Ulysse Nardin Takes the Freak Back to Earth
A stone formed over millions of years is an unlikely centerpiece for one of watchmaking's most futuristic movements. But that's exactly the contrast behind the Ulysse Nardin Freak S Howlite, a new 15-piece limited edition celebrating the Swiss manufacturer's 180th anniversary and 25 years of the Freak.
The centerpiece is a natural howlite hour disc, individually cut from mineral sourced in Nova Scotia, Canada. Its white surface and irregular gray veining create a marble-like backdrop for the Freak's exposed mechanics. Each stone has its own pattern, making every example visually distinct. The watch retains the Freak's unconventional architecture: no conventional hands, dial, or crown, with the movement itself doing the work of indicating time.
Inside is Ulysse Nardin's manufacture UN-251 caliber, a 373-component automatic movement featuring a flying carousel, two inclined silicon oscillators, and DIAMonSIL escapements. The carousel completes one revolution every hour, while the movement delivers a 72-hour power reserve.
A 45mm titanium case, white textured rubber strap, and 30-meter water resistance complete the package.
Limited to 15 examples exclusively for North America and priced at $190,700 before tax, the Freak S Howlite is as much a study in materials as it is in mechanical engineering. For a watch that has spent 25 years challenging convention, its latest experiment comes from the ground beneath our feet.
What makes the Ulysse Nardin Freak S Howlite unique?
The Freak S Howlite is the first Ulysse Nardin Freak to feature natural howlite, a white mineral with distinctive gray veining. It combines this stone hour disc with the Freak's signature crownless design and exposed flying-carousel movement.
What are the specifications and price of the Freak S Howlite?
The watch features a 45mm titanium case, UN-251 automatic movement, 72-hour power reserve, and 30-meter water resistance. It is priced at $190,700 before tax and limited to 15 examples exclusively for North America.
Is the Ulysse Nardin Freak S Howlite a diving watch?
No. Although Ulysse Nardin has a long history in marine timekeeping, the Freak S Howlite is a high-end mechanical collector's watch rather than a purpose-built diving instrument. Its 30-meter water-resistance rating makes it unsuitable for diving.
Check out the full details at Ulysse Nardin.
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