The Second-Generation Studio Underd0g 02Series: A Slimmer, More Powerful Field Watch
Studio Underd0g, the British watch brand known for its playful take on classic designs, has unveiled the second generation of its 02Series. This new iteration builds upon the success of the original 02Series, which was introduced in 2023 as a "difficult second album" following the brand's colorful chronograph collection. The 02Series Gen2 takes a different approach, reinterpreting the classic field watch through Underd0g's signature playful lens, inspired by a theoretical 1945 Ministry of Defence brief and the iconic Dirty Dozen watches.
One of the most notable changes in the 02Series Gen2 is its slimmer profile. The case diameter remains compact at 37.5mm, but the overall thickness has been reduced to 11.5mm, down from 12mm in the original 02s. This reduction in thickness was achieved by reworking the dial and hand construction, allowing the crystal to sit closer to the display. Tighter assembly tolerances, made possible by Underd0g's in-house workshop, The D0ghouse, further contributed to the slimmer profile. The screw-down caseback still features the collection's Jellyfish image, a nod to its 100m water resistance, now presented against a matte background.
The dial has also undergone some improvements. The minutes track has been moved slightly inwards to enhance legibility beneath the domed crystal, while the handset has been completely retooled. The amount of printed text has been reduced and rebalanced, ensuring a more readable and visually appealing design. Two new dial colors join the existing Pink Lem0nade and Steffany Blue models: Nightshade, a deep purple tone, and Red L0lly, a cherry red. These colors are created by tinting the 1mm-thick sapphire layer suspended above the metallic dial base, with a sunburst pattern etched into the layer below, producing changing reflections through the colored sapphire. This technique was first explored in the brand's Manhattan collaboration with Fears.
Under the hood, the 02Series Gen2 boasts a significant upgrade in its movement. The Sellita SW200-2 M Power+ has replaced the previous Sellita SW210-1, still a manually wound movement inspired by the field-watch concept. The new movement runs at 28,800 vibrations per hour and now delivers an impressive 63-hour power reserve, an increase from the previous 42 hours. Hacking seconds are retained for precise time setting.
The Gen2 update also includes new leather straps by The Strap Tailor, with each color receiving its own unique combination. The Studio Underd0g 02Series Gen2 is available immediately from the brand and by appointment at The D0ghouse. Prices start at GBP 875, EUR 900, CHF 900, or USD 1,200, with worldwide shipping included. For more information, visit Underd0g.com.
Technical Specifications:
- Case: 37.5mm diameter x 11.5mm thick (9.4mm excluding crystal) x 46mm lug-to-lug - 316L stainless steel - two-part construction - domed sapphire crystal - screw-down caseback - signed crown - 100m water-resistant
- Dial: Pink Lem0nade, Steffany Blue, Red L0lly, or Nightshade - multi-layer construction with a 1mm sapphire upper dial - luminous markers - reworked minutes track and handset
- Movement: Sellita SW200-2 M Power+ - manual winding - 28,800vph - 63-hour power reserve - hacking seconds - hours, minutes, and seconds
- Strap: 18mm leather strap by The Strap Tailor, tapering to 16mm - quick-release spring bars - stainless steel pin buckle
In my opinion, the 02Series Gen2 is a testament to Studio Underd0g's commitment to innovation and attention to detail. The brand has successfully addressed the technical and ergonomic improvements, resulting in a watch that is both slimmer and more powerful than its predecessor. The new dial colors and movement enhancements make it a compelling choice for watch enthusiasts seeking a unique and stylish field watch.
