Marcus Hanke[PuristSPro Moderator]
11296
In the flesh, pt. 1: Freak "DiamonSil"
The major novelty, showcased by Ulysse Nardin, of course was the Freak
DiamonSil. I think it is not necessary to go into further details,
since the revolutionary new material of the Freak's escapement wheels
has been presented already by some articles, which you can access
through the UN blog list, to the right.
The watch's outer appearance is very similar to that of the Freak "Diamond Heart", minus the diamond-decorated bezel. The hour and minute indicators set with diamonds are the same, and give a clue on the artifically grown diamond used for the escapement wheels.

The flashlight clearly demonstrates the transparency of the blue sapphire "dial" with the geartrain underneath


This is - more or less - the whole movement of the "Freak": perfection in reduction
The problem for us, as watch enthusiasts, is that innovations like these are so specific, academic even, that their thrilling potential is wearing off quickly. The first silicium parts in the Freak (I) were really big news, all the world talked about it. The diamond layered wheels of the "Diamond Heart" were accepted with a respectful nod, but not more, and the new DiamonSil, which has a huge potential in the quest for the absolutely service-free watch mvoement, and could possibly revolutionize the modern way of watchmaking, appears to be somehow taken for granted.
Yet the Freak DiamonSil really earns our admiration: it is another important milestone in the history of horology.
Regards,
Marcus