Origins and period
Geneva and Zurich, Switzerland
Founded in 1997
Abbady Watches A–Z archive · Research page
Urwerk
This page has been created in the permanent archive and is ready for verified history, watch photographs, model identification, and collector information.
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Images needed for Urwerk
Please upload a clear front view, caseback, movement or calibre marking, side profile and crown, clasp or bracelet, and any inscription. Photographs will be captioned without guessing an exact reference.
Urwerk in watchmaking
Watchmakers Felix and Thomas Baumgartner and designer Martin Frei founded Urwerk to reinterpret historic wandering-hour displays through futuristic mechanics. Rotating satellite indications, sculptural cases, and experimental control systems made it a defining independent watchmaking house.
Landmark dates
- Founding and first production
- Important movement or model launch
- Expansion, merger, revival, or modern milestone
Known for
Wandering-hour satellites, UR-101 and UR-103, UR-werk spacecraft-inspired cases, EMC electronic monitoring, and avant-garde independent horology.
Movements and innovation
Calibres, escapements, case construction, water resistance, electronic or quartz development, manufacturing methods, patents, and specialist suppliers.
Identification checklist
- Reference and serial numbers
- Movement calibre and jewel count
- Case material and dimensions
- Dial, hands, crown, crystal, bracelet, and inscriptions
Preservation guidance
Service considerations, originality, replacement parts, water-resistance assumptions, safe storage, and details that should be documented before restoration.
References and credits
Official manufacturer history, museum or archive sources, technical sheets, books, catalogues, advertisements, image credits, and provenance notes.