Urwerk and Ulysse Nardin Collaborate on the UR-Freak Watch
Two of the most avant-garde design philosophies in independent watchmaking have come together—and with great success.
Urwerk and Ulysse Nardin have joined forces for the first time to create the UR-Freak watch, perfectly blending the most distinctive design languages of both independent watch brands. Following the launch of the Freak S Enamel last October, I spoke with Jean-Christophe Sabatier, Chief Product Officer of Ulysse Nardin, who hinted at a major announcement before Dubai Watch Week. Now, it’s finally here. I completely understand his excitement: this watch combines classic elements of the Ulysse Nardin Freak with the features of Urwerk’s wandering time satellite watches, perfectly showcasing the strengths of both brands.
The dial is, naturally, a perfect embodiment of orderly chaos. At its center is a silicon oscillator 25% larger than the standard Freak version, paired with Urwerk’s signature satellite hour display. All components are mounted on a three-hour rotating dial. The 44mm diameter case is crafted from sandblasted titanium, and the fluted design elements on the bezel echo Urwerk’s design language. Adhering to the classic Freak design, this fashion men watch has no crown; time is set via a rotating bezel secured by a “UR-Freak” clasp at 6 o’clock.
This watch is powered by the fully integrated in-house UN-241 movement, developed specifically for this timepiece by Ulysse Nardin. While the UR-Freak features the Grinder automatic winding system, it can also be manually wound by rotating the case back.
This watch is available with either a ballistic-textured yellow rubber strap or a black integrated rubber strap, both fitted with a titanium folding clasp.
Ulysse Nardin has had a fruitful year, and this collaboration feels like a natural progression, continuing that momentum—daring to take risks and partner with a brand that is essentially a competitor to create a truly new piece. I had the privilege of seeing the UR-Freak in person last week, and the fusion of the two design languages is far more seamless than you might imagine. If you have the chance, you must see it for yourself. Also, I must say, if you have a smaller wrist like me, even with its 44mm diameter, it will look even more delicate.
This is the first collaboration between Urwerk and Ulysse Nardin, but I hope it won’t be the last. Ulysse Nardin replica watches has accumulated decades of experience in material and movement innovation, while Urwerk is known for its unique timekeeping methods. There seems to be a huge synergy between the two, allowing them to explore future collaborations. I’m very much looking forward to their next collaboration and seeing what surprises they will bring.
Brand: Ulysse Nardin x Urwerk
Model: UR-Freak
Reference Number: 2413-500LE-2A-UR/3B
Diameter: 44 mm
Thickness: 12 mm
Case Material: Sandblasted titanium
Dial Color: Open-faced satellite display, central silicon oscillator
Markings: Rotating satellite hour markers; minute markers on the right side of the dial
Luminescence: Bridges, satellite hands, and minute markers are coated with yellow Super-LumiNova luminescent material
Water Resistance: 30 meters
Strap/Bracelet: Integrated yellow ballistic rubber strap or integrated black rubber strap, both with titanium folding clasp
Sports
Movement Model: UN-241
Functions: Hours, minutes; three-hour rotating satellite hour display
Power Reserve: 90 hours
Winding Method: Automatic winding (whirling wheel system); manual winding (case back)
Frequency: 3 Hz (21,600 vibrations per hour)
Jewel Count: 25