URWERK changes scale. After nearly three decades exploring the cosmos, celestial trajectories, and satellites, the independent laboratory founded by Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei ventures into the infinitely small with the new UR-300 Time Quantum. Inspired by subatomic physics and Planck’s constant, this avant-garde timepiece abandons traditional Geneva crosses to transform wandering hour displays into a complex kinetic choreography of planetary reconfiguration.
Anatomy of a Mutation: T-Shaped Architecture
The mechanical heart of the UR-300 is articulated through two perpendicular hour modules forming a T-shape architecture—a symbol of time itself. Each module incorporates two three-sided prisms, totaling four prisms that work in tandem to display the twelve hours via a patent-pending modular system.
The prism located at the base of the T indicates the current hour as it advances progressively along a 108° arc graduated from 0 to 60 minutes. Upon reaching the 60th minute, the mechanism triggers an instantaneous prograde reaction: the entire T-formation advances by 72°, the two axes of the T swap their geometric roles, and all four prisms rotate on their axes so that the next element displays the upcoming hour in a fraction of a second.
Energy & Control: Atomic Physics Applied to Micromechanics
The greatest technical challenge of the UR-300 lies in managing mass and inertia. To achieve a clean, fully synchronized jump without compromising the power reserve or subjecting the escapement to undue strain, URWERK optimized the gear train of the self-winding calibre UR-30.01V, equipping it with double barrels and its patented regulation system powered by Dual Flow Turbines.
The movement oscillates at a frequency of 4 Hz (28,800 vph) and delivers a 44-hour power reserve. On the dial side, three dedicated hands seect time into 20-second intervals across 120° sectors, completing a visual performance as technical as it is mesmerizing.
⚙️ Technical Summary
URWERK UR-300 Time Quantum
Limited edition of 50 total pieces (25 in grade 5 titanium and 25 in AlTiN-treated titanium). Modular planetary reconfiguration complication with T-shaped prisms, automatic calibre UR-30.01V, and 44 hours of power reserve. Price: CHF 168,000 (excl. taxes).
Technical Specifications
| Specification | URWERK UR-300 Time Quantum |
|---|---|
| Limited Editions | 25 pieces in grade 5 titanium (Titan) / 25 pieces in PE-CVD AlTiN-coated titanium |
| Case | Grade 5 titanium; dimensions 45.2 mm × 58.8 mm × 18.25 mm; anti-reflective sapphire crystals; water resistance tested to 3 ATM |
| Engine / Movement | In-house automatic calibre UR-30.01V with unidirectional rotor; double barrel |
| Frequency & Regulation | 4 Hz (28,800 vph); regulation via Dual Flow Turbines (patented system) |
| Power Reserve | 44 hours |
| Functions & Mechanism | Wandering hour modules with T-shaped prisms and prograde planetary reconfiguration; triple-hand 20-second indicator system |
| Strap | NATO-style strap |
| Price | CHF 168,000.00 (excl. taxes) |
