The Urwerk EMC SR-71 is a horological marvel that pushes the boundaries of traditional watchmaking, seamlessly blending the worlds of aviation and precision engineering. This limited edition timepiece, with only ten pieces in existence, is a tribute to the iconic SR-71 Blackbird, an aircraft renowned for its speed, stealth, and cutting-edge design. The EMC SR-71 captures the spirit of this legendary plane, incorporating elements of its fuselage into the watch’s construction and presenting a timepiece that is as much a work of art as it is a feat of engineering.
At the core of the EMC SR-71 is Urwerk’s in-house movement, a testament to the brand’s dedication to innovation and craftsmanship. This movement has been developed and tested to meet the highest precision standards, ensuring the watch delivers accurate timekeeping. The dial layout, inspired by the SR-71’s cockpit, features four separate dials that provide a wealth of information to the wearer. These include a seconds indicator with a stealth aircraft design, a performance display showing seconds per day, a power reserve indicator, and a classic hours and minutes display. Integrating these features creates a unique and immersive experience, allowing the wearer to engage with the watch on a deeper level.
The EMC SR-71’s exterior is just as impressive as its interior. The watch is crafted from titanium enhanced by elements from the SR-71’s fuselage, giving it a direct connection to the aircraft that inspired it. This titanium has been melted down and reworked into a charging crank for the EMC’s dynamo, adding an extra layer of authenticity and intrigue. The watch’s matte black finish, reminiscent of the SR-71’s stealthy appearance, further enhances its bold and sophisticated aesthetic.
One of the standout features of the Urwerk EMC SR-71 is its adjustable timing screw, which allows for extremely fine adjustments to the watch’s performance. This screw is accessible from the outside of the watch, making it easy for the wearer to tweak the balance rate index regulator and modify the active length of the balance spring. This level of precision is rarely seen in modern timepieces, highlighting Urwerk’s commitment to creating beautiful and functional watches.
The watch is powered by a double barrel drive unit mounted vertically on a single shaft, which ensures stable linear timing performance and provides an impressive 80-hour power reserve. Using ARCAP, a non-magnetic and anti-corrosive alloy, in the balance and other components further enhances the watch’s durability and reliability. These features, combined with the watch’s reinforced chassis and bespoke suspension, make the EMC SR-71 a timepiece built to last.
For collectors and enthusiasts alike, the Urwerk EMC SR-71 represents the pinnacle of modern watchmaking. Its limited production run ensures its exclusivity, while its connection to the SR-71 Blackbird gives it a unique place in the world of horology. Whether worn on the wrist or displayed as a collector’s item, the Urwerk EMC SR-71 is a timepiece that commands attention and admiration, embodying the very best of Urwerk’s design philosophy.
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