The Urwerk UR-300 Time Quantum offers a unique wandering hour display system, a hallmark of Urwerk's design, in a limited edition of 25 pieces. It features a titanium case and a CHF 168,000 price tag, excluding taxes.
Urwerk's Unique Design Approach
Urwerk is renowned for its unconventional watchmaking approach, pioneered by Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei. Their signature style involves satellite hour indicators and retrograde scales. While Urwerk typically draws inspiration from astronomy, the UR-300 Time Quantum turns to the invisible world of atomic particles and energy.
Concept Behind the Time Quantum
The name 'Time Quantum' reflects Urwerk's innovative concept, inspired by atomic behavior and charged particles. This model does not aim to replicate quantum physics but transforms the idea of sudden transitions into a precise mechanical sequence.
How Does the Wandering Hour Indication Work?
The Time Quantum's wandering hour indication is achieved through a modular construction that reconfigures every 60 minutes, differing from the traditional carousel mechanism. Under the sapphire crystal, two linear modules form a T-shaped frame with rotating prisms as hour indicators.
Mechanics of the Hour Transition
When the prism reaches the end of the minute scale, the T-frame jumps forward, rotating 72 degrees to position the next hour prism. This complex sequence involves precise movements and energy management.
Movement and Power Reserve
The Time Quantum is powered by the automatic calibre UR-30.01V, based on a Vaucher movement. It features Urwerk's turbines, regulating energy flow to dual barrels, offering a 40-hour power reserve. A protection mechanism allows backward time setting.
Material and Construction Details
The movement uses diverse materials for specific properties: copper, brass, anodized aluminum, a beryllium alloy, ARCAP AP1D, titanium, and nickel processed via LIGA. The case is made of grade 5 titanium, measuring 45.2 x 58.8 x 18.25 mm, with an alternative PE-CVD coated version available.
Urwerk UR-300 Time Quantum Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Case Material | Titanium 5th grade |
| Dimensions | 45.2 x 58.8 x 18.25 mm |
| Movement | UR-30.01V |
| Power Reserve | 40 hours |
| Limited Edition | 25 pieces |
| Price | CHF 168,000 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price of the Urwerk UR-300 Time Quantum?
The Urwerk UR-300 Time Quantum is priced at approximately CHF 168,000, excluding taxes.
How many pieces of the UR-300 Time Quantum are available?
The Urwerk UR-300 Time Quantum is limited to 25 pieces.
What movement powers the Urwerk UR-300 Time Quantum?
The Urwerk UR-300 Time Quantum is powered by the automatic calibre UR-30.01V.