Introducing Robot Albatros, Honors Czech Engineering and Craftsmanship

Robot is a watch brand born in the heart of the Czech Republic, where a rich tradition of craftsmanship seamlessly blends with modern technology. Its name draws inspiration from 1921, when Czech writer Karel Čapek introduced the word “robot,” symbolizing innovation. Founded by Josef Zajíček in 2018, ROBOT pays tribute to this historic milestone. Each ROBOT timepiece is meticulously handcrafted in Nové Město nad Metují, combining the precision of Swiss movements with distinctive Czech design.

The brand’s latest creation, the Albatros, celebrates Czech engineering and tradition. This new pilot’s watch pays homage to the Aero L-39 jet trainer, designed by Jan Vlček in the 1960s. By the late 1980s, this iconic aircraft had become the world’s most widely used jet trainer, renowned for its maneuverability and even favored by aerobatic teams.

The 904L stainless steel case, measuring 44mm in diameter and 11.5mm in height, features a smooth black ceramic bezel. At 3 o’clock, the ROBOT-signed crown, inspired by the shape of an aircraft engine, is protected by polished elements resembling pilot ejection seats. The sapphire crystal case back is flat, while the front sapphire crystal is subtly curved. Both crystals are treated with an anti-reflective coating on the underside. The case is water-resistant to 100 meters.

The dial draws direct inspiration from the L-39’s grey instrument panel, featuring yellow-accented Arabic numerals modeled after those in the aircraft’s cockpit. The Super-LumiNova-filled hands echo the aircraft’s profile, enhancing legibility in low-light conditions.

The complications include a power reserve indicator at 12 o’clock, an off-center seconds subdial at 6 o’clock with a date window, and an engraved outline of the Albatros at 9 o’clock, balanced symmetrically by the ROBOT logo at 3 o’clock.

Visible through the sapphire crystal case back, the Albatros is powered by a manual-winding caliber F1S0, based on the Swiss La Joux-Perret F100 movement, offering an 8-day (192-hour) power reserve. It beats at a frequency of 21,600 vph (3Hz). The movement features a high level of finishing, with bridges treated in a dark anthracite PVD coating for a modern aesthetic.

Completing the aviation-inspired design, the Albatros comes on a sporty three-tone textile strap with a leather lining. The timepiece is priced at €6,050 (approximately 23,335 AED).

For more information, you can visit Robot’s official website.