The Filipino microbrand Makina returns with the new Makina Cassiel II model.
The second version is almost unrecognizable from the original Cassiel. However, it now aligns much more with Makina's signature style, which is a positive aspect. Let's take a closer look at this striking example of a brutalist chronograph with a focus on design.
Launch and Price of Makina Cassiel II
The Makina Cassiel II goes on pre-sale today at a price of $1,850 USD. Customers who pre-order will receive the watch starting August 10. After the pre-sale ends, the price will increase to "$2,100 USD and up," which sounds rather daunting. In other words, if this model interests you, it's best to act quickly.
Features of the Makina Brand
Makina has always stood out with its unconventional approach. Instead of drawing inspiration from vintage tool watches or well-known luxury sports models, the Filipino brand views its creations from an industrial design perspective. This has allowed them to create truly unique watches, and the new Makina Cassiel II continues this trend.
The first thing that catches the eye is how different the new model is from the original Cassiel. The name has stayed the same, but almost everything else has changed. Cassiel II better reflects Makina's modern visual language. If you're familiar with the brand's angular cases and architectural approach to dial design, this model will be immediately understandable.
From the brand's biography on the website, a phrase stands out: "With a slight lean towards form over function, our design combines industrial brutality with restrained elegance." Prioritizing form over function is quite a controversial idea. While many watch brands operate in this manner, openly declaring it is a bold step. Most manufacturers try to justify design with functionality, but here there is an unusual freedom.
New Makina Cassiel II - Flagship with Automatic Chronograph
The Makina Cassiel II is the brand's new flagship model and its first automatic chronograph. Despite the recognizable 7750 movement layout, Makina has significantly transformed the design. As a result, the watch looks more like industrial equipment rather than a traditional chronograph. Sharp edges, contrasting surfaces, and unconventional indicator placement form a unique image.
The 42 mm case features a 40 mm bezel and a lug-to-lug distance of 48 mm. These dimensions indicate a substantial size, but Makina has worked to visually reduce the bulk. Angular sides and a tapered rear case break up the thickness, while the sandblasted finish gives Cassiel II a sculptural look. Polished accents create contrast without softening the overall design. I’m curious to see the model in person to understand how much it reduces the perception of size.
One notable detail is the integrated rubber strap. Instead of symmetry between the top and bottom parts, Makina intentionally gave them different textures. This asymmetry might seem artificial, but it harmonizes with the overall design concept. The strap looks like an extension of the case.
Technical Specifications of Makina Cassiel II
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Case | 316L stainless steel with sandblasted finish and polished bevels |
| Case Diameter | 42 mm (bezel - 40 mm), lug-to-lug length - 48 mm, thickness - 15 mm |
| Crystal | Domed sapphire with beveled edge and triple-layer anti-reflective coating |
| Crown | Screw-down |
| Water Resistance | 100 meters (10 ATM) |
| Strap | Integrated rubber with texture, quick-release spring bars, sandblasted clasp |
| Case Back | 316L stainless steel with sandblasted finish and sapphire glass, secured with four screws |
| Movement | Valjoux (ETA) 7750: automatic chronograph with manual winding and hacking seconds, 28,800 vph (4 Hz), 44-48 hours power reserve, 25 jewels, custom black rotor |
| Functions | Hours, minutes, seconds, chronograph, day, date |
| Price | $1,850 (pre-sale) / from $2,100 (retail) |
Movement and Dial
At the heart of the watch is the Valjoux/ETA 7750 automatic chronograph, known since the 1970s and still one of the most common calibers. It operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour and provides a power reserve of about 44-48 hours. The functionality includes running seconds, chronograph minutes and hours, central chronograph seconds hand, as well as day and date indicators. The placement of indicators - the date and day window at "3 o'clock" and three subdials at "6", "9", and "12" - is classic and easily recognizable.
Makina added a custom black rotor with a sunburst effect, visible through the transparent case back. At the time of writing, it is unknown who exactly produces this caliber, as ETA has stopped supplying it to microbrands.
The dial stands out against most chronographs. Instead of traditional subdials, rotating discs and cutouts are used, integrated into a multi-layer structure. The matte black surface with a graphite tint effectively minimizes reflections. Short polished appliqués create contrast, and the generous Super-LumiNova coating ensures good legibility in the dark. Overall, the dial design adds depth and volume.
Final Impressions of Makina Cassiel II
The main advantage of the Makina Cassiel II is its uniqueness. Many independent brands claim originality but often follow known patterns. Makina takes more risks, and these watches clearly reflect this approach.
At the same time, Cassiel II won't be for everyone. The angular case, industrial style, and unconventional element placement leave no room for neutral perception. Such a design might seem overly contrived. However, in an oversaturated watch market, standing out is often the best choice.
At a price of $1,850 during the pre-sale, the Makina Cassiel II competes in a highly competitive segment. Your interest will likely depend on the design rather than the technical specifications. For collectors looking for truly unusual models, this novelty deserves attention.
Your Opinion on Makina Cassiel II
What do you think of the Makina Cassiel II? Share your thoughts in the comments!