Welcome to another review.
Today, we focus on the world of microbrand wristwatches, specifically on the new Canadian startup Acizem Watches. Recently, we reviewed the Michel GMT model from the Canadian brand Tesse, which impressed us with its thoughtfulness and creativity. Now, Acizem has released its first model called Enygmah, which is in our studio. This model elevates creativity to a new level but loses the classic restraint we appreciated in Tesse watches.
Unique Case Shape
The Enygmah case is maximally rounded, yet it lacks traditional lugs for bracelet attachment. Instead, a distinctive T-shaped connection is welded to the case. The bracelet attaches to this protruding part with a large pin. To conceal some elements of the design from above, a steel butterfly-shaped piece is placed over this connection, creating a hidden attachment effect. This solution raises doubts regarding aesthetics, strength, and the effectiveness of attaching a metal bracelet.
Besides the absence of lugs, the case retains a familiar round shape that smoothly extends beyond the domed glass, creating the illusion of a bezel, even though one doesn't actually exist. The case thickness is 13.5 mm, but visually it seems larger - around 15 mm due to the convex glass. Another contentious element is the crown, fully enclosed by a steel rim, reminiscent of the protection on Panerai Luminor watches, but more massive. This complicates time adjustment and winding, though it appears more elegant and less industrial in style.
It's important to note that such design decisions do not make the watch bad, but they emphasize its intentional uniqueness and departure from standards. Sometimes rethinking classics does not lead to success, while at other times it creates something unique and useful for a narrow audience - Enygmah falls into this category.
Comfort and Wrist Fit
Despite the experimental case shape, the watch sits very comfortably on the wrist. The bracelet attachment allows it to snugly fit the wrist without gaps and play, as the bracelet can slightly bend down from the connection point. For such a massive model, I was pleasantly surprised by the comfort and appearance of the watch during daily wear. The weight is noticeable but does not cause discomfort or create pressure points even on a wrist with a 16.5 cm circumference.
Build Quality and Dial Design
The price of the Enygmah model is 891 Canadian dollars - comparable to the Tissot PRX Automatic. Therefore, it's important to understand what you're paying for. Firstly, it's the unique design that stands out among competitors. Secondly, the build quality is decent, though it doesn't surpass counterparts in this price segment.
The watch feels good in hand and on the wrist, feeling solid without visible signs of material cost-cutting. The case and bracelet are made of 316L stainless steel with a polished finish that looks nice but not outstanding. The central links of the bracelet have a matte finish, done neatly and well.
The dial is the most understated part of the design. In our version, it is painted in a light icy blue shade, with options also available in dark blue, black, and bronze colors.
The dial surface features radial brushing emanating from the center, creating a ray effect. The hands are wide-shaped, partially skeletonized, providing good readability and ease of perception. At the "6 o'clock" position is a small seconds subdial. The dial features only five Arabic numerals and elongated applied baton markers with round luminescent dots on the outer edge.
The outer ring of the dial is adorned with a partial guilloché pattern, enhancing the model's vintage feel. The only debatable element is the plaque with the model name and technical specifications of the Miyota 82S5 movement, located at "6 o'clock" - it appears somewhat unimpressive.
Final Conclusions
Enygmah is one of the most unusual watches I've reviewed recently. While I acknowledge that there is a certain audience of collectors interested in such unconventional design, confidence in this is low. The watch combines old-world charm with a modern, almost overly engineered look.
Personally, this model is not my optimal choice, but I appreciate the efforts and dedication of the developers in creating a unique product. The build quality is solid and well-thought-out. If you're a fan of microbrands and prefer unconventional, original solutions, this watch might be an interesting addition to your collection.