Urwerk, a brand celebrated for its mechanical ingenuity and visionary designs, has once again pushed the boundaries of traditional watchmaking with its latest creation, the UR-100V LightSpeed Ceramic. This innovative timepiece, developed by founders Martin Frei and Felix Baumgartner, transforms the measurement of time into an exploration of the cosmos. Building upon the legacy of the UR-100 SpaceTime, which debuted in 2019, the UR-100V LightSpeed Ceramic captivates with its white ceramic composite case and a unique display that illustrates the cosmic speed limit, specifically, the journey of sunlight to the various planets within our solar system.
The design philosophy of Frei and Baumgartner challenges conventional time display, aiming to forge a connection between humanity and the cosmic order. The UR-100V LightSpeed Ceramic vividly portrays the speed of light, representing the constant velocity of photons traversing empty space at approximately 300,000 km/s. The watch's domed, open-worked black dial features the eight planets, with a blue and green hand indicating the precise time sunlight takes to reach each celestial body. This dynamic display is integrated into the wandering hours mechanism, with the hand completing a full rotation around the dial in three hours, offering a captivating visual representation of cosmic journeys.
A notable innovation in this edition is its proprietary white ceramic case. This special composite material, measuring 43mm in width, 51.73mm in length, and 14.55mm in thickness, is engineered for resilience, incorporating glass and carbon fibers to prevent shattering. The choice of white for the case is deliberate, symbolizing the optical effect where all visible light wavelengths are present in perfect balance, revealing subtle silver flecks from the glass fibers and a distinctive stratified texture. The display remains true to Urwerk's signature style, with hours indicated by three revolving satellites and a red arrow-tipped minutes hand traversing a 120-degree arc, all enhanced with Super-LumiNova for superior legibility. Powering this celestial marvel is the UR 12.02 calibre, an automatic movement with a 48-hour power reserve, housed within a black DLC-treated titanium caseback adorned with a Sun-inspired rotor. The UR-100V LightSpeed Ceramic is presented with both black and white rubber straps, priced at CHF 67,000 (excluding tax), underscoring its exclusivity and innovative spirit.
The Urwerk UR-100V LightSpeed Ceramic is more than a mere time-telling device; it is a profound testament to human ingenuity and our enduring fascination with the universe. It encourages us to look beyond the ordinary, embracing a broader perspective on time and existence. This watch embodies the spirit of exploration and the relentless pursuit of knowledge, reminding us that every moment is a part of a larger, awe-inspiring cosmic narrative.