Introduction
Founded in 1997 by watchmaker Felix Baumgartner and designer Martin Frei, Urwerk emerged as one of the defining names of contemporary independent watchmaking, combining traditional mechanical watchmaking with a radically futuristic approach to displaying time. The model that truly established this philosophy was the UR-103, launched in 2003 and immediately recognisable for its sculptural case and wandering-hour satellite display. More than two decades later, it remains one of the watches most closely associated with Urwerk’s formative years.
The UR-103 ref. 103.09 takes this unmistakable architecture and renders it in 18K white gold, giving its unconventional design a surprisingly discreet character. Four rotating satellites each carry three hour numerals, with the active satellite travelling across the arched minute track at the bottom of the display. Turn the watch over and Urwerk’s so-called Control Board provides further indications including a power-reserve display and precision adjustment system. An important early Urwerk, the UR-103 helped establish a visual and mechanical language that continues to define the manufacture today
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
M 9
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Box, Service guarantee, service certificate and spare strap
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Urwerk
Dimensions
36mm x 49mm
Model
UR-103
Movement
Manual-wind calibre 3.04
Reference
103.09
Bracelet
Fabric strap
Year
2008
Condition
Near mint
Material
18K White Gold
Included
Box, Certificate, Booklet and spare strap
Dial Color
Black
THE DIAL
The UR-103 dispenses with conventional hands in favour of Urwerk’s signature wandering-hour display. Four rotating satellites each carry three hour numerals, with the relevant hour sweeping across the curved minute scale at the base of the display. Both mechanical and remarkably intuitive, the system became one of the defining signatures of early Urwerk.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Measuring 36mm wide and 49mm long, the UR-103’s elongated case was unlike virtually anything else being produced when the model appeared in 2003. Here executed in 18K white gold, its prominent ridged upper surface, unusual U-shaped sapphire crystal and oversized crown transform precious metal into something deliberately technical and futuristic.
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 overall near-mint condition. Following a full service in 2025, the 18K white gold case presents in near-mint condition, with just a few small surface marks, mainly to the top of the case. It is fitted with a fabric strap showing signs of wear and an 18K white gold pin buckle with a few light surface marks. Comes with the box, Certificate of Authenticity confirming the service, maintenance booklet and leather strap.
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
The UR-103 is far more than an unusual independent watch; it is one of the models that established Urwerk’s identity and helped define the new generation of avant-garde independent watchmaking that emerged around the turn of the millennium. The white gold ref. 103.09 is particularly compelling, pairing the model’s unmistakably futuristic architecture with a comparatively restrained precious-metal execution. For collectors interested in the formative period of modern independent watchmaking, the UR-103 is an important reference.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
