Dear watch aficionado.
With the presentation of this unique timepiece, I would like to celebrate the 100th anniversary of Dr. George Daniels, and underline or demonstrate the close relationship between Peter Baumberger, the owner of Urban Jürgensen, George Daniels and Derek Pratt, two of the greatest watchmakers of our time.
The three often met in Solothurn at the hotel “La Couronne” to discuss the progress of the co-axial project. From time to time, my mentor and good friend Helmut Crott was present at those meetings.
The high estimation for Derek Pratt, Peter Baumberger and the historical watch brand Urban Jürgensen motivated Daniels to choose an Urban Jürgensen reference 1 to implement a prototype of his co-axial escapement. This unique watch was on display at the 1986 Basel Fair, where Daniels went public for the first time with his co-axial escapement. Derek played certainly a role in the development of the co-axial escapement and for sure a key role in the sale of the escapement to the Swatch group. The co-axial escapement should become an important argument for the repositioning of Omega as a leading premium brand in the watch world.
I am truly honoured to be allowed to show you this historically important timepiece. Unfortunately, I didn’t know Mr. Daniels, Mr. Pratt, nor Mr. Baumberger personally. But from all the discussions with Helmut, I can only imagine what a great time it must have been.
Not for sale.
Kind regards.
ChB
