Kids who have ever fantasized about swinging through the city like Spider-Man now have a device that brings that dream one step closer to reality. HeroTech’s Magnus MKII Thread Shooter Watch is the result of years of tinkering and ambition, a practical timepiece with a thread-shooting mechanism that looks like it came straight out of a comic book.
HeroTech, a Singapore-based startup founded by Jacob Uy, spent years brainstorming the Magnus MKII. Actual development took a year, with Uy juggling college, an internship and health issues while iterating through hundreds of prototypes. The result is a wrist-worn device that shoots and retracts SpiderWire thread using electronic reloading, all while being a watch. Swapping between thread-shooting and time-telling cartridges makes it dual purpose, a clever design choice that makes it more appealing. Made from aircraft-grade aluminum, the Magnus MKII has a premium finish achieved through precision CNC machining, sandblasting and type II anodizing. It feels substantial, like a tool for a hero, not a toy.
The thread-shooting mechanism uses neodymium rare earth magnets which allows the SpiderWire thread to stick to magnetic objects up to 9 feet away. This is not a grappling hook because the thread can’t carry weight, but it’s perfect for fun tricks like grabbing a metal object across the room. The electronic reload mechanism is driven by a custom PCB and a specially sourced motor with a larger shaft for smooth operation. The device is powered by a custom LiPo battery that’s safety certified but sourcing it has caused production to be delayed. These components combined with a compliant mechanism for cartridge changeover shows the attention to detail that went into making the Magnus MKII reliable and user friendly.
The Magnus MKII watch replaces traditional hands with a one-of-a-kind LED bar display that lights up in patterns to tell the time. It’s not the most conventional way to tell time but it’s definitely cool with a futuristic twist to match the thread-shooting function. It’s compatible with any 18mm NATO-style strap and comes with a ballistic nylon one for comfort and durability. Hand-assembled for perfection it includes a main body, thread and watch cartridges, two neodymium projectiles, extra SpiderWire rolls, a LiPo charger and two maintenance screwdrivers. At $349, it’s a premium product but HeroTech sweetens the deal with a lifetime guarantee and free worldwide shipping with preorders set to ship in December.
Manufacturing the Magnus MKII was no easy feat. CNC-machined parts which cost $350 vs $7 for 3D-printed alternatives increased costs and timelines. To get the final look Uy tested different finishes: 6061-T6 aluminum with an average roughness of 0.8, deburred, sandblasted with 220-grit and anodized in Pantone 8001C. These specs ensure consistency as manufacturing scales up, but also meant months of waiting for parts and experimenting with finishes.
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