Ulysse Nardin

I have a chance to purchase a brand new rose gold Freak I from an AD a a very fair price. Should I pass because of service issues and non locking crown and wait and pay more for a II? I'm really torn ,any input would be great. In addition can you actually read the time on the watch for those that have them. Thanks!

watches reached a watershed period between (1) tools and a yet undefined category of collectables, and (2) a new parameter of the "engine" that drives the timepeices.

Before the RM brand became "tech", the freak was first with very high tech..silicium, micro engineered wheels with tolerances of a new level, a case construct that was radical, a pivoting movement carrying the balance, a case that became a part of the "balance bridge"..and even more.

The Freak 1 with its original escapement is a legend. It may give some problems, but well within repair capability of the factory...its a bit like buying a McLaren or a Pagani.

The Freak 2 is more refined, and would be almost double the price.

In such a volatile world, the freak 1 would be more desirable on the long run...more of a conversation piece.

My Freak 1 runs very well indeed for many years now.

Whether you opt for a I or II you will not be disappointed - both are fantastic watches of the highest order - I speak as an owner of both. They are unique in their own way, the Freak I being the first to use an entirely new drive system, the Freak II being a re-invention and improvement of the same - one being the unique Dual direct escapement while the other uses the dual indirect escapement. Reading the time in a split second is not the reason to buy a Freak - simply looking at the hands will hold your gaze - reading the time is not an issue unless you need to know it to split seconds and then this is the wrong watch. Enjoy your new Freak, whichever you choose you will be buying a piece of 'history in time'.