Ulysse Nardin Freak S

Ulysse Nardin has created a movement that joins two oscillators with a differential that can average the rates of both. This is a huge technical challenge that is ordinarily a statement of timekeeping precision – but when it comes to the Freak, it is certain the main concern is visual spectacle. And indeed, the new Freak S (CHF130,000 and limited to 75 pieces) is assuredly such. Its two oscillators, in shimmering dark blue that gives away their silicon nature, are inclined at 20 degrees in opposite directions – this lends a dramatic and three-dimensional nature to the Freak’s signature carousel movement. Ever a large watch – the Freak S has a ceramic, titanium and rose gold case that is 45mm in diameter – the increased size of the movement also more effectively fills the space of the dial. The dial base is in aventurine, suggesting a starry background and that the ever-spinning, ever-ticking movement is a spaceship.