Ulysse Nardin

Launched in 2001, the Ulysse Nardin Freak fundamentally redefined the boundaries of contemporary watchmaking. Helmed by then-CEO Rolf Schnyder and visionary watchmaker Dr. Ludwig Oechslin, the Freak was a revolutionary response to the traditional constructs of horology. With no crown, no dial, and no conventional hands, it introduced not only a bold aesthetic but also a new mechanical philosophy.

The Reference 020-88, cased in white gold, showcases the innovative “Carrousel-Tourbillon” movement, which rotates on itself once per hour and acts as the minute hand. The central bridge carries the gear train, balance wheel, and escapement in a mesmerizing orbit around the dial. The movement is wound by rotating the caseback, and time is set by turning the bezel—eliminating the need for a conventional crown entirely.

Technically ambitious, the Freak also marked one of the first uses of silicon in a mechanical movement, significantly reducing friction and enhancing precision. This pioneering use of avant-garde materials placed Ulysse Nardin at the forefront of modern horological innovation.

The design is as visually striking as it is conceptually bold. The dial-less configuration offers a full view of the mechanical artistry in motion, framed by a minimalist white gold case that underscores the brand’s forward-thinking elegance.

Now considered a landmark in 21st-century watchmaking, the Freak not only challenged conventions but also paved the way for new generations of experimental timepieces. The present example in white gold remains a compelling testament to Ulysse Nardin’s role as one of the most daring innovators in modern haute horlogerie.