Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. The New Generation Maghnam Mohareb, a Transformative Timepiece
A watch with a modular case and a bi-retrograde display, blending futuristic design, engineering and cultural identity.
Maghnam operates within an area that few independent brands genuinely explore. Urwerk, MB&F or even Hautlence have long defined the idea of futuristic, space-age watchmaking. Sohaib Maghnam, Qatar-based founder of Maghnam Watches, approaches the concept from a different angle. His watches are not only about unconventional displays, bold mechanics, form, structure, but also about, importantly, cultural identity. Trained as a mechanical engineer, Maghnam pursued an automotive career at first before dedicating himself to watchmaking, and so he treats the watch as a three-dimensional object in motion, closer to a machine or body armour than a traditional instrument.
The Makina, revealed in 2020, already hinted at modularity and sculptural construction. Since then, Maghnam has refined his work, balancing expressive design with engineering. His parallel role as CEO and Creative Director of Beda’a, with the GPHG-recognised Eclipse 1, shows an ability to combine classical restraint and avant-garde experimentation. The Mohareb, meaning “fighter” or “gladiator” in Arabic, has become the essential expression of the designer’s vision. Now presenting the new generation, the concept evolves, but the core idea remains: a watch designed like a suit of armour, this time executed with greater versatility and technical maturity.
The Maghnam Mohareb Gen-II comes in a 39.5mm 904L stainless steel case, featuring superior corrosion resistance and a higher density than standard 316L steel. The case has a maximum thickness of 8.6mm, tapering dramatically to 3.5mm at the edges. At first glance, the watch appears way too bold and very architectural; on the wrist, it feels unexpectedly slim and light, at just 43.5 grams. Achieving this balance required advanced machining, with certain case sections reduced to less than 0.28mm in thickness.
What defines the Mohareb, however, is its modular design. The central case is a core unit, onto which three external modules can be attached: Blades, Halo and Wings. The Blades configuration is the most aggressive, with sharp, protective extensions evoking armour plates. Halo softens the watch into a more traditional round shape, while Wings introduces an elongated, almost organic oval form. The earlier generation also offered an Armor to turn Mohareb into a pocket watch; perhaps this option will be added later for the updated model.
The transformation is quick and mechanically secured through the caseback. It is a concept that feels closer to industrial design or automotive bodywork than to traditional watchmaking, and one that remains largely unique in the industry; only Hegid watches come to mind, which also explore a transformation idea. Water resistance is 10m, clearly positioning the Mohareb as a design object driven by mechanics and narrative. It aligns more closely with experimental independents than with conventional luxury sports models.
The dial, launched in Argent Crimson and Deep Blue colourways, is not a separate element but an integrated part of the construction. The sapphire crystal reveals a layered, seemingly skeletal construction, with surfaces alternating between brushed, sandblasted and polished finishes.
Time is displayed via a bi-retrograde system. The hours sweep across a 120-degree arc before snapping back instantly, while the minutes are indicated on a vertical linear track at the top of the dial. This vertical display is not only unusual but also reinforces the helmet-like symmetry of the watch. The movement is crisp and precise, adding a dynamic dimension that complements the watch’s futuristic character.
The watch is powered by the calibre MCR01-B, based on the Sellita SW210 hand-wound movement and featuring a proprietary Maghnam module. With a 42-hour power reserve, the movement remains practical while delivering a distinctive visual experience. Despite its conceptual design, the Mohareb has been engineered for daily wear. The lightweight, compact diameter and slim profile make it far more comfortable on the wrist than its appearance might suggest. Strap options include alligator leather, sailcloth and bespoke alternatives.
Priced at CHF 7,200 (excl. VAT), the new-generation Mohareb is a compelling proposition. It combines an original modular construction, a retrograde display and a strong, culturally rooted design language. For more details, please visit maghnam.com.
