Urwerk and Ulysse Nardin rarely cross paths, yet when they do, something unexpected happens. The UR-FREAK stands as proof. It blends the hallmarks of both houses into a single machine whose mechanics feel closer to choreography than engineering. What began as the Freak’s silicon-driven carousel now carries Urwerk’s signature wandering satellite hours, merged into one fully integrated calibre built from more than 150 new parts.
The display is a study in motion. Three connected hands orbit the dial, each carrying a domed disc that jumps to the next hour. The active hand glides along the minute track on the right. Once it reaches the end of the 60-minute arc, the hour disc switches and the next hand begins its run from zero. This constant relay creates an unbroken loop of time, powered by a carousel that spins in sync with the regulating organ. At the centre sits a silicon balance wheel and escapement assembly that rotates with the satellite system, completing a full turn every three hours. The shifting orientation works much like a tourbillon, reducing positional errors through perpetual movement.
Its case comes from the Freak ONE, measuring 44 mm and forged here in Urwerk’s unmistakable deep anthracite sandblasted titanium. The brand’s design language continues in the sharp fluting on the turning bezel and caseback, as well as the electric-yellow Pantone 395 C accents scattered across the satellite pointers, minute markers, and rubber strap. There is no crown. Instead, a small tab at 6 o’clock locks the bezel in place. Lift it, rotate the bezel, and the time adjusts. Winding follows Freak tradition too. The Grinder automatic mechanism captures energy from even the slightest wrist motion through a rotor attached to a four-blade frame, doubling the angular stroke. Manual winding remains possible by rotating the caseback.
Inside, the UN-241 movement uses Ulysse Nardin’s DIAMonSIL treatment, a diamond-silicon coating that provides extreme resistance to wear and shock. It beats at 3 Hz with a generous 90-hour power reserve, all while maintaining 30-metre water resistance despite the sliding bezel architecture. Also be sure to check Top 25 Luxury Watch Brands for Men.
The UR-FREAK (ref. 2413-500LE-2A-UR/3B) is limited to 100 pieces and priced at CHF 100,000 before taxes.
