In the world of haute horlogerie, few names command as much respect and admiration as Urban Jürgensen. Known for their timeless designs and meticulous craftsmanship, the brand has long been a favorite among discerning watch collectors. And now, after a brief hiatus, Urban Jürgensen is back, and in spectacular fashion, no less. The Danish-Swiss watchmaker is marking its return and celebrating its 250th anniversary with the release of a truly exceptional timepiece – the Urban Jürgensen UJ-1 Tourbillon.
First Impressions and Design
The UJ-1 Tourbillon is a sight to behold. Housed in a 44mm platinum case, the watch exudes a sense of luxurious understatement that Urban Jürgensen is known for. The dial, in classic Urban Jürgensen fashion, is a beautiful blend of simplicity and sophistication. It features a grand feu enamel dial, a painstakingly intricate process that results in a stunning, glossy white surface. The dial showcases an off-centered hours and minutes sub-dial, a power reserve indicator, and of course, the captivating one-minute tourbillon at the 6 o’clock position.
Craftsmanship on Display
True to its roots, the UJ-1 Tourbillon is a testament to the brand’s commitment to traditional watchmaking. The tourbillon, a complication that was invented to counteract the effects of gravity on a watch’s accuracy, is a visual representation of Urban Jürgensen’s horological expertise. It’s not just a technical marvel but a piece of kinetic art, a tiny ballet that plays out over the course of a minute, again and again.
The movement powering this watch, the manually wound Jürgensen Calibre 1741, is equally impressive. Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, it reveals a world of intricate details, including bridges adorned with Côtes de Genève striping, blued screws, and a stunning hand-engraved balance cock. It also boasts a power reserve of 72 hours.
Celebrating a Milestone
The UJ-1 Tourbillon is more than just a timepiece; it’s a celebration of the brand’s rich history. Urban Jürgensen, founded in 1773, has a heritage that spans over two and a half centuries. The brand has weathered the storms of time, from the advent of quartz watches to the rise of smartwatches, and yet, it has managed to stay true to its roots, crafting mechanical timepieces of the highest caliber.
Final Thoughts
The Urban Jürgensen UJ-1 Tourbillon is undoubtedly a fitting tribute to the brand’s 250-year journey. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of traditional watchmaking in a digital age. With its timeless design, meticulous craftsmanship, and horological significance, the UJ-1 Tourbillon is a watch that will appeal to serious collectors and casual enthusiasts alike.
As Urban Jürgensen celebrates its 250th anniversary, the UJ-1 Tourbillon is a reminder of the brand’s glorious past and a promise of its bright future. It marks the return of a legend, and we can’t wait to see what Urban Jürgensen has in store for us next.
Source reference: https://urbanjurgensen.com/products/uj-1
