Ten years ago Ulysse-Nardin unveiled what is arguably its greatest timepiece, the Freak. This carrousel tourbillon with the movement sitting on top of the massive mainspring has become synonymous with UN and its late leader, Rolf Schnyder. 



For the Freak’s 10th anniversary, UN has created a 20 piece limited edition Freak in rose gold in collaboration with its Singapore retailer The Hour Glass, the first time UN has created a special Freak series for a specific retailer. The 10th anniversary Freak is in rose gold, with diamonds on the hour and minute hands. For striking contrast the movement has a black finish, with rose gold screws on the carrousel.

To match the case, the numerals are rose gold, deposited on the clear sapphire ring around the movement.

Just above the balance wheel the twin silicon escapement wheels of the patented Dual Direct escapement are visible.

The locking plate for the bezel is engraved, unnecessarily, “Freak”.

On the back the huge mainspring, which gives it a seven day power reserve, is visible through a porthole. Turning the case back ring winds the mainspring directly.

The case diameter is 44.5 mm, giving this a striking presence on the wrist. To me this looks better than the Blue Phantom Freak and the Diavolo. The retail price is S$175,700, which is about US$142,000. – SJX