Ulysse Nardin Freak Vision Innovation Review

Mitch K · 2018-05-05T22:05:49Z

Explore the Ulysse Nardin Freak Vision: innovations, anchor escapement, self-winding movement, and streamlined design. See live photos and collector insights.

Mitch K

WPS member · Ulysse Nardin forum

24 replies3798 views6 photos

Mitch K shares his captivating first impressions of the Ulysse Nardin Freak Vision, a timepiece that redefines the iconic Freak series with its technological innovations and streamlined design. His post delves into the watch's unique features, including its anchor escapement and self-winding mechanism, offering a personal perspective on its appeal and wearability.

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Went to the AD today to see what treat had been sent for me to see:

I had seen pictures of the Freak Vision when it was released earlier this year. Looking at the pictures and reading about the piece I was tempted. Multiple innovations born from the Innovation 2. Technologically I was fascinated. The anchor escapement is for the first time used in a non-tourbillon movement. It is the natural progression of the escapement.

When I laid eyes on it, I was instantly captivated.

The design of the watch has been minimized. The design of the case has been simplified but is elegant. It is a not like any Freak I have seen to date. The hight of modernistic simplicity wrapped around amazing technology.

The case is a platinum and titanium combination.

It is the first Freak that is self wound with its rider system that winds in either direction.

The balance wheel is huge with an interesting counter balance system that I could not photograph as the movement was in motion before i remembered to take the picture.

The anchor escapement is still fascinating - a UN innovation (pun intended) - it is the natural progression from the first models with it - the anchor tourbillion.

The streamlined case does not raise to the heights of the previous cases. Again from all perspectives it is a different more modern Freak.

On the wrist it wears nicely. It is a Red Riding Hood watch - not too big, not too small. It wears very comfortably. It's height will allow it to fit very nicely under the cuff.

There is definitely three dimensionality of the movement. Quite different from other models that i have seen.

I must admit that I have always been true to my original Freak and have not previously seen the need to bring home another model but I do believe that this is so new and revolutionary in design and technology that it is a definite keeper.

Key Points from the Discussion

While appreciating many aspects of the new Freak Vision, some details, particularly the legibility in photos, are not to everyone's taste, though it's expected to improve with in-person experience.
The legibility of the Freak Vision can be challenging, but for collectors, the focus is often more on the technology and artistry than immediate time-telling.
The automatic movement in the Freak Vision is a point of contention for some traditional Freak enthusiasts, who prefer the manual winding of earlier models.
The Freak Vision's minimalist design, combined with its platinum and titanium case, creates a modern and almost industrial aesthetic that appeals to those open to revolutionary changes.
Despite its impressive technology and aesthetics, some collectors might find the Freak Vision wears a bit large for their wrist.
The thinner case and 'floating' hand design of the Freak Vision contribute to an 'open and airy' feel, distinguishing it from previous Freak models.

The Discussion

KMII

May 5, 2018

Great piece indeed!

I take it congratulations are in order, Mitch? You really make a great case for it - truly spectacular!

Mitch K

May 6, 2018

Thanks but not quite yet. Details being worked out but there lies my intentions.

I truly was taken by surprise. My wife grudgingly agreed that it was a very attractive piece.

KMII

May 6, 2018

So you’re two thirds there :)

It really is a very attractive piece indeed!

Mitch K

May 6, 2018

More than that. Still some discussions need to happen. [nt]

amanico

May 5, 2018

I have a problem with those automatic Freak. The shape of the " hands ". They lack character, in my opinion... And I have a problem to " swallow " the automatic movement.

Why not an automatic movement for the Freak, after all? But still... For the Freakie fan in me... Best, Nicolas

Mitch K

May 6, 2018

I thought of you when I inspected the watch and certainly when I turned it over. I was skeptical beforehand but was swayed at the sight of it.

I understand your reservation about the automatic movement but we must also be open to the new and the revolutionary. This is a minimalist piece and I do think that it works. To get another Freak made no sense to me until now. This is a clear departure from prior models. I do respect your eye and we do share similar tastes and esthetics but we shall differ at times my friend.