The Urwerk UR-150 Scorpion is a horological marvel, representing a blend of futuristic design and traditional watchmaking mastery. Known for pushing the boundaries of timepiece innovation, Urwerk has created a watch that is both mechanically intricate and visually stunning. At the heart of the UR-150 lies a retrograde mechanism featuring a flying carousel with three hour satellites. This carousel follows a precise path orchestrated by a cam, allowing the hour satellites to perform a meticulously timed dance. The display is bold, reflecting Urwerk’s signature style while introducing a new level of technical complexity. The retrograde mechanism of the UR-150 Scorpion operates with remarkable precision. The flying carousel completes a full rotation over the span of 60 minutes, carrying the hour satellites along their pre-determined path. This movement is orchestrated by a specially designed cam, which ensures that each satellite’s journey is smooth and exact. As the minute hand reaches the 60-minute mark, a spring mechanism triggers the watch’s most dramatic feature: a rapid 240° jump of the retrograde hand. Simultaneously, the hour satellites rotate 270°, positioning the next hour in place. This synchronized motion creates a seamless transition between hours and minutes.
Urwerk has replaced its classic Maltese cross mechanism with a new satellite complication system for the UR-150 Scorpion. The new system is built around a flying wheel and pinion, positioned strategically between the satellites and the base movement. This innovative approach enhances the precision and durability of the watch, offering a smoother and more efficient display of time. The transition from the traditional mechanism to the new cam and rack system represents Urwerk’s dedication to continuous improvement and the evolution of watchmaking techniques. To achieve the complex movements of the UR-150 Scorpion, Urwerk needed to develop a unique spring. This spring plays a pivotal role in the lightning-fast action of the retrograde hand, ensuring a swift and accurate jump as the hour changes. Machined in-house, this component demonstrates Urwerk’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail. The in-house manufacturing process allows for precise calibration, ensuring that each spring performs flawlessly, maintaining the high standards of accuracy and reliability expected from an Urwerk timepiece.
The UR-150 Scorpion is equipped with sapphire crystals that are treated with an anti-reflective coating. This ensures optimal legibility of the intricate dial, allowing the wearer to appreciate the beauty of the movement without any visual interference. The use of sapphire crystal, renowned for its durability and scratch resistance, ensures that the watch remains pristine even with daily wear. This attention to detail in the choice of materials contributes to the overall luxury and longevity of the UR-150. Engineered for real-world functionality, the UR-150 Scorpion is pressure-tested to withstand depths of up to 5 ATM (165 feet or 50 meters). This level of water resistance ensures that the watch can endure daily wear, light water exposure, and even occasional swimming, making it suitable for various lifestyles. Despite its complex mechanics, the watch is built to handle everyday challenges while retaining its high performance and precision.
The power reserve of the UR-150 Scorpion is 43 hours, ensuring that it keeps running smoothly for nearly two days without needing a winding. This feature is particularly beneficial for those who may rotate between different watches or have periods of inactivity. The combination of a robust power reserve and the watch’s intricate mechanics makes it a reliable companion for any horological enthusiast. Controlling the UR-150 Scorpion is straightforward, thanks to its three-position screw-down crown. This crown allows for easy adjustment of time and winding, ensuring that the watch can be set and maintained with minimal effort. The screw-down design enhances water resistance and durability, offering both functionality and security. This practical aspect of the UR-150 balances its complex mechanics, making it a user-friendly yet sophisticated piece of watchmaking art.