Orbital Watch: A Bold New Way to Tell Time with Moving Precision
The Orbital Watch is redefining how we read time—literally. Instead of traditional hands, it features a mechanically driven orbital minute track that brings constant motion and visual intrigue to the dial. Developed over two years of intense prototyping, this avant-garde timepiece is the work of Mandetbrote Watches, a team with over two decades of industry expertise.
We spoke with the creators to learn how they balanced cutting-edge design with classic watchmaking—from the domed sapphire crystal and Swiss Super-LumiNova, to the reliable Miyota 9015 movement. The result is a watch that fuses luxury, innovation, and heritage, all at an accessible price point.
The Inspiration Behind the Orbital Watch
Michael (GizmoCrowd): The Orbital Watch features a unique minute track system that reimagines how we read time. What inspired you to move away from traditional hands and develop this mechanically driven orbital display?
Mandetbrote team: We wanted to create a truly unique timepiece—not just in aesthetics but also in how time is displayed. Traditional hands have been the standard for centuries, but we sought to offer a new perspective on reading time. Inspired by mechanical transmission systems, we developed the orbital display to introduce a dynamic and engaging way to track the minutes. The moving track adds a sense of motion, making time feel more fluid and interactive.
Two Years of Design & Engineering Innovation
Michael (GizmoCrowd): The project took over two years of refinement and prototyping. What were some of the biggest challenges your team faced in designing such a non-traditional time display, and how did you overcome them?
Mandetbrote team: One of the biggest challenges was ensuring the stability and accuracy of the orbital system. Since the minute gear follows a non-traditional path, we had to meticulously test gear ratios, friction resistance, and long-term durability.
Another challenge was designing the dial to maintain both aesthetic appeal and readability. After multiple iterations, we fine-tuned the gear structure, optimized material choices, and conducted extensive testing. This way we achieve a balance between precision, functionality, and visual impact.
Premium Materials & Craftsmanship
Michael (GizmoCrowd): From the domed sapphire crystal to the Swiss Super-LumiNova and Miyota 9015 movement, every part of the Orbital Watch reflects premium craftsmanship. How did you choose these materials, and how do they support your mission of creating a luxurious yet affordable timepiece?
Mandetbrote team: Our goal was to create a timepiece that embodies high-end craftsmanship while remaining accessible. We carefully selected premium materials to enhance durability, functionality, and aesthetics. The sapphire crystal ensures excellent scratch resistance, Super-LumiNova provides superior nighttime readability. Besides, the Miyota 9015 movement delivers reliable performance in a slim profile. These choices allow us to offer a luxurious experience without an unattainable price tag, making the Orbital Watch a true fusion of quality and value.
Combining Innovation with Tradition
Michael (GizmoCrowd): Despite its futuristic display, the Orbital Watch still relies on a mechanical movement and classic leather strap. How do you balance avant-garde design with horological heritage?
Mandetbrote team: The beauty of mechanical watches lies in their craftsmanship and heritage, and we wanted to preserve that essence while introducing modern design concepts. The Orbital Watch retains a traditional automatic movement, allowing wearers to appreciate the intricate mechanics inside. At the same time, the orbital display brings a contemporary twist, redefining how time is presented. The use of classic elements like a leather strap ensures a familiar yet innovative feel, striking a perfect balance between tradition and forward-thinking design.
The Future of Mandetbrote Watches
Michael (GizmoCrowd): With the launch of the Orbital Watch on Kickstarter, what’s next for your team? Are there plans to expand the Orbital series, introduce new movement concepts, or explore other design-first watch collections?
Mandetbrote team: We are excited to explore new possibilities, including expanding the Orbital series and developing innovative movement concepts that push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking. We are also working on other design-driven watch collections. W aiming to fuse traditional craftsmanship with innovative ideas to create more unique and stunning timepieces.
Since the beginning of my career, I have dedicated all my time to designing and manufacturing watches—this is my lifelong pursuit.
Michael (GizmoCrowd): Thank you to the Mandetbrote team for sharing the story behind the Orbital Watch. It’s a refreshing reinterpretation of traditional horology, combining motion, craftsmanship, and creativity. We can’t wait to see what’s next as you continue to reimagine the future of timekeeping.
Secret Orbital Automatic Watch – Unconventional Time
About Mandetbrote watches
Mandetbrote Watches brings over 20 years of experience in watch design and manufacturing, crafting timepieces for renowned global brands. With a passion for horology and innovation, the team has launched its own signature creation: the Orbital Watch—a bold reimagining of how time is displayed. Their goal is clear: to combine luxury craftsmanship with accessible pricing, creating watches that are both functional and unforgettable.
Discover Orbital Watch on Kickstarter Now
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