SIHH 2018
ULYSSE
NARDIN
FREAK VISION
With its new Freak Vision, Ulysse Nardin debuts the first automatic watch in
the Freak Collection. The new watch expands the already advanced concepts
found in last year’s InnoVision 2 Concept Watch. But new this year are a host
of cutting edge features, including a silicium balance wheel with nickel mass
elements and stabilizing micro-blades and a new case design made even
thinner by a box-domed crystal.
Time is still indicated in the usual Freak manner (via the movement itself ) as
it rotates around its own axis. But look again, and you’ll see that there’s a prom-
inent new bridge made to look like a ship’s hull. The new box-domed sapphire
allows for a thinner middle and bezel, and the entire 45mm case is new.
HERE’S WHAT ELSE IS NEW
ON THIS YEAR’S FREAK:
The Grinder Automatic Winding System takes advantage of small wrist move-
ments, which gives the automatic system twice the torque – like having four
pedals on a bike instead of two – while a flexible guidance mechanism drasti-
cally limits friction.
Also new is the Ulysse Nardin Anchor Escapement based on the principle
114 | INTERNATIONAL WATCH | SPRING 2018
of flexible mechanisms. Ingeniously, it exploits the elasticity of flat springs
and presents a constant force escapement made of silicon. The pallet fork is
fixed in the center and supported in space on two minuscule blade springs.
Mounted perpendicular to each other, they are subjected to a bending force
that curves and keeps them in a bi-stable state. The result is a positive energy
balance that maintains the oscillations of the balance wheel at a constant rate.
DIVER DEEP DIVE
The firm’s latest 46mm dive watch is powered by the in-house caliber UN-320
(with its silicon lever and escape wheel and balance spring.) The limited
edition of 300 pieces includes a removable titanium guard on the crown, a
helium release valve at 9 o’clock and an unusual rubber strap. The strap has
an expandable element that adjusts to changes in wrist size during dives
caused by the compression of a neoprene diving suit. The watch’s case, water
resistant to 1,000 meters, is made of titanium with cut-edged horns and a
large bezel with 12-notched teeth. Fifteen hammerhead sharks adorn the dial
while another is stamped on the caseback. A bright red one swims on the side
of the crown guard.