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Introducing the Ulysse Nardin Freak X Razzle Dazzle
News
Introducing the Ulysse Nardin Freak X Razzle Dazzle
The Low-Down
The Freak X by Ulysse Nardin was introduced to us one fresh morning in January 2019 during the Geneva Salon International de la Haute Horlogerie. The watch was shown to the world as the evolution of the Freak concept with its signature revolving movement, but with a simpler case, a conventional crown and simplified mechanics via an automatic winding system.
And what about the dial design? The “razzle dazzle” pattern used for the watch is a type of ship camouflage decoration that was used extensively in the First World War and, to a lesser extent, the Second World War. The purpose of this visual effect, which also drew inspiration from wildlife camouflage, was to confuse enemy observers, making it difficult for them to estimate the vessel’s distance, speed and direction. Of course, in the case of the Freak X, the avant-garde “razzle dazzle” tapisserie serves to highlight the watch’s edgy carousel movement. The dial remains easy to read, thanks to the watch’s 43mm sizing, and the conventional crown is similarly user-friendly.
IMHO
All in all, the Freak X Razzle Dazzle is a cool and fascinating watch and I appreciate the historical link to the naval and maritime theme that underpins all of Ulysse Nardin’s watches.
Since it was released in 2001, the Ulysse Nardin Freak has managed to remain audacious, capturing our imagination with its disruptive design which has been receiving regular and fresh updates. But when it was first introduced in 2019, the Freak X caused a bit of commotion among some members of the watch community who denounced the popularization of the famed Freak concept with the uber cool, off the beaten track movement based on Carole Forestier-Kasapi’s award-winning design.
Tech Specs
Movement: Self-winding caliber UN-230; 72-hour power reserve
Functions: Hours and minutes read off a flying carrousel movement that rotates on its own axis
Case: 43mm; titanium with black DLC; water resistance
Strap: Black rubber leather or white calfskin, both with “point de bride” stitching
Price: CHF 25,900
Availability: Limited to 30 pieces