Ulysse Nardin’s Freak X Enamel Seddiqi Shines On A Canvas Of Innovation

The Ulysse Nardin Freak X Enamel Seddiqi is a masterclass in artistic watchmaking, blending state-of-the-art horology with traditional métiers d’art techniques. Crafted as a tribute to the long-standing partnership between Ulysse Nardin and Middle East's leading watch retailer Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons, this 30-piece limited edition speaks to watch connoisseurs who appreciate both high craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology.

At the heart of the Freak X Enamel Seddiqi is a unique reinterpretation of the iconic Freak, a timepiece that first debuted in 2001 and redefined watchmaking standards with its innovative, silicon-based movement and radical “no hands, no dial” design. In this edition, the watch’s design includes a striking “Yas Blue” enamel hour disc, crafted by expert artisans at Ulysse Nardin’s Donzé Cadrans Manufacture in Le Locle, Switzerland. The deep electric blue enamel captures the essence of the Gulf of Arabia’s twilight, a nod to the cultural ties this timepiece celebrates.

The creation of the hour disc is an intricate process that merges guilloché engraving with traditional enamelwork. First, a guilloché pattern is engraved onto a gold disc, adding a contemporary, three-dimensional texture. This is followed by the meticulous application of four layers of water-based enamel, each layer being finely ground and transformed into a paste before application. Each enamel layer is then fired in a kiln at 800 degrees Celsius, a process that risks bubbling or cracking if done incorrectly. Finally, a translucent fondant enamel is applied, giving the disc a glossy finish admired by métiers d’art enthusiasts. The complexity and high risk of this technique make the Freak X Enamel Seddiqi a rare masterpiece.

Inside, the watch houses the Caliber UN-230 Manufacture, which combines Ulysse Nardin’s in-house automatic movement with a flying carousel tourbillon. The movement’s oversized silicon oscillator and silicon escapement deliver precision, while the carousel itself doubles as the minutes indicator, rotating fully every hour. Meanwhile, a pointer on the enamel hour disc marks the hours.

This intricate movement and artistic dial sit within a 43 mm grey titanium case. The watch is paired with a black ballistic rubber strap, stitched in white and fastened by a titanium folding buckle, underscoring its bold yet refined aesthetic. Exclusively available at Ahmed Seddiqi & Sons in the UAE, this limited-edition watch is both a tribute to craftsmanship and a collectible piece for horology aficionados.