Client: Draken Watches
Draken Aoraki
Engineered for Adventure,
Inspired by Nature
The Aoraki marks a pivotal moment for Draken, as the first watch assembled in New Zealand. Named after Mount Cook, this timepiece reflects local craftsmanship and the spirit of exploration associated with Edmund Hillary. It features an antimagnetic case rated at 20,000A/m, a flat crystal, and a brushed finish that aligns with the brand’s aesthetic. With four unique dial and handset combinations, each design offers its own story. The watch includes high-quality Swiss Super-LumiNova™ for excellent visibility and comes with both a leather bund strap and a water-resistant nylon strap, all packaged in a MOLLE pouch featuring a custom patch of Aoraki Mountain.
Version A
The Aoraki – Vector
The Aoraki “Vector” is built for the demands of the outdoors, whether it’s chopping wood or setting up a fence line. Its bold, high-contrast dial is designed for quick, clear legibility with minimal distortion, ensuring the time is easily readable at a glance in any lighting conditions. Taking inspiration from modern field watch designs, the “Vector” features Arabic numerals at 3, 6, 9, and 12 for added clarity. The prominent arrow hand, designed for optimal lume application, enhances visibility and balances the overall look of the dial, making it both functional and striking.
Version B
The Aoraki – Flieger
The Aoraki “Flieger” stands out with its striking, high-contrast design, delivering clear and essential timekeeping information in an unmistakable format. Inspired by the Type A pilot watches used by German Luftwaffe aviators, it features distinctive rhombus-shaped hands and a signature triangle flanked by two dots at the 12 o’clock mark. This design is rooted in the practical needs of early pilots, ensuring quick readability under pressure. The “Flieger” brings together bold aesthetics and functional heritage, echoing the simplicity and precision of classic aviation instruments.
Version C
The Aoraki – Zulu
The Aoraki “Zulu” is built to maintain focus and readiness for action, cutting out unnecessary distractions. Whether planning the next operation or carrying it out with precision, this watch ensures sharpness and punctuality, from dawn to dusk. Its dial pays homage to a classic design from U.S. military history, featuring an additional 24-hour Arabic numeral track. The syringe-style hands have been refined for a more functional, tool-like appearance, providing greater visibility with enhanced lume for low-light environments.
Version D
The Aoraki – Milspec
The Aoraki “Milspec” is built for those who appreciate minimalism and functionality. Its uncluttered layout offers exceptional clarity, ensuring the time is easy to read in any light conditions. Drawing inspiration from aviation, particularly the instruments of the F-14 fighter jet, the “Milspec” features extended minute markers and a streamlined, no-frills handset. With its clean design and precise details, it’s made for individuals who prefer practicality and simplicity on every journey.
Each Aoraki model features a Bund Leather Strap, a design initially created by the German government for military and aviation watches.
This strap offers several key benefits:
- Protects against sweat and moisture for durability.
- Secures the watch, minimizing vibration.
- Reduces injury risk during impacts.
- Acts as a barrier in emergencies for pilots.
- Insulates from cold watch case at high altitudes.
The Aoraki, featuring Swiss Super-LumiNova™ application, performs exceptionally well in low-light conditions,
