URWERK UR-102 “reloaded” is modern reinterpretation of a classic timepiece

URWERK introduced the iconic UR-102 wristwatch way back in time at the Baselworld 1997, and now the classic horological piece is reinvented in a modern avatar.

The Geneva-based brand has instilled a reputation for creating timepieces that push the boundaries of aesthetics. Now with this reloaded version of the wristwatch that broke the notions with its round shape and absence of hands back in the era, URWERK wants to revive old watchmaking traditions.

Designer: URWERK

The UR-102 “reloaded” restates the celestial body-like appeal of the watch, inspired by the Sputnik satellite. Therefore, the semi-reflective appearance and tweaked look retaining most of the DNA takes precedence in the looks. Case size has increased from 38 mm to 41 mm for a stronger presence and the crown earlier located at the 3 o’clock position has now moved to 4 o’clock integrating the futuristic appeal a notch higher. Also, the crown is now merged with the case and the lugs are now angular compared to the sharp lugs on the original UR-102.

The wandering hour complication has only one moving part like its inspiration and comes with a semi-circular arc on the dial to display the minutes. That arched minute scale wanders like a satellite from 0 to 30 and then returns to the 60 position during the descent. With the reloaded version URWERK has gone with a much clearer font for better readability. On the inside, the wristwatch is powered by a 4Hz frequency self-winding caliber 2.02 movement at 28,800 vph frequency and a power reserve of 48 hours.

The reloaded version water-resistant for up to 30 meters is safeguarded with a bespoke sapphire crystal on the face. To match the stunning dial, there is a rubber strap embellished with a textures Baltimore-quilt pattern and a micro-blasted titanium buckle. URWERK has not detailed in much about the horological design, but it’ll be available in satin-brushed titanium and black options. Keeping in mind the exclusivity of the UR-102 “reloaded” watch it’ll come in a limited twin-set edition of 25 units for a steep price tag of CHF56,000 (US$60,000).