Originals was the term used for families who've long since passed down their powers through the generations, teaching their own kids from a young age. Because of this, the ability levels of Originals were usually at 8, as they were able to learn from the masters, and had their powers for far longer than anyone else.
So when Erin saw the level 8 on the mechanical figure's watch, she was on high alert. The person she was dealing with was very likely an Original, one she did not know the full strength of.
'The watches only go up to level 8, but someone could easily have way more MC than what the watches could measure,' Erin thought, contemplating her next move, 'Not every level 8 is the same.'
Erin jumped back, making sure to keep her distance.
"I retract my earlier statement about you two," The mechanical being commented with a robotized voice, "It appears that you have fists for brains."
