Ulysse Nardin has an independent streak. Since releasing the original Freak in 2001, the company has redefined both high-end watchmaking and the inside-out movement layout.
Now, twenty years later, the independent streak continues. First, with the CEO taking the company private; and second, with the Freak X.
Per his interview with Hodinkee, Patrick Pruniaux will continue leading Ulysse Nardin, albeit as an independent watch company that's free from luxury conglomerate constraints. As a side note, Mr. Pruniaux's resume is impeccable. He held senior positions at TAG Heuer and helped launch the Apple Watch.
As a true watch connoisseur, however, he returned to Ulysse Nardin in 2017, and he offers these key insights into the industry:
"The very principle of high-end watchmaking is about stressing the quality of the product, the story behind it, the people putting together amazing watches. It's not about, 'buy this and it's gonna double in value in the next 12 months.'"
"I don't think the best collectors do that. They invest because they have a passion, and they take risk, as well."
Ulysse Nardin offers "something for individuals who have an appetite for great innovations."
Speaking of great innovations, that brings us to the Freak X. In a typical watch review, you read about the specifications (43mm), the aesthetics (equal parts riveting and spellbinding), and the brand's pedigree (rich).
But the Freak X is not a typical timepiece, and deserves a different approach. After all, it offers high horology for Rolex money, according to none other than ablogtowatch.
First and foremost, the Freak is, well, freaky. Starting from the outside in, the watch is cased in futuristic materials (carbon and titanium) and its open-worked dial shocks even the most jaded among us. As a wise collector once said, "the best thing about watches is that they're mechanical art you can wear." And the Freak X offers mechanical art in spades.
At first glance, it becomes clear that run-of-the-mill offerings from similarly priced brands simply can't compare. Realistically, you'd have to get well into the six-figure range of a Richard Mille to get this kind of striking uniqueness and sheer excitement.
As one reviewer put it, "every friend and relative I have shown it to, even fellow watch lovers, found it to be jaw-drop awesome." I can't help but agree, but don't just take my word for it. Other experts are similarly impressed:
"You shouldn't see this as a watch...It's more like having a laboratory on the wrist." Fresh Faces
"The Freak collection is very well known for its 3D structure, distinct look, and nobody so far has rivaled it..." Swiss Watch Gang
Overall, Ulysse Nardin is reaching the peak of its independent streak—and the Freak X is living proof.
Disclosure: Watches of Charlotte kindly provided this watch, and original photography, for review purposes
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