Ulysse Nardin redefines modern mechanical watchmaking once again with the launch of the Freak ONE Navy Blue. Nearly a quarter-century after the groundbreaking debut of the original Freak in 2001, the independent Swiss watchmaker continues to push the boundaries of horology with this stunning new release.
Known for its unconventional design—without a dial, hands, or crown—the Freak collection revolutionized Swiss Haute Horlogerie, and the Freak ONE Navy Blue stays true to that legacy with a fresh, maritime-inspired twist.
A Disruptive Icon Returns
The original Freak was a watch that appeared, quite literally, out of the blue, transforming the world of fine watchmaking. Today, the Freak ONE Navy Blue reintroduces the essence of that first radical creation, blending avant-garde design with Ulysse Nardin’s rich heritage in marine chronometry. This latest model brings navy blue tones to the forefront, a nod to the brand’s historic ties to the sea and maritime navigation, while also highlighting its pioneering spirit in contemporary watchmaking.
Innovative Design with Marine-Inspired Details
The Freak ONE Navy Blue continues the tradition of no hands or crown, instead using the Caliber UN-240 Manufacture movement to indicate time. A flying carousel movement takes centre stage, with the tip of the rotating movement showing the minutes, while the blue rotating disc—engraved with a sunray pattern—displays the hours. The oversized silicon oscillator and balance spring add visual flair, while the DiamonSil-coated escapement (a patented material combining silicon and synthetic diamond) enhances durability and precision.
Sustainable and High-Performance Materials
The 44mm titanium case is finished with a black DLC coating, providing a sleek, modern look. The bezel is crafted from Carbonium®, an eco-friendly material introduced by Ulysse Nardin in 2019. Known for its high strength-to-weight ratio and low environmental impact, Carbonium® reinforces the brand’s commitment to sustainable innovation. The water resistance of up to 30 meters ensures that the Freak ONE Navy Blue is as robust as it is stylish.
A hallmark of Ulysse Nardin’s engineering prowess, the watch features the Grinder automatic winding system, which is four times more efficient than traditional winding mechanisms. This innovation allows the watch to build power effortlessly, offering an impressive 90-hour power reserve. The case-back setting device—a signature feature of the Freak collection—eliminates the need for a crown, further accentuating the watch’s minimalistic design.
Sustainability in Focus
In line with Ulysse Nardin’s sustainability efforts, the rubber straps on the Freak ONE Navy Blue are made with 30% recycled production waste, blending performance and environmental responsibility. This eco-conscious approach aligns with the brand’s ongoing mission to introduce sustainable practices into its manufacturing processes.
A Tribute to Marine Heritage
The navy blue hues throughout the design serve as a tribute to Ulysse Nardin’s heritage as a creator of world-class marine chronometers. From the precise mechanics to the maritime-inspired colour palette, the Freak ONE Navy Blue reflects the brand’s dual legacy of ocean exploration and disruptive innovation.
Pricing and Availability
The Freak ONE Navy Blue retails for SGD 97,600, including tax, and will be available at authorized Ulysse Nardin retailers worldwide.
