Hands-On With The Surprising Makina Andras_II Gray

Makina is a brand that has repeatedly challenged us with its modern creations. They are sometimes brutalistic, sometimes futuristic, but always pushing the boundaries of watch design. With the new Andras_II, the Filipino brand has updated its take on a classic dress watch. Just one glance at the Andras_II Gray immediately told me there was a lot to uncover with this piece. Is it even a dress watch or simply a modern rectangular watch? Let’s find out.

I got my first taste of Makina watches with the Mephisto_III GMT early last year. The modern GMT showed some intriguing design solutions that I enjoyed. Later in the year, I spent some time with the futuristic-looking Makina Azazel_I. While it is a resolutely modern watch in its presence, the materials and the application of lume also make it a fun take on a daily wearer. As you will understand, Makina’s creations are not for everyone. If you are into your classic timepieces, chances are the brand pushes the boundaries a bit too hard. But if you like new interpretations of classic watch styles, then Makina is most definitely worth checking out. The new Andras_II is further proof of that, and it might just be my favorite watch from Makina so far.

The story of the Makina Andras_II

As you might have guessed, the Andras_II is the second iteration of this model. Compared to the first one, the brand has refined the design slightly, although there have been no major changes overall.

The Andras_II features a beautifully sculpted “rectangular” case with a 33mm diameter, a 44mm length, and an 11.5mm thickness. I say “rectangular” because, while the polished bezel is a rectangle, the flanks make the whole case look like more of an elongated octagon. The thing that immediately stood out to me is the combination of round and angular shapes that work very well together. Additionally, the mix of brushed and polished finishes highlights the case’s distinctive design.

A great example is how the polished rectangular bezel contrasts with the beautiful rounded case flanks. Another great detail is how the brushed case flanks transition to the lugs steeply. Despite that sudden drop, there is still a nice, elegant flow to it, and I adore how the lugs’ polished finish emphasizes this.

The principle of using distinct shapes and angles while ensuring they flow nicely is executed exceptionally well. The drop from the bezel to the lugs is also rather steep, but the short lugs ensure nice proportions and keep the watch wearable. All in all, I found the design and quality of the case super impressive.

The dial design of the Makina Andras_II

Makina paired the remarkable case with a modern, layered gray dial that incorporates multiple shapes. I had to let the design sink in for a bit because there is quite a lot going on. The recessed, circular center contains the applied, polished hour markers and a white, printed minute track. This central portion is combined with an oval sub-seconds display sitting within a larger oval that cuts through all levels of the dial.

The sub-seconds register consists of a wide track with Arabic numerals and a center with a light gray circle. The outer part of the dial features the brand name on the upper half and the model name and “automatic” on the lower half. Finishing the look are a set of colorful hands. The central hour and minute hands are shaped like tuning forks and have bright blue luminous tips. Interestingly, the small seconds hand features a bright blue base and a polished tip.

The dial design is an acquired taste

Looking at the overall composition, it’s a lot to take in. The oval portion cutting through the center stirs things up the most. Nevertheless, the basic design is reminiscent of some classic dress watches, and the combination of a rectangular base with a circular hour and minute track is very common. A recent watch that used the same layout is last year’s Fears Arnos. However, the oval shape makes the design funkier, meaning it may be an acquired taste. Admittedly, the dial design is not to my taste, as I would love it to be simpler.

One thing I do like is that Makina founder Danilo Villanueva chose a silicone strap for the Andras_II. Not only does it complement the modern styling of the watch, but it also provides a great deal of comfort. The dark gray rubber strap tapers nicely and comes with a branded steel buckle.

Inside the case, you will find Sellita SW260-1. This automatic caliber operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour and offers a 42-hour power reserve. The defining feature of this movement is the small seconds at 6 o’clock. Visible through the exhibition case back, the caliber shows off the custom gold-plated rotor with the brand’s logo. The vertically brushed case back also features the 5atm water resistance rating, but other than that, it is nice and clean.

Wearing the Makina Andras_II

After wearing the Makina Andras_II, I was seriously impressed by the great comfort and the case design. You can feel that Villanueva put a lot of effort into designing the case, and it shows. The watch is nicely proportioned and wears well thanks to the curved case back and the excellent silicone strap.

These things made it a joy to wear despite my reservations about the dial design. And I must admit that the wearing experience had a huge positive influence on my opinion of the Makina Andras_II. We say it all the time at Fratello, but wearing a watch is crucial to get a proper idea of how well it fits and performs. After giving the Makina Andras_II some proper time on the wrist, I can confirm that it is excellent.

I kept coming back to the details of the case design. The rounded case flanks provide a nice, organic contrast to the steep, angular details that characterize the design. Size-wise, it feels like a modern dress watch. It is far from modest but will fit a nice variety of wrist sizes perfectly. Additionally, it’s hard not to be impressed by the overall quality and superb finishing. The latter, in particular, emphasizes the details greatly and makes it a joy to wear the Andras_II and constantly be surprised.

Final thoughts on the Makina Andras_II

Overall, Danilo Villanueva has carved out a niche for himself in the vast landscape of watches. With timepieces that push the boundaries of watch design and model names referring to angels and demons from various occult sources, Makina is a unique brand. I greatly respect that Villanueva has chosen this route and gained a loyal following as a result. I had a great time with the Makina Andras_II, and it is my favorite model from the brand so far.

What makes this Makina Andras_II even more interesting is that it is available for US$800 through the brand’s official website. For US and Philippine-based customers, there are no import fees, so this is the all-inclusive price. Customers from other parts of the world have to take taxes and import duties into account when ordering an Andras_II. But even if you do, you still end up with an impressive watch that offers excellent value for money. If you are a fan of Makina’s outspoken designs, the Andras_II is an excellent choice that showcases what makes the brand so special.

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