Ulysse Nardin Freak X 43mm Blue LE 2303-270.1/03

For those unaware, the Freak from Ulysse Nardin is often considered to be one of the most influential modern timepieces. Envisioned by the mind of ‘Queen of Complications’ Carole Forestier, led by visionary CEO Rolf Schnyder, and perfected with the help of genius-watchmaker Ludwig Oechslin. Utilising a new ‘Dual Direct Escapement’ with silicone escapement wheels, a first for the industry, it had no dial, no hands and no crown – absolutely bananas, especially when you realise this was in 2001.

The Freak has continually evolved throughout the past two decades, and in 2019 the Freak X was born. Now featuring a crown, conventional rotor and a scaled down case size of 43mm, it was to become the most accessible Freak as with all that technology and innovation packed in the series, they’ve never been what you could call accessible in terms of pricing. The X changed that, and allowed more watch loving folks to access the beauty and innovation of then Freak series.

Housed within this spectacularly crafted and detailed 43mm titanium case is the UN-230 Calibre, of which the rest of the watch is built around. It has no dial and hands as we traditionally know them - the central bridge acts as a minute hand and one of the wheels indicates the hours, and it’s a feast for the eyes every time you look down at your wrist. It also features 50m of water resistance, more than any other Freak before it, and is extremely comfortable on the wrist.

This particular example was purchased in November 2020 and presents in TZ near mint condition. The only real mark of note is a light surface scratch on the upper left lug, and besides that there are only extremely small hints of use. Please see images for full condition details.

Comes with shipping box, outer box, inner box, warranty booklet card dated 05.11.2020, instructions, warranty booklet, card holder, UN perforated strap and Watch Vault cleaning cloth.

It may not be for everyone, but if you’ve always loved the Freak series like us here at Watch Vault HQ, but found them compromised by size, price, wearability or water resistance then the X is the piece for you. RRP on these is $32,950 AUD, get this near-new example for a healthy discount and experience some properly innovative watchmaking from some of the greatest minds in the industry.

Brand: Ulysse Nardin

Model #: Freak X Blue 2303-270.1/03

Year: 2020

Case Material: Titanium

Case details: 43mm

Strap: Steel

Movement: UN-230

Paraphernalia: Shipping box, outer box, inner box, warranty booklet card dated 05.11.2020, instructions, warranty booklet, card holder, UN perforated strap and Watch Vault cleaning cloth.

TZ Grading: Near Mint

Watch Vault utilises the TZ grading system. Please see here for details.