Urwerk UR-150 Scorpion Dark version in anthracite PVD steel.
Independent watch brand, Urwerk, by Martin Frei and Felix Baumgartner, has been surprising and delighting watch lovers with its incredible three-dimensional timepieces for more than 25 years now. Producing just about 150 watches a year, the brand is among the most-in-demand with collectors for its outrageous technology, display of time, materials and finishes. Now, its newest creation, the UR-150 Scorpion, is a reinvention of its iconic satellite hours in rounded format with a host of surprises, including a fully re-worked movement.
Urwerk’s UR-150 Scorpion marks a new chapter — one that recalls the scorpion’s tail and, according to the brand, refers to the movement’s 240-degree minutes sector. Its design is inspired by the sting of a scorpion, symbolizing speed and precision. While the watch’s outward appearance suggests calm with its rounded form, beneath its sleek exterior lies a highly complex mechanical system that strikes with lethal speed, much like its namesake.
Urwerk UR-150 Scorpion Titan in sand-blasted titanium.
The new UR-150 Scorpion timepiece, available in two variations—Titan and Dark—presents a formidable blend of aesthetic innovation and horological prowess. At the heart of the UR-150 is a cutting-edge retrograde mechanism, which defines the essence of the watch’s unique time display. The time-indication system revolves around three satellite hour displays, each mounted on a carousel. As time progresses, the satellites move on their axes, carrying the hour indicators with them.
The minutes are displayed through a large, open-worked retrograde hand that arcs over a 240-degree minutes sector. This expanded display is ambitious for a wristwatch, departing from the more conventional 120-degree minute arcs. Once the retrograde hand reaches the 60-minute mark, it swiftly snaps back to zero, repositioning itself to begin tracking the next hour in the blink of an eye.
The case back of the Urwerk UR-150 Scorpion
What also sets the UR-150 Scorpion apart is the precision with which these movements are executed. The carousel of satellites, driven by a cam and rack system, performs this complex dance of rotations and realignments with flawless accuracy. The instant the minute hand strikes 60, a spring mechanism triggers, allowing the retrograde hand to jump 240 degrees while simultaneously rotating the satellites by 270 degrees. This meticulous choreography is completed in mind-boggling 1/100th of a second.
According to Urwerk co-founder and master watchmaker Felix Baumgartner, the challenge of controlling this level of kinetic force required a complete overhaul of their previous satellite complication systems.
Urwerk’s innovation also extends to energy management, a crucial factor given the intense dynamic forces at play. The UR-150 features a flywheel and speed regulator, mechanisms traditionally used in minute repeaters to control the chiming sequence. In the UR-150, the flywheel ensures a smooth and controlled return of the retrograde hand, preventing any undue strain on the components.
The movement inside the Urwerk UR-150 Scorpion watch has been totally reconfigured.
The satellite hour system is crafted from lightweight aluminum to reduce inertia, while the case material choices—sandblasted titanium and steel—further enhance the watch’s durability and shock resistance.
In terms of design, the UR-150 Scorpion balances aggressive symbolism with an organic shape. The curvatures of the case, sapphire crystal, and the bracelet echo the smooth, ergonomic lines that make the watch comfortable to wear while maintaining a bold visual presence. Martin Frei, Urwerk’s creative director and co-founder, explains that this fusion of gentle curves with acute angles reflects the house’s ongoing exploration of design contrasts. Viewed from the side, the curvature extends even into the movement itself, with the satellite hour system following the same sloping profile.
The Urwerk UR-150 Scorpion retails for $105,000 for the Dark version and $103,000 for the Titan model.
Beyond the technical complexity, Urwerk has incorporated a new automatic winding system that employs a double turbine setup. This system enhances the efficiency of the rotor, safeguarding the movement from shocks and providing superior energy delivery. With a power reserve of 43 hours, the UR-150 Scorpion is as robust as it is revolutionary.
The UR-150 Scorpion is available in the Titan (sand- and shot-blasted titanium) version with lime green accents for $103,000, or in the Dark version (anthracite PVD treated steel) for $105,000. Just 50 pieces of each will be made. Watch for a “hands-on” review coming soon.
