George Daniels – Urban Jürgensen Reference 1 co-axial

This unique watch is shown in honour of the 100th anniversary of Dr. George Daniels, and as a reminder of the close relationship between Peter Baumberger, owner of Urban Jürgensen, George Daniels and Derek Pratt, two of the greatest watchmakers of our time.

The three men met regularly in Solothurn, at the hotel La Couronne, to discuss progress on the co-axial project. From time to time Dr. Helmut Crott, our mentor and friend, joined those meetings.

Daniels held Derek Pratt, Peter Baumberger and the historic Urban Jürgensen name in high regard, and that is why he chose an Urban Jürgensen Reference 1 to carry a prototype of his co-axial escapement. The watch was on display at the 1986 Basel Fair, where Daniels first presented the co-axial escapement to the public. Pratt certainly played a part in its development and, we believe, a key role in the sale of the escapement to the Swatch Group. The co-axial escapement then became an important argument in the repositioning of Omega as a leading premium brand.

We did not know Mr. Daniels, Mr. Pratt or Mr. Baumberger personally, but from many conversations with Helmut we can imagine what those years must have been like. It is an honour to show this historically important watch.

Not for sale.