Makina Azazel_I: A Fusion of Futuristic Design and GMT Functionality

Makina's Azazel_I GMT model represents a compelling evolution, building upon the distinctive aesthetic and comfortable design of its predecessor. This latest iteration successfully integrates a GMT complication, demonstrating how innovative design can coexist with practical functionality. The timepiece not only retains the original's futuristic charm but also enhances its utility, making it a noteworthy contender in the world of microbrand watches. Its thoughtful engineering and unique visual presentation set it apart, offering enthusiasts a fresh perspective on timekeeping.

The Makina Azazel_I GMT: A Deeper Dive into Design and Mechanics

Unveiled approximately a year after its time-only counterpart, the Makina Azazel_I GMT introduces advanced time zone tracking to the brand's signature aesthetic. This model, released in September 2026, maintains the established 40mm diameter, 12.2mm thickness, and 46mm lug-to-lug dimensions, ensuring that the integration of a GMT function does not compromise its wearable profile. The case, crafted from sandblasted stainless steel, features a unidirectional 120-click bezel with a 60-minute scale, distinguished by its dark gray initial 15 minutes and lighter silver for the remainder. This design choice, coupled with the knurled finish, provides both tactile satisfaction and ease of use. The watch's angular yet softened edges contribute to its industrial-chic appeal without sacrificing comfort, while the modestly sized crown remains effortlessly operable.

The dial of the Azazel_I GMT continues the brand's innovative use of rotating discs for display, evolving from the seconds disc in the previous model to incorporate date and a second time zone windows. Fabricated from multilayered brass with a sand-textured finish, the dial utilizes a striking palette of white, blue, black, and bright orange to differentiate its various indicators. A white luminous circle, sectioned into six parts, marks the even hours against a blue backdrop, replacing the prior black. An inner blue ring with white minute hashes and bold orange markers further enhances readability for five-minute intervals. At the three o'clock position, a date window features black numerals on a white background, highlighted by an orange marker with a blue triangular pointer. The most captivating feature is the central black rotating disc, which, through two cutouts, displays a second time zone. This disc ingeniously uses a day/night division, showing white numerals on black for nighttime and black on black for daytime. A circular cutout dynamically shifts color—orange for day, white for night—as it traverses the 24-hour scale, offering a playful yet functional representation of time. The hands are modern, with the minute hand slightly longer than the hour hand, both featuring luminous tips. The seconds hand also incorporates luminescence. All orange markings on the dial emit a green glow in low light, while white elements, including the logo, radiate a bright blue.

Driving this sophisticated display is the Miyota 9075 caliber, a 24-jewel automatic GMT movement operating at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offering a 42-hour power reserve. This flyer-style GMT movement allows for independent adjustment of the 12-hour hand, making it ideal for travelers. Setting local time is as simple as pulling the crown to the first position and rotating it. The second crown position controls both the hour and minute hands, along with the 24-hour disc and day/night indicator, while the seconds hand halts for precise synchronization. Once set, the screw-down crown ensures water resistance. The Miyota 9075 maintains an accuracy of -10 to +30 seconds per day. The watch is presented on a 22mm blue silicone strap, equipped with quick-release pins for easy customization. The strap's brushed stainless steel buckle complements the overall design, even if it doesn't precisely match the sandblasted case finish. Available for US$990, the Makina Azazel_I GMT offers an accessible entry point into sophisticated GMT functionality, with taxes included for purchasers in the United States and the Philippines.

The launch of the Makina Azazel_I GMT signifies a notable achievement in the independent watchmaking scene. This timepiece goes beyond merely telling time; it embodies a creative vision that transforms a functional complication into an integral part of its unique aesthetic. For enthusiasts of distinctive and well-crafted watches, this model stands as a testament to innovation, proving that originality and quality can indeed come at an accessible price. It reinforces Makina's reputation for producing watches that not only capture attention but also deliver on the promise of thoughtful design and reliable performance. This piece genuinely encourages wearers to think differently about how time can be represented, offering a refreshing alternative in a market often dominated by conventional designs.