Introduction
The world of independent watchmaking is a colorful place with hundreds of brands all vying to create some of the most unique and wonderful watches the industry has seen. Natuarally, some brands have proven to be more successful than others, one such brand being Urwerk. Founded in 1997 by Martin Frei and Felix Baumgartner, Urwerk’s mission has always been to create Haute Horlogerie timepieces that fuse their love of traditional watchmaking with a futuristic aesthetic that seems to have been lifted straight out of a sci-fi novel. With their distinctive case shapes and signature satellite hour markers, their timepieces have become some of horology’s most sought-after watches, one such being the model we have here, the UR-103 ref. 103.09 that we have here. Launched in 2003 and boasting a large 36mm x 49mm case in 18kt rose gold, the UR-103 is certainly a luxurious timepiece, but through its satellite hour marker display, unique case design, and unusual profile, the UR-103 fits on the wrist like a spaceship. Featuring a ridged and partially domed top that runs onto its sapphire crystal, the UR-103 wears like nothing else on the market outside of Urwerk’s exceptional offerings. With a control board, as Urwerk calls it, on its caseback – inspired by vintage marine chronometers, the UR-103 reveals its power reserve indicator and chrono meter which is used for precise time-setting. A thoroughly unique watch unlike anything else on the market, it is timepiece like this that reveal why Urkwerk are championed for their free-thinking design language and exceptional craftsmanship.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box and Papers
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Urwerk
Dimensions
36mm x 49mm
Model
UR-103
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 3.04
Reference
103.09
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
Circa early 2000s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt rose gold
Included
Watch, box and papers
Dial Color
Black
Condition
Watch is in excellent condition. Case shows minor surface wear, with some hairlines visible along the polished case surface. The caseback apertures show some debris trapped along the crystal edge. Original guarantee certificate is spotted with age as seen in the images.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
Horologically impressive and stylistically unique, Urkwerk's timepieces have long been a darling of the world of independent watchmaking thanks to their unique blend of avant-garde design and artisanal craftsmanship - all facets found within the UR-103.