Makina Watches: The Filipino Brand Doing Things Differently
In a space crowded with familiar tropes and easy nostalgia, Makina Watches has carved out something far more deliberate. Founded in 2017 by Manila based creative director Danilo Villanueva, the brand did not begin as a commercial exercise. It started as a design outlet. A way to create without compromise.
Villanueva’s background in advertising is key here. Makina was never about chasing trends or replicating vintage icons. It was about building a visual identity from the ground up. That approach still defines the brand today.
From its earliest releases, Makina leaned into small batch production, global sourcing, and a distinctly architectural design language. The result is a brand that feels considered rather than opportunistic. It sits comfortably in that collector sweet spot where independence meets clarity of vision.
Industrial Thinking, Refined Execution
Makina’s watches are built on contrast. The cases tend to be bold, often cushion shaped, with strong brushing and sharp edges that give off a slightly industrial feel. But that toughness is balanced by intricate dial work that adds depth, texture, and a surprising level of refinement.
The Uriel line has become the brand’s calling card. Its softly squared case, layered dial construction, and careful proportions strike a balance that is not easily categorised. It is not quite dress, not quite sport, but somewhere in between.
That in between space is where Makina thrives. Rather than forcing its watches into traditional categories, the brand has created its own lane. One where design leads and everything else follows.
The Uriel VII: The Brand in Focus
If you want to understand Makina, start with the Uriel VII.
This latest iteration builds on the original Uriel from 2017, but pushes the concept further than ever before. Most notably, it introduces a full calendar complication, marking a significant step up in both ambition and execution.
The familiar cushion case remains, now refined with sharper transitions and more deliberate finishing. At 38mm, it keeps the compact proportions that made earlier models so wearable, while still offering enough presence on the wrist.
Dial and Layout
The dial is where the Uriel VII separates itself.
Executed in a deep black that shifts subtly in different lighting, it plays with tone and texture rather than relying on colour. The layout is complex but controlled, with day at 9, month at 3, and date at 6.
Each subdial is recessed, adding vertical depth and giving the watch a layered, almost architectural feel. At a glance, it can read like a chronograph. Look closer and the calendar functionality reveals itself in a way that feels intuitive rather than crowded.
Nothing here feels decorative for the sake of it. Every element has purpose, and more importantly, space to breathe.
Movement Choice
Powering the Uriel VII is the Miyota 9122 automatic calibre. It is a pragmatic choice, offering a full calendar layout, reliable performance, and a solid 40 hour power reserve.
Makina is not trying to compete on high horology credentials. Instead, it focuses on delivering meaningful complications within an accessible framework. It is a decision that aligns with the brand’s broader philosophy.
Wearability
On paper, the Uriel VII is modest in size. On the wrist, it has more presence than the numbers suggest.
The cushion case gives it width, while the curved profile keeps it comfortable and contained. Paired with a canvas strap, it leans slightly casual, but the dial keeps things elevated enough to cross into smarter territory when needed.
It is that versatility that makes it compelling. It does not force a specific use case. It adapts.
A Brand Finding Its Stride
The Uriel VII is more than just another release. It feels like a moment of clarity for Makina.
Everything that defined the brand in its early days is still here. The design focus. The independence. The refusal to follow the usual microbrand formula. But it is all more refined, more confident, and more cohesive.
The addition of a full calendar complication could have easily overcomplicated the watch. Instead, it feels integrated, as though it was always part of the plan.
At its price point, it sits in a competitive space. But few offer this level of design consistency paired with a complication that actually adds value to the overall experience.
Winding Things Up
Makina is not trying to be something it is not. It is not chasing heritage, and it is not attempting to imitate the established players.
What it offers instead is a clear and evolving point of view. One rooted in design, shaped by its Manila origins, and guided by a founder who understands restraint as much as creativity.
With the Uriel VII, that vision comes into sharp focus.
Price - £550.00 ($750 + import taxes).
