The first Ulysse Nardin Freak was released in 2001, it included a 7 day-tourbillon-carrousel which went on to win the Chronos Innovation Prize for that year. This unusual watch had no hands or crown, and the constantly revolving movement gave the indications for time. The hour indicator is located on the mainspring barrel and the lithe escapement bridge acts as the minute indicator. The name FREAK started out as a secret code name for the project, in the end the name stuck as the watch was such a departure from conventional watch-making. The innovation also included the all new Dual Direct escapement developed by Ludwig Oechslin. The development of the FREAK pioneered the use of silicium and showcased the unique abilities of silicium for the production of their escapement wheels.

In 2007 Ulysse Nardin took the Freak a step further with the launch the Freak DIAMonSIL which included a new patented Dual Ulysse Escapement made out of diamond and silicium. This time Ulysse Nardin used diamonds in the development of the new Freak with the goal of increasing the maximum life span and protecting the mechanism against external stress. Advancements in technology have allowed for alloying the silicium with diamond. Making the freak the first timepiece with a synthetic nanocrystal diamond escapement grown on a silicium raw part. The Freak DIAMonSIL has a retail price of $128,000 and is produced in the limited number of only 28 pieces.

2008 brought another member to the Freak family, the Freak DIAMonSIL. Crafted in 18k White Gold with the bridges and metal parts treated with a stainless blue titanium based alloy. The watch has the Caliber UN-202 Dual Ulysse Escapement movement in silicium with a power reserve of 7 days. This version of the Freak has the recognizable Carrousel Tourbillon which displays hours and minutes.