Here we have yet another unconventional wristwatch from the Geneva-based watch manufacturer known for shaking things up. Urwerk’s latest addition is interestingly designed skeletonized timepiece dubbed EMC TimeHunter X-Ray.
The first EMC watch was introduced in 2013 and many were suspicious whether it was a serious timepiece or not. This concept was completely new and its innovative EMC module (Electro Mechanical Control) makes this watch the world’s first timepiece with artificial intelligence. So far, the EMC model has appeared in several different variants, including the newest TimeHunter X-Ray Watch.
This exceptional newcomer combines a classic mechanical movement with a cutting-edge electronic module that controls its pace. This quite unusual complication offers its future owner to adjust his timekeeping companion if it is running fast or slow, as well as to get information about the amplitude of its balance.
In case that rate error is detected, the wearer can then regulate the movement via a screw on the back, thus eliminating the need to visit a watchmaker as would be the case for regular movements. Still, if something goes wrong with the amplitude, then the watchmaker’s skills are required.
The X-Ray in the name stands for its skeletonized dial that offers a look inside its fascinating mechanics. Besides the fact that it is a high-tech model, the EMC also stands apart for being the only Urwerk timepiece that shows time the old school way – with a pair of hands. The time is displayed on the central dial, whilst the rate monitor is set at the eleven o’clock, with the seconds at the one o’clock position. A fan-styled scale at eight o’clock is the 80-hour power reserve display.
The Urwerk TimeHunter X-Ray is based on the TimeHunter edition which was presented earlier this year at the SIHH 2016. The new watch houses the case combined from titanium and steel parts with a black PVD finish. The case measures 43mm x 51mm with the thickness of 15.8mm.
From the rear, the sapphire case back shows the inner beauty of the hand-wound movement, as well as the adjustment screw and the push-piece at the bottom of the dial between the lugs that releases the winding crown. Furthermore, the future owner of this exceptional watch can see the cover of the twin barrels that houses the optical sensors measuring the oscillations.
The Urwerk TimeHunter X-Ray is produced in the limited series of only 15 specimens. The retail price is 125,000 Swiss francs (approximately $130,000).