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The Áigi Satellite Ground Station II is a Nordic nod to our connection with space

The Áigi Satellite Ground Station II is a Nordic nod to our connection with space

Buffy Acacia

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Norway is known internationally as the land of the aurora borealis glowing above fjords, ancient Vikings, and black metal. But Áigi isn’t the kind of microbrand to lean into pandering stereotypes, rather harnessing its Norwegian sensibilities with class and an attitude of exploring light. Despite being a relatively young brand, only founded in 2017, it’s released a whopping 11 models including chronographs, divers, dress watches, and GMTs. One of those was so popular that it’s come back for a second round, but with a substantial personality shift. The Áigi Satellite Ground Station II is a budget-friendly watch that’s sure to orbit your mind.

The case

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II Case 1

The original Áigi Satellite Ground Station launched last year, and while that case design did have more complexity, it was also much more reminiscent of the Patek Philippe Nautilus. Getting rid of the ears on the side and de-integrating the bracelet has created a much more streamlined silhouette that allows Áigi’s own identity to shine through, clear of other brand comparisons. Four notches on the brushed bezel also help give it some unique character, while the harsh facets on the lugs are aligned with the technological inspiration of the watch.

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II Case 2

The Satellite Ground Station II has shrunk very slightly to a diameter of 39mm, which is a crowd-pleaser for audiences who appreciate humble sizing and a balance of wrist presence. The 46mm lug-to-lug distance allows small wrists to wear it with ease, and the total thickness is just 11mm including a domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective coating. Backing up its status as a capable sports watch, the water resistance is rated at 100 metres, and the case is made from stainless steel that’s been chemically hardened. That process raises its hardness to 1,200 Vickers, which is almost as hard as some ceramics.

The dial

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II Dial 1

If you’re wondering where the Satellite Ground Station name comes from, it pays tribute to the elaborate machinery required to maintain contact between Earth and space. Kongsberg Satellite Services, a Norwegian company, has set up over 300 antennas across 28 sites around the world, all sending and receiving data from satellites for us to learn more about our universe. Áigi even used some of the steel taken from a decommissioned antenna for the first release, but now it’s just thematically dedicated to those ground stations. You’ll also notice that the very tip of the seconds hand is a satellite that travels the dial, packed with little bits of luminous paint.

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II Dial 2

There are two dial textures available for the Satellite Ground Station II, both inspired by the stations. The triangular hobnail-esque pattern is taken from the radomes that house antennas, and the 12-sector pattern is more simply based on a satellite dish. The radome dial comes in black and deep blue, each playing with light and shadow in captivating ways, while the satellite dish dial is available in a clean white or plated in 18k yellow gold. All options have very distinct personalities, so you can choose a dressier or sportier option according to your style.

The bracelet

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II Bracelet

The decision to go from an integrated bracelet to a standard bracelet is a brave one considering how popular integrated bracelets are at the moment – however, it does feel like the right move for this watch. The new bracelet, which takes on a more traditional Oyster style with flat links, offers a more classic vintage vibe akin to the ‘60s rather than the ‘70s. It also has quick-release spring bars, so you can easily swap it out for a strap if you wish. The clasp is made from milled steel and also features on-the-fly adjustment without the need for tools. That’s a feature that is becoming much more common on microbrand watches these days, and something that the big brands desperately need to catch up on.

The movement

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II Caseback

If you were impressed by the Áigi’s slenderness, you have the movement to thank. It’s the Miyota calibre 9039, which is one of the Japanese brand’s premium automatic movements. It rivals entry-level Swiss movements on both specification and performance, with a smooth 4Hz beat rate and a 42-hour power reserve. Automatic winding is perfect for a daily wearer, and you can even get a peak of the movement and its winding rotor through a small sapphire window in the caseback. The rest of the caseback is embossed with a satellite and some stars.

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II Verdict

Anything to do with space and technology is going to be a hit with watch nerds, but honestly, the Áigi Satellite Ground Station II doesn’t need a gimmick. Having moved away from the Nautilus influence, it has become a compelling watch in its own right, with beautiful design details and fantastic value for money. The easter eggs that tie into satellites are just an added bonus and something that can be solid party trivia or just grant personal satisfaction.

Áigi Satellite Ground Station II price and availability

Each of the Áigi Satellite Ground Station II references will be limited to 500 numbered pieces, with 125 each being made in the first production run. Pre-orders come with a launch offer of a 25% discount and a free leather strap worth US$49. Price: US$359 (pre-order price), US$479 (RRP excl. VAT)

Brand Áigi
Model Satellite Ground Station II
Case Dimensions 39mm (D) x 11mm (T) x 46mm
Case Material Stainless steel with chemical hardening to 1,200 Vickers
Water Resistance 100 metres
Crystal(s) Sapphire with anti-reflective coating
Dial Black or blue radome pattern
White or 18k gold plated satellite dish pattern
Bracelet and strap Stainless steel bracelet
Movement Miyota 9039, automatic
Power Reserve 42 hours
Functions Hours, minutes, seconds
Availability Limited to 500 numbered pieces
Price US$359 (pre-order price)
US$479 (RRP excl. VAT)

Made in partnership with Áigi. However, the opinions expressed in this article are our own in accordance with our Editorial Policy.