Maghnam operates in an area that few independent brands truly explore. Urwerk, MB&F and even Hautlence have long influenced the idea of futuristic watchmaking in the space age. Sohaib Maghnam, the Qatar-based founder of Maghnam Watches, approaches the concept from a different angle. His watches are not only about unconventional representations, bold mechanics, form and structure, but above all about cultural identity. A trained mechanical engineer, Maghnam initially pursued a career in the automotive sector before devoting himself to watchmaking. Therefore, he views the watch as a three-dimensional object in motion, more like a machine or body armor than a traditional instrument.
Unveiled in 2020, Makina already hinted at modularity and sculptural construction. Since then, Maghnam has refined his work, balancing expressive design with technology. His parallel role as CEO and Creative Director of Beda'a at the GPHG-recognized Eclipse 1 demonstrates his ability to combine classic restraint with avant-garde experimentation. The Mohareb, meaning “fighter” or “gladiator” in Arabic, has become the essential expression of the designer’s vision. With the introduction of the new generation, the concept evolves, but the core idea remains: a watch in the design of an armor, this time with greater versatility and technical maturity.
The Maghnam Mohareb Gen-II comes in a 39.5mm 904L stainless steel case, which has excellent corrosion resistance and a higher density than standard 316L steel. The case has a maximum thickness of 8.6mm and tapers dramatically to 3.5mm at the edges. At first glance the clock seems far too daring and very architectural; On the wrist, it feels unexpectedly slim and light at just 43.5 grams. Achieving this balance required advanced machining, with certain housing sections reduced to a thickness of less than 0.28mm.
What sets the Mohareb apart, however, is its modular structure. The central chassis is a core unit to which three external modules can be attached: Blades, Halo and Wings. The Blades configuration is the most aggressive, with sharp, protective extensions reminiscent of armor plates. Halo gives the watch a more traditional round shape, while Wings introduces an elongated, almost organic oval shape. The previous generation also offered armor to turn Mohareb into a pocket watch; This option may be added later for the updated model.
The conversion is quick and mechanically secured by the case base. It's a concept closer to industrial design or automobile bodies than traditional watchmaking, and it remains largely unique in the industry. The only ones that come to mind are Hegid watches, which also have a transformational spirit. Water resistance is 10m, clearly positioning the Mohareb as a design object driven by mechanics and narrative. It is based more on experimental individual models than on conventional luxury sports models.
The dial, available in Argent Crimson and Deep Blue, is not a separate element but an integrated part of the construction. The sapphire crystal reveals a layered, seemingly skeletal construction with alternating brushed, sandblasted and polished surfaces.
The time is displayed using a bi-retrograde system. The hours move across a 120-degree arc before immediately snapping back, while the minutes are displayed on a vertical linear track at the top of the dial. This vertical representation is not only unusual, but also reinforces the helmet-like symmetry of the watch. The movement is crisp and precise, giving the watch a dynamic dimension that complements the futuristic character.
The watch is powered by the MCR01-B caliber, which is based on the hand-wound Sellita SW210 movement and features a proprietary Maghnam module. With a 42-hour power reserve, the movement remains practical while providing a distinctive visual experience. Despite its conceptual design, the Mohareb was designed for everyday use. Its light weight, compact diameter and slim profile mean it sits far more comfortably on the wrist than its appearance suggests. Strap options include alligator leather, canvas and bespoke alternatives.
With a price of CHF 7,200 (excl. VAT), the new generation Mohareb is a convincing offer. It combines an original modular structure, a retrograde display and a strong, culturally rooted design language. For more information, visit maghnam.com.
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