Urwerk UR-230 Polaris

Quick specs Urwerk UR-230 Polaris
Price: approx. $ 168,000 | approx. € 160.000 | approx. £ 134,000 | CHF 150’000 (excluding taxes)
Size: 44.81 x 53.55 mm
Reference: not provided – limited to 35 pieces

The Urwerk UR-230 Polaris is the second model in Urwerk’s 230 series, designed to challenge conventions in how a watch looks and works. Especially when it comes to the way the time is displayed and how the movement is driven. Let’s have a look at this spaceship-like mechanical turtle.

Here, its white ceramic-based case represents a departure from Urwerk’s traditionally dark tones, but it remains a strange and fascinating object to look at. The company, founded in 1997, draws inspiration from the Sumerian city of Ur, linking ancient timekeeping with modern technology. And “Urwerk” is German for “Clock”, which makes sense too.

Materials and Dimensions of the UR-230 Polaris

The trapezoidal case of the UR-230 Polaris measures 44.81 millimeters in width, 53.55 millimeters in length, and 18.38 millimeters in thickness. So yes, it’s a big one. It is made from a layered composite of fiberglass and ceramic, in white. This offers the hardness of ceramic while improving resistance to impacts. The surface shifts between matte and glowing textures, creating a dynamic appearance depending on the angle of light.

The case back is from titanium treated with black DLC coating and also has sapphire crystal. Its open-worked dial displays a mix of white and black elements, emphasizing contrast for optimal readability. As far that is possible with the unconventional way of displaying the time.

Wandering Hours on a Satellite

The UR-230 Polaris uses Urwerk’s hallmark revolving satellite complication. Three arms carry hour cubes, rotating to indicate the time along a 120-degree arc. Each hour cube has four hour makers. Minutes are displayed via a retrograde hand made of aluminum, which resets every 60 minutes.

Additional features include shock absorption systems and airflow regulators. These elements enhance durability and provide control over the automatic winding system. Two switches on the case’s back allow users to adjust these functions, ensuring the watch adapts to the wearer’s activity level. For both the airflow system and the winding system is an indicator on each upper corner of the dial.

UR-7.30 Movement

The UR-230 Polaris houses the Urwerk caliber UR-7.30, an automatic movement with a dual-barrel system that delivers a 48-hour power reserve. The movement is protected within a sealed container. Within this is a dual turbine system that minimizes the impact of external shocks and optimizes airflow to the winding mechanism.

Its air brake system allows fine-tuning of the winding efficiency. When the airflow is restricted, its rotor slows down a bit preventing rapid motions of the rotor. Which might lead to damaging the movement. Highlights of the caliber are circular satin and sandblasted finishes, and black rhodium coating. The watch comes with a vulcanized rubber strap featuring a velcro closure.

Pricing of the Urwerk UR-230 Polaris

This Urwerk UR-230 Polaris is priced at 150,000 Swiss francs excluding taxes. So, around 134k in British pounds, and 160k+ for US dollars and euros. There are no spaceship look-alikes we know of, but watches from MB&F with its Horological Machines and HYT with fluid-driven time indications come close.

Buying a watch in this segment is quite a journey. Only a few pieces are made, this Urwerk is limited to 35 pieces. These low numbers combined with unconventional techniques can be a small risk as they can be difficult to service for third parties. However, it’s obvious that buying one means you have something truly unique.