With a name deriving from the ancient Sumerian city of Ur, where time was tracked based upon shadows and where the year was divided into 12 units, Urwerk was established in 1997 founded by Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei. With an aim to associate traditional Swiss horological culture with futuristic ideology of the interpretation of time, the two set out to create fascinating timepieces which would stun the horological community in 2005 by launching the UR-103 with revolving satellite display. Three years later amidst the global financial crisis, the firm launched what is to be one of their iconic and statement models the UR-202.

Technically sound with strong futuristic elements to form its unique aesthetics, the Urwerk UR-202 did not just only feature the impressive and highly complex revolving satellite display but also additional telescopic minute hands to complete the feature. Furthermore, a new and innovative winding system was developed and incorporated using compressed air, the Turbine Automatic. With its winding rate regulated by fluid dynamics, a function selector can be seen on the caseback with three modes for winding, “Stop”, “Sport” and “Free”. Though depending heavily on the level of activity, the twin turbines spin freely during normal activity and during rapid activity the turbines are regulated to reduce the winding rate by 35%. This in the long run would provide the movement with a longer life span as it reduces the amount of stress.

Regarded as a horological revelation, the Urwerk UR-202 is arguably one of the most successful models released by the firm. The present UR-202 encased in 18K white gold features the classic color combination with neon yellow luminous material on the dial. Mechanically sound and aesthetically pleasing, the present UR-202 WG will surely impress collectors of contemporary timepieces and dedicated enthusiasts of independents.