The iconic Freak One awarded at GPHG 2023
The jury of the Grand Prix of Horlogerie of Geneva (GPHG), the most prestigious event in the watch industry calendar, has selected the Freak ONE as the winner of the ‘iconic’ category. To be nominated, the watch must stem from an emblematic collection or be a model that has had a lasting influence on watchmaking history and the market for more than 20 years.
Ulysse Nardin, the independent and integrated Haute Horlogerie Manufacture, is proud of this major recognition that awards the reach the Freak has had in the industry in terms of technical competences, materials, and aesthetics.
THE FREAK : A 21ST CENTURY ICON
Introduced in 2001 as nothing ever designed before, the Freak changed the entire industry’s perspective, redefining today’s watchmaking norms. This timepiece was released under the headship of Rolf Schnyder, the Manufacture’s visionary owner, and genius watchmaker Ludwig Oechslin. Like its bold name, a synonym of unusual and unexpected, the Freak symbolises unfettered creativity, and the desire to explore new horizons.
But what makes it a revolutionary icon? With no crown, no dial, and no hands, the Freak marked the first instance that a movement was deconstructed to express time on its own. This new, mechanicscelebratory language of watchmaking, still unrivalled today, introduced the idea of a totally transparent watch, revealing its mechanism.
FREAK ONE: THE QUINTESSENCE OF THE FREAK
Just like the first Freak of 2001, the Freak ONE stands out as a disruptive, cutting-edge timepiece. With this addition to the unique Freak collection, Ulysse Nardin combines and highlights the most essential and celebrated designs and technological advances of the Freak over its 22-year history.
The Freak ONE still adopts the model’s three iconic characteristics: no crown, no dial, and no hands.
THE ICONIC FREAK [ONE]
Once again, well beyond the watch, the Freak embodies that specific mindset that breaks free from conventions and brings a singular vision, a twist. It represents all those who choose their own path and stand out from the crowd towards unconventional perspectives and ultimate freedom. This prestigious GPHG award recognises and honours the unrivalled technical prowess, the renewed visual richness, and the unmistakable design of a true icon who never ceased being proudly Freak.
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