URWERK UR-100V Time and Culture 2 Watch

Swiss watchmaker URWERK has introduced its latest timepiece, the UR-100V Time and Culture II, affectionately known as the "Sumer." This collection draws inspiration from the ancient city of Ur, a significant influence on the brand. The Sumerians of Ur, who lived around 3000 BC, were pioneers in time measurement, establishing the foundation for our modern system. Their reverence for the number 60, which is reflected in our use of 60 seconds and 60 minutes, is a key aspect of this collection.

The UR-100V "Sumer" pays homage to the Sumerian civilization through its design. Encased under a sapphire dome, the watch showcases a modern interpretation of the Sun god Utu at its center, represented by a four-pointed sun symbolizing the cardinal points. The moon god Nanna, representing Ur's chief deity, is depicted between the lugs, creating an impression of orbital movement. These details highlight the Sumerians' mythology, astronomy, astrology, and time measurement practices.

The watch's blue hue is a tribute to lapis lazuli, associated with the goddess Innana, who symbolized Love, War, and Fertility. This vibrant color, along with authentic sky charts and planispheres, reflects the Sumerians' astronomical expertise and their fascination with celestial bodies.

Technically, the UR-100V "Sumer" features a self-winding UR 12.02 movement with a 48-hour power reserve. The laser-engraved designs on the watch serve as a testament to the timeless contributions of the Sumerian civilization to both timekeeping and culture. The watch uniquely displays the hours and minutes alongside information about the Earth's rotation and revolution, blending history, astronomy, and modern horology in a captivating manner.

The UR-100V "Sumer" was announced on October 18 and is priced at 72,000 CHF (approximately $80,000 USD). The exact quantity available is not specified, but it is likely that the timepiece can be obtained through inquiry on URWERK's official website.