The latest Freak X model features a crystallized dial made from fractal-like crystals, created by slowly depositing and crystallizing ruthenium, a platinum group metal. The contrast with the unified black exterior makes for a striking watch.
Edited by Yuto Hosoda (Chronos-Japan)
[Article published in the July 2025 issue of Kronos Japan]
Ulysse Nardin "Freak X Crystarium"
Ulysse Nardin has announced the Freak X Crystallium, featuring a rotating hour disc made from their proprietary material, Crystallium. Crystallium is made from ruthenium, a platinum group metal with a unique brilliance and strength, but the manufacturing process is crucial. Crystallium is created by slowly depositing and crystallizing ruthenium over several days, much like frost on glass. Due to the difficulty of accumulating the deposition rate and achieving stable crystallization, it took several years to develop the manufacturing process. The resulting Crystallium has a fractal-like crystalline pattern, giving each watch its own unique personality and expressive reflections. However, due to the high manufacturing difficulty, only 50 pieces will be sold worldwide.
This new model is eye-catching, featuring a rose gold-like color and a distinctive crystallized pattern that creates irregular light reflections. It is available with an alligator strap or a rubber strap with a fabric-like texture. Automatic movement (Cal. UN-230). 21 jewels. 21,600 vph. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Ti case (43mm diameter, 13.92mm thick). Water resistant to 50m. Limited to 50 pieces worldwide. Price: 6,666,000 yen (tax included).
The key to the Freak X's uniqueness is its automatic movement, Caliber UN-230. Its most distinctive feature is its flying carousel time display, with the hour disc rotating alongside the hour hand fixed to its surface. The ring-shaped internal gear, essential for this power transmission, is incorporated into the dial design along with the supporting beam. In this model, the internal gear, wheel train, and display hands are all black. The titanium case and strap are also black, giving the watch a refined appearance, highlighting the rose gold-like hue of the Crystallium, its sparkling reflections, and its three-dimensionality. What really catches the eye is the silicon escapement, the only one in this model that reflects light in a blue hue. Reflecting Ulysse Nardin's technological background as a pioneer in adopting silicon, the silicon escapement boasts a unique design, even down to the shape of the escape wheel.
