Returning to a metal it has not used in a long time, Urwerk debuts the UR-100 Gold Edition in 18k yellow gold. It’s a limited edition of just 25 watches, with the first watch slated to be sold to benefit medical research in an online auction.

The Gold Edition is the fourth iteration of the brand’s entry-level watch, which was previously available only in steel. Because of the case material, the Gold Edition is more costly, but by a reasonable margin, than the earlier steel versions.

Initial thoughts

Though Urwerk watches make the most sense in steel or titanium – those materials match the sci-fi style and mechanics – they have the most appealing tangible feel in precious metal. And brushed yellow gold has a restrained-but-luxe look that I like, though I would worry about it being quite easily scuffed.

The downside of an Urwerk watch in gold or platinum is typically weight, and the resulting poor ergonomics. But as the UR-100 is one of the smallest, and definitely the slimmest, Urwerk watches to date, it is likely the most wearable gold Urwerk to date.

Importantly, it’s priced at about 20% over the steel version, or 10,000 Swiss francs, which is reasonable as such things go. The Gold Edition is worth the stretch, assuming you can live with the less-robust case material.

2N gold

The gold case is finished with a pronounced brushed finish, with the edges framed by polished bevels, resulting in a soft sheen that goes with the pale colour of the alloy – 2N gold according to Urwerk – that’s a departure from the rose gold Urwerk typically turns to. The outer bridge and carousel on the dial are aluminium are usual, but both have been gold plated to match the case.

That aside, the Gold Edition is identical to the earlier versions of the UR-100. It’s powered by the UR 12.01 automatic movement that has the brand’s signature satellite-type wandering hours.

Supporting medical research

Urwerk will auction the first watch of the series, which has been christened “Fight C-19”, in a two-day online auction that starts on May 8.

All proceeds from its sale will be donated to medical charities that are working to alleviate the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. The winning bidder, in collaboration with Urwerk, will get to select the charities that receive the donation.

The auction starts at 4 pm CET on May 8, 2020. To bid, visit Urwerk.store.

Key facts and price

Urwerk UR-100 Gold Edition

Case diameter: 41 mm
Case height: 14 mm
Material: 18k yellow gold
Water resistance: 30 m

Movement: UR 12.01
Features: Satellite hours and minutes; Earth’s rotational and orbital distance
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Winding: Automatic
Power reserve: 48 hours

Strap: Alligator

Limited edition: 25 pieces
Availability: At Urwerk retailers; the first piece will be sold for charity on Urwerk.store
Price: 58,000 Swiss francs; or 89,300 Singapore dollars

For more, visit Urwerk.com.