I’ve always been a supporter of start-ups, small operations and even underdogs. I don’t know what triggers it but it feels warm and fuzzy inside to be able to contribute and support the growth of a thing. As a watch enthusiast, I find myself buying local watch brands (I’m from the Philippines) in my attempt to support the local watch industry. Through the years I get to collect a handful of watches proudly made in the Philippines – ranging from the typical diver, dress watch, field watch, etc – using the usual case design and calibre. Until Makina.

Makina is a Filipino word for machine. Its a family run operation. They proudly highlight that all of their parts are designed from scratch and movements are customized Swiss calibers. I’ve always been fascinated with Makina’s design language – from the case size, shape and dimensions. But the biggest factor that differentiate Makina from its contemporaries is its dial.

So when I got the opportunity to get my hands on one of the first Makina Uriel V pieces – I just had to get it. I am now sharing my initial take and experience of wearing Makina…

What Worked
* Dimensions – they got this one perfectly. At 38mm case size , 44mm lug to lug and thin case of 11mm. This is definitely a friendly watch for small wrists (i have a 6.5” wrist as a reference)
* Design – I like the unique design (case and dial) which I don’t believe any other local microbrand has this style.
* Dial – oh this is a big take away…. Its a chameleon! Makina calls it Charcoal… but depends on the light. It sometimes shows a hint of purple, light grey and even black. The multi layer dial design is a plus! 3D rendering for sure!
* Finishing – highly polished and I thought it was a good execution. 2 thumbs up!

What to Consider
* Strap – I think they can do better with the default leather strap in comes with. The watch head is way better vs the strap in my opinion
* Clasp – sorry, this was the weak point of the watch. I thought it was flimsy. Let’s get something strong and sturdy so we have abetter performing clasp in your next release.

Would these misses be deal breakers for the Makina Uriel V?

Nope! I’d still get it in a heartbeat! The watch head is that strong!

For now I’ll be honeymooning with the Makina Uriel V.