The "Freak," which made a huge impact on the watchmaking world with its original mechanism that displays the time using the movement itself, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year. To mark this milestone, Ulysse Nardin has introduced a new generation of the popular "Freak X." Equipped with a new micro-rotor movement, it achieves an even more compact and slim proportion, and for the first time in the series, an all-stainless steel model is also available. With 100m water resistance, its usability for everyday use has been further improved. This new masterpiece is a reimagining of the revolutionary flying carousel model to better suit an active lifestyle.
The Freak X has been redesigned in every detail, along with a smaller diameter. Previously featuring a modular titanium case, it now boasts a monobloc construction and an all-stainless steel model equipped with an integrated metal bracelet. The stainless steel is made from 80% recycled materials, further enhancing its active and sporty feel. Automatic movement (Cal. UN-232). 27 jewels. 21,600 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (41mm diameter, 10.35mm thickness). 100m water resistance. ¥6,765,000 (including tax).
Photographs by Takeshi Hoshi (estrellas)
Edited and written by Iwao Yoshida
Edited & Text by Iwao Yoshida
[Article published in the July 2026 issue of Kronos Japan]
The smaller diameter highlights its advanced features.
2026 marks two anniversaries for Ulysse Nardin: the 180th anniversary of the brand's founding and the 25th anniversary of its signature collection, "Freak."
To celebrate such a special year, the maison unveiled the "Super Freak" at Watches & Wonders Geneva 2026. This model, which incorporates two flying tourbillons connected by a differential gear into the flying carousel mechanism that makes the Freak what it is, and also features a seconds display for the first time in the series, can truly be called the culmination of the series.
However, that wasn't the only piece celebrating the anniversary. In parallel with the development of the Super Freak, the maison's engineers and designers had also been working on a complete redesign project for the popular Freak collection, which was an adaptation of the Freak for everyday use, for over two years. This summer, the reborn "Freak X" was finally released.
First, let's look at the new in-house automatic movement, Cal.UN-232. Thanks to the adoption of a micro-rotor, this movement is more compact than the previous UN-230, and for the first time in the Freak X, it features a diamond-sil escapement. This high-tech surface treatment, which acts as a protective shield, dramatically increases the durability of the escapement, which is subjected to over 250 million shocks per year. Of course, accuracy and efficiency have also been significantly improved.
The case design has also been revised to match the new movement. The Freak X, which debuted in 19, features the smallest case in the Freak series, with a diameter of 43mm and a thickness of 10.7mm (13.92mm including the crystal), but the new model has an even more compact proportion with a diameter of 41mm and a thickness of 10.35mm (13.6mm including the crystal).
The case materials and structure have also been completely redesigned. While the previous Freak X had a basically modular titanium case, the new model features a stainless steel case made from 80% recycled steel or a 100% rose gold case, and the structure has been changed to a monobloc design. This increases robustness and minimizes the transmission of mechanical vibrations.
This model features a gray dial that complements the stainless steel case, creating a cohesive, monochromatic look. The stainless steel is made from 80% recycled materials. While it appears chic from a distance, the hand-beveled hour and minute markers and oscillator bridge clearly highlight the architectural structure of the Freak X. Automatic movement (Cal. UN-232). 27 jewels. 21,600 vibrations/hour. Power reserve of approximately 72 hours. Stainless steel case (41mm diameter, 10.35mm thickness). 100m water resistance. 6,556,000 yen (including tax).
(Left) Freak X Gold
This model, with its striking contrast of rose gold and lustrous black, elevates the Flying Carousel to an even more refined level. Its smaller size makes it ideal for formal occasions, subtly showcasing exceptional taste. Automatic movement (Cal. UN-232). 27 jewels. 21,600 vibrations/hour. Power reserve approximately 72 hours. 18K rose gold case (41mm diameter, 10.35mm thickness). 100m water resistance. 10,175,000 yen (including tax).
Of course, other details have also been subtly upgraded, increasing the overall sophistication. In particular, the sapphire crystal glass now features a glass box design that covers almost the entire bezel, and despite the smaller diameter, it gives a much stronger sense of immersion in the dial. The movement of the flying carousel also feels more dynamic.
Furthermore, the adoption of a screw-down crown has improved water resistance from 50m to 100m. Combined with the new, more durable movement, the Freak X is now more suitable for an active lifestyle. With the introduction of a quick-release strap exchange system, a total of nine different straps and bracelets are available, making it easy to change the look to match the occasion and outfit.
The Freak X series was created to transform the Freak, a symbol of Ulysse Nardin's advanced technology and innovation, into an "everyday complication," and this challenge has already garnered significant support from enthusiasts worldwide. The reborn Freak X, with its elevated practicality and aesthetic appeal, is sure to further increase the number of people who appreciate this premium watch with its unique and original flying carousel mechanism.
