Magrette
Magrette Timepieces is an independent boutique watch brand founded in 2007 by Dion McAsey and based in Auckland, New Zealand. The brand is recognized for its “classic modern” design philosophy, specializing in small-batch, limited-edition mechanical timepieces that often draw inspiration from yachting and New Zealand’s cultural heritage. A defining characteristic of the brand is its use of cushion-shaped cases and the incorporation of traditional Maori motifs, such as the koru fern found in its shield logo. Key collections include the Moana Pacific, a robust dive series available in professional steel, titanium, and bronze variants, and the Leoncino, which features both standard editions and highly intricate, hand-engraved “Art Collection” pieces like the Matariki and Wheke. The brand’s lineup also encompasses functional complications such as the Waterman GMT and the Dual Time, utilizing reliable movements from manufacturers like ETA and Miyota to offer high-specification tool watches at an accessible price point.
Draken
Draken Watches is an independent microbrand based in Auckland, New Zealand, founded in 2015 by Michael Blythe. The brand’s identity is deeply rooted in the founder’s South African heritage, with its name and rugged design philosophy inspired by the Drakensberg mountain range. Draken specializes in manufacturing durable, original tool watches designed for outdoor adventure, characterized by a unique tapering case profile that is wider at the bezel than the base for improved grip and wearability. Their core collection includes the Tugela, a 300m water-resistant diver featuring a distinctive 120-click bezel and sapphire crystal; the Aoraki, a 39mm field watch equipped with an anti-magnetic Faraday cage and a 4:30 crown position; and the Kruger, a tactical titanium chronograph utilizing either mechaquartz or Valjoux 7750 movements. Other notable models include the Peregrine, a pilot’s watch with a power reserve indicator, and the Kalahari, an expedition watch inspired by desert landscapes. The brand is recognized for its extensive use of Super-LumiNova, often applied to dials, bezels, and even the engraved logos on the crowns, and for utilizing reliable Japanese and Swiss movements to ensure functional longevity in demanding environments.