OUT OF THE BLUE

Ulysse Nardin Introduces the Freak ONE Navy Blue
Ulysse Nardin Freak ONE Navy Blue

In 2001, Ulysse Nardin revolutionised mechanical watchmaking with the debut of the Freak. It was more than just a timepiece—it was a rule-breaking marvel. With no dial, no hands, and no crown, the Freak stood apart from traditional Swiss Haute Horlogerie. This design was not only a radical departure, but it also marked a pioneering moment in the use of silicon, a material that has since become a cornerstone of modern watchmaking. Silicon offered exceptional precision and reliability, and today, it is synonymous with high-performance watches.

Since then, the Freak has continued to push boundaries, captivating collectors and watch enthusiasts around the world. Its influence is undeniable, with the New York Times declaring it had “changed the face of contemporary watchmaking.” Fast forward to 2023, and the Freak ONE was unveiled at Watches and Wonders Geneva—a bold black and gold edition that quickly became a coveted piece.

Now, Ulysse Nardin continues this revolutionary legacy with the introduction of the Freak ONE Navy Blue. This new release, part of the core collection, boasts a striking deep indigo hue. The 44 mm titanium case is finished with satin-polished black DLC and features a bezel forged from Carbonium®—a material both sustainable and robust. This nod to the brand’s marine heritage is unmistakable, while the innovative design remains uncompromisingly modern.

True to the Freak’s tradition of defying convention, the Navy Blue model has no traditional hands. Instead, the flying carousel of the UN-240 Manufacture movement serves as the minute hand, while the hour is indicated by a rotating disc engraved with a sunray pattern. Powered by Ulysse Nardin’s Grinder® automatic winding system, the watch delivers a 90-hour power reserve—enhancing both performance and practicality.

Aesthetically, the Freak ONE Navy Blue is as much a work of art as it is a feat of engineering. The watch’s silhouette is further elevated by the subtle glow of Super-LumiNova® on the hour and minute indicators, ensuring readability even in low-light conditions.

The Freak ONE Navy Blue is more than just a watch—it is a testament to Ulysse Nardin’s relentless pursuit of innovation, blending tradition with cutting-edge technology.