Innovation Meets Affordability: A Hands-On Review of the New Traska Chronograph

Explore the new Traska Chronograph featuring a Seiko NE86 movement, scratch-resistant coating, and unique rotating sub-dial discs in this hands-on review.

By: AXL Media

Published: Feb 23, 2026, 5:26 AM EST

Source: Information for this report was sourced from Fratello Watches

Technical Foundation: The Seiko NE86 Movement

The decision-making process for the Traska Chronograph began with the movement. While Swiss calibers were considered, Mack ultimately selected the Seiko NE86. This choice was driven by the movement's impressive specifications and slim profile; it is 0.3mm thinner than common affordable alternatives. Beyond its dimensions, the NE86 is a high-spec caliber featuring both a column wheel and a vertical clutch components typically reserved for high-end chronographs to ensure a smooth start for the seconds hand and a crisp tactile feel for the pushers. Traska goes a step further by regulating each movement to exceed standard factory accuracy.

Deceptive Dimensions and Clever Design

One of the most praised aspects of the new Chronograph is how it manages its 13.75mm thickness. Through clever engineering, Mack and designer Max Resnick created a visual profile that feels much slimmer. The steel mid-case itself is only 11.8mm, with the remaining height attributed to the box-shaped sapphire crystal. By utilizing a concave bezel and a case back that partially absorbs the movement's bulk, the perceived mid-case height is reduced to just 4.75mm. This allows the 39mm watch to wear significantly more comfortably than many competing "chunky" automatic chronographs on the market.

Innovative Dial: Rotating Discs Instead of Hands

The most visually striking departure from tradition is the sub-dial execution. Eschewing traditional hands, the Traska Chronograph uses two transparent rotating discs with printed numerals. These discs rotate over a red line to indicate elapsed minutes (at 9 o'clock) and running seconds (at 3 o'clock). While this approach is unusual, reviewers note that it does not sacrifice legibility. The monochromatic gray color scheme, accented by a red central chronograph seconds hand, gives the watch a contemporary aesthetic reminiscent of higher-end luxury pieces like the Zenith Chronomaster Sport.