URWERK EVOLVES THEIR ICONIC SATELLITE WITH THE UR-150 BLUE SCORPION

Urwerk introduces the UR-150 Blue Scorpion at Geneva Watch Days 2025, featuring a retrograde minute hand that performs a 240-degree return in a hundredth of a second. The watch combines Urwerk's satellite hour display with a new retrograde system, creating what the manufacture describes as a "mechanical drama" that unfolds at each hour change. Three hour satellites mounted on a flying carousel work in conjunction with a retrograde hand that frames the active hour from zero to 60 minutes.

The UR-150 represents Urwerk's continued exploration of satellite complications, building on the foundation established in 1997. Martin Frei, co-founder and artistic director, describes the experience: "The dial transforms before our eyes—so fast that it is barely perceptible to the naked eye." At the 60th minute, the retrograde hand snaps back across its 240-degree arc while the three satellites simultaneously rotate 270 degrees on their axes. This synchronised sequence repositions the next hour satellite to the nearest hundredth of a second.

The 42.5mm by 51mm case combines a sandblasted steel middle section with a Grade 5 titanium caseback. At 14.8mm thick, the case features micro-beaded finishing with satin-finished surfaces on the top and flanks. A domed sapphire crystal follows the case contours, creating what Urwerk describes as organic, continuous lines. The watch is water-resistant to 5 ATM (50 metres) with a screw-down crown. The case design prioritises ergonomics despite the complex mechanics within.

The dial architecture showcases three aluminium hour satellites on a brass flying carousel, visible beneath the domed crystal. Each satellite is tilted at 10 degrees to face the wearer—a detail that Felix Baumgartner notes "complicates everything" but enhances legibility. The retrograde hand, crafted from aluminium with sandblasted and satin-brushed finishing, frames rather than simply indicates the active hour. Blue ALD (Atomic Layer Deposition) treatment provides the distinctive colour, while Super-LumiNova on hour markers and the flying carousel ensures low-light visibility.

The UR-50.01 movement operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz) with a 43-hour power reserve. An automatic winding system governed by double turbines manages energy distribution. The movement employs Liga-processed wheels and features 38 jewels. The retrograde system utilises a cam and rack mechanism inspired by automatons, coupled with a speed governor to manage the rapid satellite rotation. Grade 5 titanium screw heads receive black polishing, while the brass rotor displays sandblasted and perlage finishing.

The watch comes on a high-performance hybrid rubber strap with an adjustable folding clasp. The strap design continues the case's organic lines, creating what Urwerk describes as a seamless transition from case to wrist. The rubber material choice complements the watch's technical nature while ensuring comfort during extended wear. The adjustable clasp system allows for precise fitting without requiring strap removal.

The UR-150 Blue Scorpion is limited to 50 pieces, continuing Urwerk's practice of restricted production runs. Within the manufacture's portfolio, the UR-150 introduces new mechanical complexity to the satellite complication family. The retrograde minute display represents a departure from Urwerk's typical wandering minute arrangements, demonstrating continued technical development in satellite time display.