The Second-Generation Studio Underd0g 02Series: A Watch That's Slimmer, More Powerful, and Even More Playful
The 02Series from Studio Underd0g is back with a bang, and it's not just a bang-on-the-head kind of bang. This second generation of the watch is a significant upgrade, offering a slimmer profile, a more powerful movement, and a host of new features that make it even more playful and fun to wear. But what makes this watch truly special is how it combines these improvements with a design that's both classic and contemporary, and a price point that's surprisingly accessible.
One of the most notable changes is the watch's slimmer profile. The original 02s had a thickness of 12mm, but the new Gen2 model has been pared down to just 11.5mm, with the crystal alone measuring a mere 9.4mm. This reduction in thickness was achieved through a combination of design changes, including a reworked dial and hand construction, and tighter assembly tolerances made possible by Studio Underd0g's in-house workshop, The D0ghouse. The result is a watch that feels much lighter on the wrist, without sacrificing any of the classic field watch proportions.
The dial has also been given a makeover, with the minutes track moved slightly inwards to improve legibility beneath the domed crystal. The handset has been completely retooled, and the amount of printed text has been reduced and rebalanced. The new dial colors, Nightshade and Red L0lly, are particularly striking, with the purple and cherry red tones created by tinting the 1mm-thick sapphire layer suspended above the metallic dial base. The technique was first explored on Studio Underd0g's Manhattan collaboration with Fears, and it really shows.
But the biggest upgrade is found inside. The new Sellita SW200-2 M Power+ movement has replaced the previous Sellita SW210-1, offering a 63-hour power reserve, up from the previous 42 hours. This is a significant improvement, and it's one that will be particularly welcome for those who want to wear their watch for longer periods without having to worry about it stopping. The movement is still manually wound, which is in keeping with the field-watch inspiration, and it retains hacking seconds for precise time setting.
The new leather straps by The Strap Tailor complete the Gen2 update, with each color receiving its own combination. The straps are 18mm wide and taper to 16mm, and they feature quick-release spring bars and stainless steel pin buckles. The result is a watch that's not only slimmer and more powerful, but also more comfortable and versatile.
So what does all this mean for you? Well, for starters, it means that you can now get your hands on a watch that's both stylish and functional, without breaking the bank. The Studio Underd0g 02Series Gen2 is available immediately, with prices starting at GBP 875, EUR 900, or USD 1,200. That's a steal for a watch that offers so much, and it's a great choice for anyone who wants a watch that's both classic and contemporary, playful and powerful.
In my opinion, the 02Series Gen2 is a significant step forward for Studio Underd0g, and it's a watch that I think will become a favorite for many watch enthusiasts. The combination of a slimmer profile, a more powerful movement, and a host of new features makes it a watch that's both fun to wear and fun to look at. So if you're in the market for a new watch, I think the 02Series Gen2 is definitely one to consider.
One thing that immediately stands out is how Studio Underd0g has managed to maintain the classic field watch proportions while still making the watch feel much lighter on the wrist. It's a testament to the brand's design skills and attention to detail, and it's one of the reasons why I think the 02Series Gen2 is such a great watch. What many people don't realize is that the brand's in-house workshop, The D0ghouse, plays a crucial role in the watch's development, allowing for tighter assembly tolerances and a more precise finish.
If you take a step back and think about it, the 02Series Gen2 really represents a significant evolution for Studio Underd0g. The brand has managed to take the classic field watch and reinterpret it in a way that's both modern and playful, while still maintaining the core values that make the original design so beloved. This raises a deeper question: how can a brand that's only been around for a few years manage to create such a compelling and innovative watch? The answer, I think, lies in the brand's commitment to design, innovation, and craftsmanship, and its willingness to take risks and push the boundaries of what's possible.
A detail that I find especially interesting is how the new dial colors, Nightshade and Red L0lly, are created using a technique that involves tinting the 1mm-thick sapphire layer suspended above the metallic dial base. This not only adds a layer of complexity and depth to the dial, but also allows for a greater range of color options. What this really suggests is that Studio Underd0g is committed to pushing the boundaries of what's possible in watch design, and that they're not afraid to experiment and take risks.
In conclusion, the Studio Underd0g 02Series Gen2 is a watch that truly stands out in a crowded market. It's a watch that's both classic and contemporary, playful and powerful, and it offers a host of features that make it a great choice for anyone who wants a watch that's both stylish and functional. So if you're in the market for a new watch, I think the 02Series Gen2 is definitely one to consider. Personally, I think it's a watch that's worth every penny, and I can't wait to see what Studio Underd0g does next.
