Ulysse Nardin Freak "Black Out" Watch For Only Watch 2009

by Ariel Adams (RSS feed)
Aug 1st 2009 at 12:02PM

The gentle changes to the Ulysse Nardin Freak transforming it into a one-off unique timepiece for the Only Watch 2009 auction are subtle, but make for a pleasant reminder that the Freak is a great watch. A few years ago Ulysse Nardin released the Freak which showcased a number of technological firsts including broad use of silicium for various parts of the movement including the tourbillon escapement. The watch blends the movement and dial for impressively legible dial that turns the balance wheel and escapement, including a gear train into the minute hand. The watch is a fantastic design and offers a great view into watch mechanics while seeing the time. Is it just me, or do the "spokes" in the balance wheel look like small Eiffel Towers?

Another interesting feature of the watch is that is does not have a crown. This is not the only crownless mechanical timepiece out there, but it is one of just a few. Winding the manually wound movement and setting the time is done via the bezel. The "carrousel" tourbillon movement has a seven day power reserve. This particular Freak watch for Only Watch 2009 is done in black with red toned hands, and a black alligator strap - while the case is done in 18k white gold.

Ariel Adams publishes the luxury watch review site aBlogtoRead.com.

Tags: freak, only watch 2009, OnlyWatch2009, timepiece, ulysse nardin, UlysseNardin, watch