Unveiled in 2017 for URWERK’s 20th anniversary, the UR-T8 marked a bold reinvention of the wandering hours — and of the case itself. This was the brand’s first transformer watch: a reversible case that flips with a satisfying click to either reveal the time or protect it completely under a sleek, shield-like back.

On the dial side, URWERK’s satellite hours glide across a retrograde minute track in a dramatic arc, enhanced by a bold 60mm case with sculptural edges and deep textures. Turn it over, and the time disappears — replaced by a futuristic metal carapace that feels more armor than watch.

More than just a technical experiment, the UR-T8 was a statement piece that celebrated two decades of design rebellion. It came in raw titanium and DLC-coated editions.

UR-T8 Skull by King Nerd

One of the boldest expressions of the UR-T8’s transformer identity came in the form of a bronze skull — meticulously hand-engraved by artist Johnny Dowell, known as “King Nerd.” This one-of-a-kind creation transformed the watch’s protective case back into a canvas of gothic storytelling. A fierce skull motif rises from the bronze surface, rich with detail and dark romanticism, echoing URWERK’s own fascination with the passage of time and mortality. The natural patina of the bronze only adds to the depth, ensuring this piece evolves with its wearer — an evolving talisman wrapped around the wrist.

UR-T8 Colibri by Emmanuel Esposito

The UR-T8 Colibri is a mechanical sculpture disguised as a timepiece. In collaboration with contemporary artisan Emmanuel Esposito, URWERK reimagined its most radical watch as a mosaic of shimmering exoticism. Esposito applied his signature mosaic marquetry technique. Hundreds of individual pieces of black-lip mother of pearl were cut into diamond shapes then hand-sorted and arranged according to how each reflects the light. Creating a tactile, feather-like surface that glows with subtle iridescence. The result is a unique work of kinetic art, where horology meets high craftsmanship. The “Colibri” (Italian for hummingbird) name nods to the delicate power of this extraordinary fusion between engineering and handcraft.