Not all images were able to load for printing. Please close the print window and try again. Makina Raum I
A big, bold watch, built like a tank from Filipino watch brand Makina.
Hearing the name Makina might not make you think of watches immediately, but this young brand is working hard to find its place in the industry. Makina, which translates to “Machine”, unexpectedly comes from Manilla, in the Philippines. Some years ago, we presented the Uriel, now in its third interpretation, and the Mephisto. Now we take a look at perhaps the boldest of the bunch, the Makina Raum I.
The design for the Makina Raum I is rather unconventional. This all starts with the shape of the case but carries on to the dial as well. The case is 42mm wide in stainless steel with an octagonal shape. The circular central barrel, holding the dial and movement, is flanked with shaped side components for a unique look. The unusual placement of the crown, positioned between the lugs at 6 o’clock, adds to the boldness of the piece while a polished bezel and domed sapphire crystal complete the case.
The surfaces of the case are alternatingly brushed and polished. On the side of the case is an inscription with the brand’s name. Makina has taken inspiration from the shape of a revolver’s cylinder for the dial. It features a deeply recessed sector style with metallic Arabic numerals for every odd hour. Recessed concave shapes indicate the even hours. Look at it head-on, and you do get that revolver-vibe. The hands are gold plated for a strong contrast.
The Makina Raum I is fitted with a Sellita SW200-1, where previous collections were equipped with Miyota movements. The SW200-1 movement has proven to be a dependable one, running at a frequency of 28,800vph and providing 38 hours of power reserve. It is visible through the caseback, which forms a solid part with the sides of the case. The sapphire crystal is decorated with a stylized print of the dial’s outline and the Makina logo.
Interestingly the Raum I is very reasonably priced, especially during the pre-order campaign, at USD 599. This is the same price the other collections are priced at, yet it will now get you a Swiss Made movement. The price will increase by at least USD 100 at retail, though, so it remains to be seen how big the offset will be. Nevertheless, at this level of watchmaking, you get a watch with some interesting specifications and a pretty unique design.
More information at MakinaWatches.com
3 responses
Woohoo Manila! FYI, this is currently the best looking watch brand from my country. I don’t know how I missed this release.
Good looking piece. It’s refreshing to see new watch brands still trying to make new designs and not simply regurgitating the same old formulas.
Bold indeed. I like it. A nice break from the plethora of homage designs sold as “new”.