URWERK unveils exclusive high-flying EMC SR-71
Tribute to the iconic SR-71 Blackbird
High-end watchmaker URWERK has unveiled the EMC SR-71, a tribute to the legendary US Air Force’s SR-71 Blackbird high-altitude reconnaissance aircraft. With this exceptional new model, Geneva-based URWERK marks a decade of high-end horological innovation in the Swiss watchmaking industry.
Initially introduced in 2014, URWERK’s EMC (Electronic Mechanical Control) revolutionised watchmaking by integrating a groundbreaking feature: the δ performance indicator. This patented technology allows wearers to measure their watch’s accuracy in real-time, enabling precise adjustments for perfect timekeeping.
The EMC’s pioneering design earned it multiple accolades, including wins in the Mechanical Exception and Innovation categories at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève.
URWERK has partnered with Dreamland—a duo of watch enthusiast Jason Sarkoyan and aeronautics expert Dr Roman Sperl—to craft a limited edition EMC SR-71. The new model, a stunning fusion of high-flying history and cutting-edge technology, is encased in titanium pieces from the SR-71’s fuselage, combining the precision of high-altitude reconnaissance with the sophistication of haute horology.
Shared passion
Sarkoyan and Sperl, driven by a passion for fine mechanics and aerospace, envisioned an exceptional tribute to the EMC’s tenth anniversary. Their vision materialised after three years of collaboration, transforming the SR-71’s aerospace materials into the watch’s charging crank and design elements.
“It’s a bit of an insane story, yet at the same time, stories born of passion are the most beautiful,” said Sarkoyan, reflecting on the journey. “I threw myself headlong into this adventure, knowing I had the expertise of Dr Sperl alongside me.”
The EMC SR-71, limited to just ten pieces, features a striking design inspired by the SR-71’s cockpit. The watch face mimics the aircraft’s instrument panel, with four dials presenting time, power reserve, and the signature δ performance indicator. The second indicator, styled like the SR-71’s stealthy nose, highlights the watch’s commitment to precision.
URWERK’s artistic director and co-founder, Martin Frei, elaborates on the design philosophy: “A watch, like an aircraft, is a machine that provides information about its performance. The watch face is a personal cockpit; in addition to the exact time, the EMC also provides information about how it works and how it is ‘piloted’.”
Frei’s fascination with science fiction and aviation fueled his enthusiasm for this project, culminating in a piece that blends horological excellence with aeronautical engineering.
The EMC SR-71 houses an in-house URWERK movement, rigorously tested to meet the highest standards. Its performance is continuously monitored using sophisticated optical sensors and a 16,000,000 Hz electronic oscillator, ensuring unrivalled precision.
Key features of the EMC SR-71 include:
- Case Material: Titanium and steel with SR-71 alloy crank handle.
- Dimensions: 47.55mm width, 49.57mm length, 17.58mm thickness.
- Movement: UR-EMC; ARCAP P40 balance with optical sensor; 28,800 vph frequency.
- Power Reserve: 80 hours, with manually wound, series-coupled double mainspring barrels.
- Price: $174,493 (exclusive of tax).
Featured image: The EMC SR-71 is a tribute to horological innovation and the spirit of the iconic SR-71 Blackbird. Credit: URWERK
