The world of horology is a fascinating one, filled with intricate craftsmanship and a deep appreciation for tradition. And when a brand like Studio Underd0g, a British microbrand known for its playful reinterpretations of classic watch styles, decides to revise a beloved design, it's a big deal. The 02Series, Generation 2, is a testament to this brand's ability to blend the past with the present, creating a watch that is both timeless and innovative.
A Playful Take on Tradition
Studio Underd0g's 02Series, Generation 2, is a tribute to the iconic British Ministry of Defense field watches from World War II, affectionately known as the "Dirty Dozen." These watches were a staple during the war, and their legacy has endured, making them highly collectible and deeply beloved in the watch world. The brand's first-generation 02Series took a playful spin on this traditional concept, and now, they've returned to that design, revamping it with subtle yet impactful tweaks.
One of the most notable changes is the movement. The original 02Series featured a Sellita SW210, which had a 42-hour power reserve. In the new generation, they've swapped it out for a Sellita SW200-2 M Power+, which boasts a significantly longer power reserve of 63 hours. This means less frequent winding, a major convenience factor for watch enthusiasts.
Another subtle yet impactful change is the case depth. The first generation had a depth of 12 millimeters, while the new version shrinks to 11.5 millimeters. This might not seem like a big deal, but in the world of watches, every fraction of a millimeter matters, especially at this scale.
Dialing in the Details
The dial colorways have also been updated. The original pink-and-yellow gradient and light blue dial colorways have been replaced with new dark purple and red dial colorways, adding a touch of modern flair to the classic design. All four colorways receive custom seven-layer SuperLuminova treatments on their numerals, indices, and hour and minute hands, ensuring excellent visibility in low-light conditions.
The minute track around the dial has been slightly reduced, but the unique suspended sapphire disc and metallic base plate construction remain, preserving the watch's distinctive look and feel. Every watch is meticulously assembled in Great Britain, a fact proudly reflected on the dial.
A Watch for the Ages
The Studio Underd0g 02Series, Generation 2, is now available on the brand's site for $1,200 apiece in all four colorways. With its improved movement, shorter case depth, and updated dial colorways, this watch is a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and innovation. It's a timepiece that not only pays homage to the past but also looks towards the future, making it a must-have for any watch enthusiast.
In my opinion, what makes this watch particularly fascinating is the brand's ability to strike a balance between tradition and innovation. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best way to honor the past is to build upon it, creating something that is both familiar and exciting. From my perspective, Studio Underd0g has once again hit a home run with this latest iteration of the 02Series.
