Despite looking spectacularly complex for a watch that displays only the hours and minutes, the Freak X is actually the most “basic” of the Freak family. The original Freak was first revealed in 2001, shocking the horological world with its lack of dial, hands, and crown. By mounting the gear train on top of the mainspring, the entire baguette-shaped movement could double as the minute hand, while an additional rotating plate driven by the barrel underneath indicated the hours. Time was adjusted by rotating the bezel, and the movement was wound by rotating the caseback. It was also the first watch ever to use silicon components. As with any icon, the Freak underwent numerous evolutions over the years, such as the addition of horological goodies like a tourbillon, date, and automatic winding, to name but a few. The Freak’s outrageous design made it the perfect laboratory for Ulysse Nardin’s wildest dreams.
Source: CNA
