In Real Time

Ulysse Nardin includes technical innovations introduced in last year’s conceptual Innovision II into its new Freak Vision

like most concept cars and watches, Ulysse Nardin’s Innovision II from 2017 looked like something designed for the future. It debuted no less than 10 innovations ranging from improvements made to the escapement, winding system and even the hands on the dial — very cool inventions that most thought would never be put into play until years later. While there are still no plans to commercialise Innovision 2, Ulysse Nardin has offered the second-best option: Freak Vision, a serially produced watch with some of these wonderful features.

For starters, the Grinder self-winding system finds its way into the new watch. Composed of ball bearings, ratchets and a two-stage satellite reduction gear, the Grinder automatic winding system is more than just a new and super-efficient automatic system. It is the first automatic movement to be fitted into a Freak since its debut in 2001.

Ensuring the watch runs efficiently is the silicon balance wheel that is bonded with nickel mass elements instead of gold masses. The reduction in weight increases the balance wheel’s efficiency and improves its power reserve capabilities. The addition of silicon micro blades stabilises amplitude and boosts the watch’s accuracy.

Taking this even further is the Ulysse Nardin Anchor Escapement, a constant force mechanism unveiled in 2014. Made entirely of silicon, it features a circular frame with a suspended pallet fork that moves without friction, supported by two microscopic blades mounted perpendicular to each other to ensure stability.

Aesthetically, the watch retains its signature feature. The baguette-shaped movement is still there, rotating around its own axis once every hour and functioning as a minute hand. What’s new is a 3D upper bridge that is inspired by a boat’s hull, as well as a slimmer redesigned case complete with a box-domed sapphire crystal. Offered in a 45mm platinum, titanium and rubber case, it has a sapphire crystal case back that offers an unobstructed view of the calibre UN-250.