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Lot #3311

Urwerk UR-103 103.09 18k RG Box and Papers

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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.

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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

THE DIAL
THE DIAL

Now a signature part of Urkwerk's aesthetic, the UR-103 features a black satellite hour mechanism whereby the satellite passing along the minute track showcases the hours and its progression along the track representing the minutes. As such, the picture above shows the time as 1:30

THE CONSTRUCTION
THE CONSTRUCTION

An eclectic blend of avant-garde space-inspired design language and luxury, the UR-103's 36mm x 49mm 18kt rose gold case is emblematic of Urwerk's unique styling, with its ridged top, large crown, and U-shaped sapphire crystal standing as a testament to that.

TIMING MACHINE READOUT
TIMING MACHINE READOUT

This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.

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.

Eric Ku

Co-founder