Urwerk
Approximately 12 years ago I visited the Hour Glass boutique on Sydney’s highly prestigious Castlereagh Street. It was there I got the chance to try on many exclusive pieces from some of the world’s most luxurious ateliers. One of the highlights was the Swiss independent ‘Haute Horlogerie’ brand Urwerk. Until this point, I was unaware that watchmakers were creating these types of magnificent timepieces. The choice of lightweight materials, exceptionally complicated mechanical movements and futuristic facades really set them apart. Fast forward to 2024 and Urwerk have just released another exquisite watch called the UR-150 Scorpion.
Urwerk
Urwerk is spearheaded by two very innovative gentlemen. On the design side, Martin Frei is at the helm and in my opinion a creative powerhouse. To compliment his artistic vision is a brilliant watchmaker called Felix Baumgartner. Between them and a small team, they specialize in conceiving sensational micro batch limited edition watches. Three years ago, when I was researching for my 9th book about modern dress watches (entitled ‘Timeless Classics) I was seriously thinking about including Urwerk. However, I felt the dimensions and industrial aesthetic might not align with the overall concept. Even though the UR-150 Scorpion measures 42.49mm x 52.31mm x 14.79mm it appears smaller. Ultimately this is down to the curvaceous slim line silhouette and choice of sandblasted titanium, which gives the piece a refined quality. Therefore, I believe this timepiece could be worn to both formal and casual occasions.
Urwerk
For many people including myself, the notion of spending CHF 88,000 is incomprehensible. However, serious collectors with deep pockets will revel in the many delights the UR-150 Scorpion has to offer. For example, the open-worked 3D architectural dial is an absolute revelation. Front and centre is an entirely new satellite complication system based around a flying wheel and pinion. This ingenious innovation is positioned between the satellites and the base movement. Every detail is finished to perfection and encapsulated in dome sapphire crystal. In my opinion, this watch is the epitome of brilliant modernistic mechanical wrist art.
Urwerk
Powering the watch is a sophisticated double turbine self-winding movement developed in-house. The Calibre UR-50.01 comprises 38 jewels and oscillates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour. This mechanism features production techniques such as circular graining, sandblasted, shot-blasting, and circular satin finishing which is visible via the sapphire crystal exhibition case back. Functionally the UR-150 Scorpion features satellite hours and minutes. The watch also has a power reserve of 43 hours and is water resistant to a depth of 50 meters.
Urwerk
To complete the picture the UR-150 Scorpion is presented on a KISKA rubber strap. For more information about this amazing watch follow the link: https://www.urwerk.com/collections/ur-satellite/ur-150-scorpion
