URWERK UR-105 M Iron Knight

Limited Edition of 77 Pieces

Overview

Released in April 2014, the URWERK UR-105 M Iron Knight introduced a powerful new interpretation of the UR-105 architecture. Limited to just 77 pieces, the Iron Knight reflects URWERK’s fascination with mechanical armour and the protective symbolism of medieval shields.

The watch combines a steel shield formed from iron and carbon alloy with a lightweight titanium body. This layered construction protects the satellite time display beneath while reinforcing the sculptural character of the case. The result is a watch that feels both ancient and futuristic, drawing inspiration from the armour of medieval knights while housing one of URWERK’s most recognisable complications.

Satellite Time Display

The UR-105 M Iron Knight uses URWERK’s signature satellite hour system.

Four satellites rotate beneath the protective canopy, each carrying hour numerals. As a satellite reaches the minute track it travels across the 60 minute scale to indicate the current time before rotating away to continue its orbit.

A circular PEEK canopy frames the display and highlights the active hour while partially masking the inactive satellites. Once the minute arc has been completed, the satellite rotates through a Geneva cross mechanism and returns to the carousel before appearing again three hours later.

This constantly shifting architecture gives the display a mechanical rhythm that is unmistakably URWERK.

Case Architecture

The Iron Knight is defined by its protective steel shield.

Constructed from an alloy of iron and carbon, the shield sits above the titanium case and protects the complex satellite mechanism beneath. Four sapphire windows and two sapphire loops allow light to enter the display while revealing the movement from different angles.

The result is a three dimensional construction that invites interaction between the wearer and the watch.

Side Indicators

Along the side of the case the wearer can observe two additional displays:

• running seconds
• power reserve indicator

These lateral indications reinforce the technical nature of the watch while preserving the purity of the main satellite display.

The URWERK Control Board

Turning the watch over reveals URWERK’s signature Control Board.

The Control Board allows the wearer to monitor the movement and adjust its behaviour through several indicators and functions.

The case-back includes:

• Oil Change service indicator
• 42 hour power reserve indicator
• fine tuning screw for adjusting the rate of the movement

This feature reflects URWERK’s philosophy that a watch should communicate the health and behaviour of its mechanism.

Creator Thoughts

Felix Baumgartner

“The UR-105M Iron is a complex three dimensional construction. The case with its four sapphires and two sapphire loops shows our interest in creating interaction between the wearer and the watch.

The control board provides information on service intervals and power reserve. On top of that the wearer can actively fine tune the precision of the movement. It is completely URWERK.”

Martin Frei

“The UR-105M Iron was inspired by the armour of medieval knights. Its iron shield protects the watch just as armour protects a warrior.

While researching the project I read about Johann Schmidberger, a blacksmith from Molln in Austria who still forges armour for the papal guard using traditional methods. Felix and I travelled to meet him and watched him working in his ancient forge.

Seeing iron glowing in the fire and shaped under the hammer left a deep impression on me. Iron was used not only for armour but also for the first tower clocks in churches. The shield of the UR-105M is inspired by that encounter.”