Urwerk UR-230 Polaris White Ceramic

Urwerk, known for its dark-toned designs, takes a bold step with the UR-230 Polaris, featuring a white ceramic-based composite case. This limited-edition release refreshes the brand's aesthetic and brings futuristic elegance inspired by Stanley Kubrick’s *2001: A Space Odyssey* and NASA’s Apollo era. Martin Frei, Urwerk's art director, describes it as having “NASA cool written all over it.”

The case, measuring 44.81mm wide, 53.55mm long, and 18.38mm thick, uses advanced materials combining a polymer base with ceramic and silver-toned fiberglass layers for enhanced strength. Its white finish comes from a resin encapsulating the fibers, revealing intricate textures as light interacts with the case’s surface. Unlike its predecessor, the UR-230 Eagle, the Polaris omits the protective mobile cover, offering a constant view of its signature satellite mechanism.

Urwerk's signature wandering hours complication is on full display. Rotating hour cubes mounted on a three-armed carousel indicate the current hour, while a three-dimensional retrograde hand tracks minutes along a dedicated arc. White Super-LumiNova highlights the mechanism for low-light visibility, complemented by red lume accents for the minute track and winding indicator.

At its core, the UR-230 Polaris houses the UR-7.30 caliber, a self-contained movement with a 48-hour power reserve. Operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, the caliber features dual turbines to minimize shocks and optimize winding. An adjustable "air brake" further refines winding efficiency.

Paired with a white vulcanized rubber strap and Velcro closure, the UR-230 Polaris is a statement piece limited to 35 units. Priced at CHF 150,000 (excluding tax), this avant-garde timepiece underscores Urwerk’s innovative spirit.