Ulysse Nardin and Gumball 3000 collaborate on a new watch

What is the Ulysse Nardin Freak [X Gumball 3000] Edition 2?

It is the second collaboration between Ulysse Nardin, the Le Locle, Switzerland based watch brand and Gumball 3000, a 3000-mile supercar rally that features a different itinerary each year. It is based on the unconventional Freak, the first mechanical watch to incorporate silicon components.

What is the Gumball 3000?

“More than an endurance drive, Gumball 3000 is a lifestyle where performance meets creativity, and precision meets spontaneity. That same forward-driven mindset finds expression in the Freak X Gumball 3000 – Edition 2, a timepiece defined by radical architecture, mechanical innovation, and uncompromising performance. On the road or on the wrist, it reflects a shared commitment to pushing boundaries and moving forward without pause.”

Does the Freak have a dial?

Not in the conventional sense. However, the hour disc (beneath the movement) is made from Carbonium® “an ultra-high-performance material emblematic of Ulysse Nardin’s long-standing expertise in advanced materials. Crafted from ultra-light carbon fibre upcycled from the aerospace industry, Carbonium® is inspired by patterns of Damascus steel.” Ulysse Nardin is renowned for its commitment to sustainability by incorporating recycled and upcycled materials.

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What kind of movement powers the Freak?

It is powered by Calibre UN-230, a Manufacture automatic movement that drives the hours and minutes. It is a “flying carrousel movement rotating around its own axis.” It measures 34.5 mm, comprises 214 parts and 21 jewels, beats at a luxurious rate of 3 Hz or 21,600 vph, and has a power reserve of 72 hours. Its oversized balance wheel, balance spring, escapement wheel, and anchor are made from silicon.

What are its case and strap features?

Its case and case side parts are made from black DLC titanium with a satin finish. Left side features a personalised side plate with the serial number in orange. It measures 43 mm (diameter) * 11 mm (perceived height) / 13.78 mm (overall height). Dial side and black DLC titanium caseback feature sapphire crystals. Water resistant up to 50 metres. Watch comes with a black open worked matt rubber-coated strap featuring orange inserts and stitching.

“The Freak X Gumball 3000 – Edition 2 expresses through the unmistakable DNA of the Gumball 3000 Rally, driven by movement, energy, and visual intensity. Its bold black and orange palette draws from Gumball 3000’s instantly recognisable codes, translating a culture of speed, individuality, and forward momentum into a distinctly high-tech horological expression.”

What do we think?

The unconventional, revolutionary, and iconic Freak is an excellent canvas for various interpretations and collaborations. The Freak [X Gumball 3000] Edition 2 is a great example, featuring a bold design and innovative materials, not unlike many of the supercars participating in the Gumball 3000. It highlights the avant-garde nature of Ulysse Nardin. 

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Additional Details

Name: Freak [X Gumball 3000] Edition 2

Reference: 2303-270LE-2B-GUM/3A

Price: Swiss Franc (CHF) 37,700 (8.1% VAT included)

Warranty: 5 years

Limited edition of 150 pieces. I think priority will be given to Gumball 3000 participants before Ulysse Nardin considers broader enquiries. Please visit both the Ulysse Nardin and Gumball 3000 websites and Instagram pages for more information and to register interest.