Ulysse Nardin Freak Cruiser vs Diavolo Phantom Comparison

amanico · 2014-08-20T07:43:19Z

Compare Ulysse Nardin Freak Cruiser vs Diavolo Phantom: case size, design, and complications. Which Freak iteration is superior?

amanico

WPS member · Ulysse Nardin forum

34 replies11128 views0 photos

Amanico initiates a compelling comparison between two distinct iterations of Ulysse Nardin's groundbreaking Freak series: the Freak Cruiser and the Freak Diavolo Phantom. This post, rich with comparative photography, delves into the aesthetic and horological differences that define each model. It invites collectors to weigh in on which version best captures the innovative spirit of the Freak, considering factors like case size, design elements, and movement sophistication.

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Let's see some pictures of these 2 versions in the same thread...

Two very different versions.

If the Freak Diavolo has something from the original Freak, the Cruiser is a totally different Watch, size, shape of the case / lugs, bezel, dial, hands...

The Diavolo is a big Watch, the Cruiser is even bigger. Though, the difference when you read the size of each of these versions, is far from being enormous ( 0, 5 mm, 45 mm for the Cruiser / 44, 5 mm for the Diavolo ), but in the real, the Cruiser is more bulky.

I had the possibility to take pictures of these 2 versions, in the same metal, in rose gold.

Cruiser:

Diavolo Phantom:

I long thought about that, but the first offcial pictures of the Cruiser let a curious taste in my mouth... The in the real experience didn't make me change my mind.

I much prefer the case, dial, ans bezel of the Diavolo. I find they have more character than the Cruiser.

Of course, this is a matter of taste, and it is tough to compare a normal Freak to a Freak Diavolo which is horologically more sophisticated. And we don't have to forget that difference.

One thing I love a lot on the Cruiser is the hands. They are somptuous. Really somptuous, with this marine Anchor shape.

What is your opinion, on those versions?

Best,

Nicolas.

Key Points from the Discussion

The Ulysse Nardin Freak Cruiser and Diavolo require trying them on to truly assess fit, as their complications can be entrancing but size is a critical factor.
While the Diavolo Phantom is horologically superior due to its extra complication, the Cruiser's evolution with its new case, hands, and 'airy' dial offers a fresher, more harmonious aesthetic for new Freak owners.
The Diavolo is considered an upgrade (Freak ver 3.0) with its advanced movement, including an orbital tourbillon, while the Cruiser is seen as a variation (Freak ver 2.xx) of the original design, making them distinct in class and appeal.
For existing Freak owners, the Diavolo's advanced movement might be more appealing, whereas first-time buyers might lean towards the Cruiser's fresher design.
The Diavolo's orbital flying tourbillon is a 'cooler' movement, and its case hints, like the bezel, remind collectors of the original Freak, making it a preferred choice for some.
The Cruiser's case is significantly chunkier than the original Freak, which can be a shock for those accustomed to the first generation's dimensions.

The Discussion

Ares501 - Mr Green

Aug 20, 2014

You know...

I'm rose gold black dial guy but this just doesn't work with Freak Sadly In this particular case Cruiser is better Love the way you captured depth of dial Lovely Sincerely Damjan

amanico

Aug 20, 2014

Thanks for your feedback, Damjan. [nt]

moc

Aug 20, 2014

Freak Cruiser for me...

because its new and fresh... Like Damjan,I prefer white metals for the Freak..... Between these two the cruiser is more interesting for me... In other metals and iterations,it depends... Mo

amanico

Aug 20, 2014

I am ( no more secretely ) counting the score... Will analyze that with a lot of interest! [nt]

Ronald Held

Aug 20, 2014

cruiser over phantom. I prefer previous styles of Freak. (nt)

amanico

Aug 20, 2014

3-0 for the Cruiser... Amazing. [nt]