The ATOWAK COBRA implements a satellite wandering hours complication, a display historically associated with high-end independent watchmaking. Its time-telling system utilizes three revolving satellite arms to indicate the hours against a 120-degree minute track. The distinctive seven-sided case architecture, inspired by the flared hood of a cobra, is a multi-part construction of 316L stainless steel and layered carbon fiber.
This display is driven by a custom-developed module built upon the reliable Japanese Miyota 9039 automatic calibre. The reference serves as a compelling example of accessible horological engineering and avant-garde design emerging from the microbrand sector.
ATOWAK is a contemporary Chinese microbrand that has gained recognition for its focus on creating mechanically complex and visually avant-garde timepieces at an accessible price point. The brand’s core design philosophy centers on democratizing unconventional time-telling methods, primarily through the use of satellite wandering hours and other non-traditional displays. Models such as the Cobra and Ettore draw aesthetic inspiration from automotive design and science fiction, featuring multi-layered case constructions and dynamic, kinetic dials.
Technically, ATOWAK achieves this by building custom-developed complication modules upon reliable third-party automatic movements, typically from Japanese manufacturer Miyota. As a result, ATOWAK has established itself as a notable player within the global microbrand scene, representing a growing movement that challenges traditional horological design with innovative and affordable mechanical art.
Overall Grade: 8.5 / 10 | Great Condition, Light Visible Wear Production: 2024 Contents: Fullset Genre: Sports Watch
Size: 43x50mm Thickness: 16.2mm Lug width: 24mm
Case: 316L steel with carbon fiber inserts, octagonal "cobra" shape, brushed finish, light wear Bezel: Integrated into case design, brushed finish, features upper aperture Dial: Black brushed multi-layer dial, with retrograde minute track in gold-colored print Hands: Three rotating satellite wheels with printed hour numerals that rotate into position
Crown: Located at 12 o'clock, stainless steel, push-pull, unsigned Crystal: Sapphire, custom-shaped flat top with beveled edges, light wear Bracelet: Brown leather strap, worn (Includes original unworn steel bracelet) Caseback: Solid, screw-down, with aperture to view movement, engraved with production number Movement: Automatic Caliber: Miyota 9039