Introducing An Unprecedented Engineering Alliance Between Ulysse Nardin and URWERK Culminates in the UR-Freak

A technical collaboration such as the one between Ulysse Nardin and URWERK naturally results in an entirely new mechanical system. The UR-FREAK is not merely a fusion of each brand’s design DNA—it introduces a completely new movement co-developed by the two Swiss independents. Inspired by the legacy of the iconic Ulysse Nardin Freak, URWERK set out to reinterpret their signature satellite time-display system through the lens of Ulysse Nardin’s mastery of in-house silicon components. The result is a groundbreaking mechanism that has never been seen before yet fits seamlessly within both universes. The UR-FREAK represents the perfect fusion of the avant-garde Freak concept and URWERK’s innovative wandering-hours display.

The Freak tells the time by rotating its entire movement; URWERK’s satellite hours bend traditional mechanics and redefine the perception of time itself. The UR-FREAK merges these two complex systems into a single, fully integrated in-house calibre.

The case measures 44 mm and is crafted here in URWERK’s signature deep anthracite-grey sandblasted titanium. Signature URWERK design cues elevate the construction further, including three distinct fluted sections on the titanium turning bezel and caseback—a hallmark element of the brand. The titanium’s muted tones are contrasted with URWERK’s emblematic electric yellow Pantone 395 C, used to highlight the satellite pointers, minute markers, and the fitted rubber strap.

In classic Ulysse Nardin Freak fashion, the UR-FREAK does not feature a traditional crown. This absence contributes to its seamless, streamlined aesthetic. As with the Freak collection, time is adjusted via the turning bezel and caseback. A small tab at 6 o’clock—known as the “locker”—secures the bezel in place and carries a special “UR-FREAK” engraving unique to this limited edition. Lifting the locker allows the bezel to rotate freely, enabling time setting. Although the UR-FREAK is equipped with a Grinder® automatic winding system, the UN-241 movement may also be manually wound by rotating the caseback. Despite the sliding components, the case maintains a water-resistance rating of 30 meters.

Time is displayed via one of three interconnected hands. The active hand travels along the minute track on the right side of the dial. Each hand carries a domed disc that serves as a jumping-hour indicator. When the hour completes its progression along the 60-minute scale, the next hour disc takes over, and the following hand begins its journey. In true Freak fashion, the entire satellite system is linked to the regulating organ. At the center sits a silicon balance wheel and escapement assembly that rotates together with the satellite structure, completing a full revolution every three hours.

Where most movements conceal their oscillators on the back, the Freak has always showcased its beating heart on the dial side—and here, the oscillator becomes the visual centerpiece. Thanks to advanced silicon technology, it is 25% larger than standard versions. The oscillator is positioned above the rotating satellites, made possible only through simultaneous movement and dial development, a departure from traditional step-by-step watchmaking.

The self-winding mechanism is unlike any found outside Ulysse Nardin’s Freak [ONE] and Freak [S] models. Known as Grinder®, the system dramatically increases winding efficiency by converting even the smallest motion into usable energy—one of the most significant innovations in automatic winding in decades.

The watch is delivered with an integrated yellow “ballistic-textured” rubber strap and an additional integrated black rubber strap, both equipped with a sandblasted titanium deployant buckle. The Ulysse Nardin x URWERK UR-FREAK is limited to just 100 pieces. Priced at 100,000 CHF which is equivalent to 461,300 AED.

For more information visit Ulysse Nardin official website.