URWERK UR-1001 'Zeit Device': A Pocket Watch for the Ages
Independents

URWERK UR-1001 'Zeit Device': A Pocket Watch for the Ages

By Jay (Eire) · Apr 9, 2020 · 33 replies
Jay (Eire)
WPS member · Independents forum
33 replies5360 views2 photos
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Jay (Eire)'s original post spotlights the extraordinary URWERK UR-1001 'Zeit Device,' a horological marvel that challenges traditional notions of timekeeping. This piece delves into the grand scale and intricate complications of a pocket watch designed for the ages, prompting a community discussion on its wearability and unique aesthetic. Jay's initial observations set the stage for appreciating URWERK's audacious approach to haute horlogerie.

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One needs big pockets for this one, literally and figuratively.

The UR-1001.

Seconds, minutes, hours, day/night, date, month, years.

Note the annual calendar using Urwerk’s signature satellite. 

The back, which I don’t have a picture of, shows running time for 100 years and a linear running time indicator for 1000 years.  





About the Urwerk Ref. UR-1001

The Urwerk UR-1001, known as the "Zeit Device," represents a significant departure from traditional horology, even within Urwerk's innovative catalog. It is not a wristwatch but rather a pocket watch or desk clock, designed as a grand complication that tracks time on multiple scales, from seconds to a millennium. This reference showcases Urwerk's commitment to unconventional time displays and mechanical complexity, serving as a flagship demonstration of their engineering philosophy.

The UR-1001 features a substantial case crafted from titanium and steel, housing a complex manual-winding movement. The time is displayed through a combination of satellite indications, retrograde minutes, and digital jumping hours. Beyond standard time, it incorporates a perpetual calendar, a day/night indicator, and a "running reserve" indicator for the power reserve. Its large dimensions and intricate architecture are protected by a sapphire crystal, allowing for a clear view of the multi-layered dial.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a unique and highly technical horological object that transcends the conventional wristwatch format. It stands as a testament to Urwerk's ability to push boundaries in mechanical timekeeping, offering a long-term perspective on time with its 100-year and 1000-year indicators. The UR-1001 is a limited production piece, underscoring its exclusivity and appeal to those interested in avant-garde independent watchmaking.

Specifications

Caliber
UR-1001
Case
Titanium and steel
Diameter
106mm x 62mm
Dial
Black
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
WA
Watchonthewrist
Apr 9, 2020
Thats one huge piece of art .

Such a amazing watch. Do like it

JA
Jay (Eire)
Apr 9, 2020
Art for sure. I do like too. It was really impressive in the metal. [nt]

NI
NickO
Apr 9, 2020
That’s a crazy piece. Even for URWERK, it’s crazy

The only thing that would make it crazier is if they made a case and strap so that you can wear it like a wristwatch. Oh wait.......

JA
Jay (Eire)
Apr 9, 2020
Yep....if you think of it they’ve already thought of it. [nt]

CP
Cpt Scarlet
Apr 9, 2020
And deep pockets 😬 [nt]

NA
nasseriq
Apr 9, 2020
Absolutely stunning. I dread to ask the price. [nt]

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