The Dramatic Revival of Urban Jürgensen Led by Finnish Watchmaker, Kari Voutilainen

Urban Jürgensen, a quintessential pillar in Danish horology, experienced a relaunch that harkened to the likes of A. Lange & Söhne’s renaissance. The grand affair, held in an aircraft hangar in Los Angeles, greeted a throng of entertainers, sports giants, and 1990s fashion luminaries, all drawn together to witness the revamping of an esteemed, 275-year-old brand.

At the heart of it all was Kari Voutilainen, a skilled yet unassuming Finnish watchmaker. Until that moment, he had been best recognized within devotee circles for his intricate commitment to horology. Yet through Urban Jürgensen, he found himself amidst an event befitting of horological titans like Cartier and Patek. His role, however, extended far beyond the spectacle. As Co-CEO, Voutilainen’s responsibilities encompassed overseeing the watchmaking operations crucial to the revitalization. His stamp was evident in the three exceptional watches released during the launch, each representing a different chapter in the brand’s storied history.

Voutilainen’s connection with Urban Jürgensen stretches back decades. His first interaction being in 1996 at an exhibition sponsored by Girard-Perregaux in La Chaux-de-Fonds. It was here where the young watchmaker, armed with just his first tourbillon pocket watch, would cross paths with Urban Jürgensen, a moment that would go on to shape his future, and that of the venerable Danish brand.