A little over two years ago we released our first ever square watch, the Astro. To say it was a Marmite watch couldn't be more accurate - you either love it or you hate it! We've always tried to split opinion with our designs and on this occasion we most certainly succeeded - the Astro's individual and unique look even provoked some people to write in telling us how offended they were by the design! 

Without putting ourselves on too much of a pedestal, it's a philosophy that aligns with that of one Mr Steve Jobs - known for his strong opinions on creating products that were innovative and polarising, leading to both admiration and criticism:

A quote by Jobs that closely relates to this idea is:

"When you’re doing something new, if it’s really a breakthrough, people are going to be outraged, or they're going to love it."

In other words, a product that stirs strong opinions, both positive and negative, is often one that makes a significant impact. The implication is that it's better to have a passionate audience, even if some people are vehemently opposed, than to create something that no one feels strongly about. 

Over the past two years or so this couldn't have been more true - those who own and wear the Astro are delighted with their watch, almost awestruck by its design and purpose. But those who don't like it, well, they still email us saying so! 

We knew, even when I first mentioned to Gordon that we should produce a square watch, that the Astro was always going to be an outsider - much like the original Morar, we didn't want it to look like all of its predecessors. In fact, we wanted the design to feel like it lived in each relevant period of the race to space, on the wrists of those who felt weightlessness and trod the dusty moon - and we believe we achieved that, something utterly unique but very much of the time.  

Therefore, it's with a heavy heart that today we announce the retirement of the Astro collection - once existing stocks are sold, we'll be doffing the proverbial to this polarising design. We simply cannot love it enough here at HQ - the case is a strap monster and works on almost anything you throw at it, from our futuristic velcro bands to cleverly designed notched straps - offering an altogether different look.

From today, all remaining models within the Astro Collection will be priced from £279, a huge 30% discount on the retail price - don't miss your chance not only to grab an absolute bargain, but also to enjoy this piece of Marloe design history.