A lightweight version of Urwerk’s most affordable model, the UR-100V “Lightspeed” retains the signature wandering hours time and carbon composite case of the earlier “C52” model. The Lightspeed, however, gains a facelift with a display that tracks the speed of light from the Sun traveling through the solar system.

Initial thoughts 

At first glance, the Lightspeed may appear similar to the standard UR-100V. Yet, closer scrutiny reveals distinct features, most notably a display indicating the time it takes for light to travel to each of the planets in our solar system. Furthermore, the black carbon case easily complements the aesthetic of the watch.

Attention to detail was paid to the light speed display, which also incorporates a new, streamlined cover for the central carousel. And of course the calculations required for the display were clearly substantial.

That being said, the display might not be for everyone, as all of the text crowds the dial. A more streamlined arrangement of the planet names or even symbols might have worked better. 

The Lightspeed retails for CHF65,000 with a limited but unrevealed production run. As Urwerk’s entry-level watch, the new UR-100V is a reasonable proposition in terms of independent watchmaking. However, it has competition from Urwerk’s own catalogue, where the titanium “Magic T” with a matching bracelet (albeit with a simpler case construction) costs CHF10,000 less.

Tracing the speed of light

The new model is named after the speed of light, or 299,792.458 km/s. Because of the distances in the solar system, the Sun’s rays reach each planet at a different time.

Urwerk redesigned its wandering time display to reflect that with a display around the redesigned carousel cover. The cover functions as a planetarium of sorts, with Super-Luminova indications representing the eight planets of the solar system and their respective distances from the Sun.

Apart from the updated time display, the Lightspeed distinguishes itself from other UR-100 models with the carbon composite case. The case is made up of a titanium inner case clad in a 54-layer carbon composite that is sand-blasting and then circular grained for a smooth, patterned surface.

Measuring at 43 mm by 51.73 mm with a height of 14.55 mm, the watch is slightly larger than the metal-alloy models due to the case construction.

In addition to these cosmetic changes, the UR-100V maintains the design of the model. Time is indicated via three satellites arranged on an aluminium carousel, alongside a small pointer for the minutes.

Another signature element of the model is the “Windfänger” atop the rotor that controls the winding rate. Here the Windfänger has been redesigned with a more complex open-worked pattern than earlier models.

The calibre remains the UR 12.02, a Vaucher automatic with Urwerk’s own time display module on top.

Key facts and price

Urwerk UR-100V “Lightspeed”

Diameter: 43 by 51.73 mm
Height: 14.55 mm
Material: Black carbon with DLC-coated caseback
Crystal: Sapphire
Water resistance: 50 m

Movement: UR 12.02
Functions: Satellite hours and minutes; Speed of light to reach the eight planets in the solar system
Frequency: 28,800 beats per hour (4 Hz)
Power reserve: 48 hours

Strap: Rubber strap with folding clasp

Limited edition: 50 pieces
Availability: At Urwerk retailers
Price: CHF65,000 (excluding taxes)

For more, visit Urwerk.com.

Correction February 8, 2024: The base movement is by Vaucher, and not Zenith as indicated in an earlier version of the article.