A Bold New Trick for the Wrist
With its bold modular design and theatrical flair, CIGA Design’s Mechanical Watch Magician redefines what a timepiece can be—part watch, part illusion, all statement.
Every once in a while, a watch comes along that doesn’t just rework tradition—it tosses it in the air and makes it disappear. The CIGA Design Mechanical Watch Magician, part of the brand’s Series M lineup, feels exactly like that: a sleight of hand, a little bit of spectacle, and a serious rethink of what a mechanical watch can be.
Inspired by the world of magicians, AKA performers who dazzle audiences with tricks and illusions, the Magician brings a brand-new concept to the table. Instead of the usual single fixed case design that’s dominated watchmaking history, CIGA Design introduces something different: an inner case with interchangeable external bezels. In simple terms, you’re getting three case designs in one movement, allowing you to mix and match your style depending on the day or even the hour.
It’s a genuinely clever idea, and more importantly, it doesn’t feel like a gimmick. The transitions between the three bezel designs—round, tonneau, and square—are mostly smooth, although we’ll admit, the first few tries felt a little delicate. There’s a bit of an art to getting the magnetic connections just right, but once you get the hang of it, swapping styles becomes second nature, almost part of the fun.
Visually, the Magician is anything but shy. The skeletonized dial pulls you right into the heart of the movement, exposing the intricate gearwork underneath. It’s mechanical theater at its finest—mesmerizing, almost hypnotic at times. Stainless steel and titanium materials give the watch a lightweight but rugged feel, and it’s water-resistant to 3 ATM, meaning it can handle the occasional splash without worry, though you probably won’t want to take it swimming.
On the wrist, it wears bold. Not overbearing, but certainly with presence. If you like minimalist dress watches that quietly slip under a cuff, this won’t be your vibe. But if you appreciate pieces that make a statement (and maybe start a few conversations), the Magician hits the mark. It’s comfortable enough for everyday use, yet dramatic enough to hold its own at an evening event, especially when you switch up the case to match your outfit or mood.
Of course, versatility always comes with a slight trade-off. Realistically, most owners might pick a favorite bezel and stick with it. The novelty of transformation is undeniably cool, but whether you’ll truly rotate all three styles regularly is another story.
Still, credit where it’s due: CIGA Design isn’t just tweaking old formulas. They’re pushing boundaries. The Mechanical Watch Magician doesn’t just sit on your wrist; it performs.
And in a world where so many watches are content to play it safe, that feels pretty magical.
