A magnetic recording medium is formed with a distribution of laser micromachined servo-marks in the form of pits or indentations with an attendant reduction in servo-tracking area and increased data-recording speed. Embodiments include laser texturing to form a radially extending linear or arcuate series of circular or elliptical pits across the data zone. The micromachined servo-marks are detected by mechanical or electrical means and denote the beginning and end of magnetically recorded servo-information in a data track, thereby enabling accurate and timely positioning of the read/write head by the servo-controller of the hard drive.