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Urwerk lot 111 / 7

11 / Urwerk

UR-T8 No. 01/03, Transformer, Limited Edition, Black PVD-Coated Titanium, Self-Winding, Reversible Watch

Estimate: $30,000 – 50,000

Result (premium)$39,600
Brand
Urwerk
Model
Transformer
Year
Circa 2017
Reference
UR-T8
Calibre
UR 8.01, self-winding, 36 jewels
Case
No. 01/03
Materials
Black PVD-coated Grade 5 titanium
Bracelet
Blue Textile strap
Buckle
Black PVD-coated Grade 5 titanium Tang buckle
Dimensions
60.23 mm x 48.35 mm
Thickness
20 mm
Signature
Dial, case and movement

URWERK Reference UR-T8 – The Revolutionary Transformer Introduced in 2017 to commemorate URWERK's 20th anniversary, the UR-T8 Transformer represents a remarkable achievement in contemporary independent watchmaking, combining avant-garde design with innovative mechanical engineering. Created by Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei, the model was URWERK's first reversible wristwatch, redefining the relationship between mechanical timekeeping and wearable architecture. It features an imposing black PVD-coated titanium case, distinguished by its futuristic asymmetrical construction and intricate geometric decoration. Its ingenious reversible mechanism allows the case to be lifted, rotated 180 degrees and secured back into position, transforming the watch from a functional timepiece into a sculptural wrist-worn object. Beneath its distinctive exterior lies URWERK's celebrated satellite wandering-hour display, featuring rotating hour modules that travel across a curved 60-minute scale. Powered by the automatic Calibre UR 8.01, the mechanism incorporates an elaborate planetary carousel system and turbine-regulated winding, demonstrating the manufacture's exceptional technical creativity. Produced in a limited edition of 30 examples in black PVD-coated titanium, the UR-T8 stands among URWERK's most distinctive creations. Its innovative reversible construction, complex satellite indication and unmistakable futuristic aesthetics make it a compelling example of modern independent haute horlogerie. ––

Biography

Pioneers of Avant-Garde Independent Watchmaking Founded in 1997 by master watchmaker Felix Baumgartner and visionary designer Martin Frei, URWERK is an independent Swiss watchmaking manufacture celebrated for its revolutionary approach to haute horlogerie. Combining traditional Swiss craftsmanship with futuristic design and innovative mechanical engineering, the brand has established itself as one of the most distinctive names in contemporary independent watchmaking. The name URWERK derives from the ancient Mesopotamian city of Ur, associated with the earliest methods of measuring time, while the German word Werk signifies work, creation or mechanism. Together, they reflect the manufacture's philosophy of reimagining the expression of time through mechanical innovation and artistic creativity. Urwerk From its earliest creations, URWERK challenged conventional watchmaking by replacing traditional hands with ingenious satellite wandering-hour displays, in which rotating hour indicators travel along minute tracks. This distinctive complication became the brand's signature, appearing in celebrated models including the UR-103, UR-202, UR-110 and UR-210. In 2017, URWERK celebrated its 20th anniversary with the introduction of the remarkable UR-T8 Transformer, featuring an innovative reversible case and the manufacture's signature satellite time indication. This extraordinary creation exemplifies URWERK's dedication to pushing the boundaries of mechanical watchmaking and contemporary design. Urwerk Producing its timepieces in exceptionally small quantities, URWERK continues to combine advanced materials, intricate mechanical constructions and meticulous hand-finishing. Its unconventional designs and technical ingenuity have earned the manufacture a distinguished reputation among collectors of independent haute horlogerie. Today, URWERK stands as a symbol of innovation, individuality and mechanical artistry, representing a bold reinterpretation of traditional Swiss watchmaking for the modern era.