Sometimes the clock takes a long time to sink into the land on my desk. When I first looked at Makina Azazel_i, I knew it was one of them. You can quickly learn that it is a futuristic watch created with a concept that is not similar to its center. This design combines an amazing case with an abstract dial to make it a watch that people probably like or dislike. After sinking the look a bit, I took Makina Azazel_i for a spin and checked the details.
When I first saw the watch it reminded me of the Makina Mephisto_III GMT model I reviewed earlier this year. I vividly remember the first watches from the Philippine brand, but they were not as luxurious as Azazel_i. This new watch takes a bold approach and is rather brutal in its execution. It features a sandblasted engraved stainless steel case. Adding a futuristic dial makes this look like a clock that survived an apocalyptic situation. Let’s take a closer look at Makina azazel_i.
The story of Makina Azazel_i
Makina azazel_i has a 40mm 316L stainless steel case with a 12.2mm profile and 46mm lug-to-lug. As mentioned before, this case comes with a sandblast finish. Even the caseback has a sandblasted steel texture, making the appearance look even overall. The case also has a one-way 60-minute bezel that rotates with 120 solid clicks. It’s easy to grip and very satisfying to turn the bezel. It’s proof of the great build quality of the watch.
The topping for the case is a dome-shaped sapphire crystal with a three-layer anti-erective coating. It makes time easier to read from any angle. Speaking of which, the multi-layer brass dial with a sand-textured finish is an amazing piece. In addition to the black base, it has a white circular shape made up of six parts, with three parts on each side. The edges of these loose components form markers at even hours. The center of the dial is equipped with a concave circle that connects to three striped time markers. The final three indices at 1, 5 and 10 o’clock are embedded dots, completing the notable set.
The dial is a future work
Another notable feature is the small second spinning disc at 6 o’clock. It features a slightly illuminated cutout dot and strip to show the seconds. Its style matches modern mobile phones with bright circles. They have similar hands for hours and minutes, with the minutes being slightly longer. Both have a white room that glows light blue, with a circular shape, a small second indicator and a logo on the top half of the dial. It immediately stands out, an abstract piece that is not for fans of traditional dials.
Finishing the look of the watch is a lovely, supple gray silicone strap with sandblasted buckle. The straps feature many rectangular holes, making it easy to fit your wrist. The hole pattern also adds a visual aspect that I like.
Within the case, Machina chose to use the Sellita SW260-1. This automatic caliber is the standard SW200-1 version with an adjusted layout to display small seconds. The movement runs at 28,800 VPH, has 31 gems and offers a 42-hour power reserve.
I’m wearing Makina azazel_i
My first impression of Makina Azazel_i was that it felt like a bit of a foreigner. That was due to the sandblasted case on the back, which creates a strange, rough feeling on the wrist. But once I got used to it, I was able to focus on the watch’s notable looks. What stands out is that the case ratio is perfect for my 18.5cm wrist. Despite the appearance of the carved sculpture, the watch doesn’t feel too big or look too big. That’s a big plus.
However, I had to get used to setting the time too. Even and uneven time indexes are not on the same scale, so practicing was required to properly navigate the dial. But I also quickly found the charm in this little visual puzzle. It fits into the futuristic nature of the watch and adds a fun twist to the brutal concept. Despite the modest size of the screw-down crown, it’s easy to look at. Knurling and sandblasting finish make it extremely easy to operate.
Final thoughts
The flexible silicone straps helped make Makina azazel_i a joy to wear. The straps are comfortable and extremely supple, but sturdy enough to balance the wrist watch. Once on my wrist I began to appreciate the engraving of the case. As you can see, it’s nothing other than average.
It feels an angle, but not sharp. The shape is elegant yet straightforward, and I have an interesting experience wearing the Azazel_i. Design may not be suitable for everyone, but I feel it will be a welcome on the wrist once. As mentioned before, this is a watch that most people are likely to like or hate based solely on the basis of their appearance, but it was great to experience how it grew into me.
Overall, I was having fun wearing this new Makina Azazel_i. It was a great break from a more general design and I loved it. What’s more, it was great to conclude that watches are not just about design. It also sits comfortably on your wrist, making it much easier to find love for design.
Therefore, admiration for Machina for creating watches that combine bold, futuristic design with excellent wearability. This USD 900 watch is for those who like something different. If you get the chance, I recommend checking out the new azazel_i. For US-based readers, the earliest possibilities would be to intersect the brand’s existence Windup Chicago (July 11-13) and Los Angeles (July 18-19). I recommend watching as you will be surprised.
Find the complete collection on Makina’s official website. Also see more about Azazel_i.
This is a partnership post. Read about transparency here.
