The Swedish brand Maen continues to refine its collection, returning to its roots.
The company conducted a deep analysis of its rapidly expanding catalog to assess how far it had strayed from its original concept. To this end, the team decided to redesign the Hudson series to better reflect the brand's initial intentions. Earlier this year, I had the chance to get acquainted with the updated Hudson 38 MK5 diver, which made a strong impression on me. However, Maen also updated the GMT version of Hudson. I tested the new Maen Hudson GMT MKII to understand how well it meets expectations.
Design and Construction of Maen Hudson GMT MKII
As with the Hudson 38 MK5 diver, the Maen team redesigned the case shape and construction of the Hudson GMT. The result is a thinner case with vintage design elements, such as a box-style domed sapphire crystal. The series was reduced from four models to two options. The version with a brown and black two-tone bezel has been retained, and a new one with blue and black inserts has been introduced. I was fortunate to test this new version and wear it for several days.
Case and Bezel Features
The new Hudson GMT MKII immediately impresses with its robustness and solidity. It's pleasant to hold the watch and feel the high quality of craftsmanship. The new stainless steel case has a diameter of 38 mm, a lug-to-lug distance of 47 mm, and a thickness of 13.1 mm, including the 2.1 mm domed crystal. Due to the protruding crystal, the watch looks and feels significantly thinner than one might expect from the numbers. The case features drilled lugs for strap attachment, and the finish is executed in an improved matte technique.
Around the crystal is a bidirectional bezel with 60 clicks and a two-tone blue and black insert. A distinctive feature is the very dark blue shade, which in artificial lighting is almost indistinguishable from black, creating more of a texture difference. However, in natural light, the blue color becomes noticeable, and the day and night division on the bezel is immediately readable. In the new version, Maen added a luminescent dot at the "12 o'clock" position and a triangle that matches the color of the gold 24-hour scale on the bezel.
Dial: Subdued yet Detailed
The black textured dial is adorned with applied hour markers filled with beige Super-LumiNova X1. At the "6 o'clock" position is a faceted date window with a white disc and black numbers. However, the white disc with beige lume seems a bit out of place with the overall color scheme. A black disc with beige print or beige with black would have been preferable.
The bezel features a 60-second/minute scale in white with dark blue 24-hour numerals. It supports the GMT indication on the bezel and allows displaying time in three time zones simultaneously. The scale is unobtrusive, giving the dial a layered and deep appearance.
Above the dial are large hour and minute hands with luminescent filling. Their multi-step design evokes positive emotions, and the second hand is equipped with a small luminous dot. Special attention is drawn to the GMT hand with a blue arrow-shaped tip - it is modest but distinct enough to stand out. Overall, I prefer the design of the GMT version more than the regular Hudson diver. The two-tone bezel insert and additional GMT hand add pleasant color accents and detailing.
Bracelet and Clasp
The look is completed by a new five-row bracelet, combining matte and polished links. It features quick-release links and a tool-free micro-adjustment clasp, significantly simplifying wrist adjustment.
Sellita SW330-2 Movement
Inside the case is an automatic Sellita SW330-2 Elaboré grade movement. This GMT caliber operates at 28,800 vibrations per hour, contains 25 jewels, and provides a power reserve of up to 56 hours. The movement is regulated in four positions and demonstrates an average accuracy of ±5 seconds per day with a maximum deviation of up to 20 seconds per day in all positions. Although the SW330-2 does not have a "flyer" caliber convenience, it is known for its reliability and is a suitable choice for the Maen Hudson GMT MKII. The movement is concealed by a screw-down case back with vertical brushing and a polished outer edge.
Comfort and Wearing Impressions
Adjusting the bracelet was very straightforward thanks to the screw links and the micro-adjustment clasp. When working with the bracelet, the high build quality is immediately felt: the watch is pleasantly heavy, yet the bracelet remains flexible and comfortable. On the wrist, the Hudson GMT MKII looks proportional - the 38 mm case is a perfect fit for my wrist, and thanks to the domed crystal, the watch appears much thinner than its 13.1 mm thickness.
I also like the combination of black and dark blue colors on the bezel. This subtle play of shades adds sophistication and style to the watch, especially combined with the retro atmosphere of the dial and bezel. At the same time, the watch does not look like a copy of past models - it maintains a modern relevance, which is especially valuable.
Conclusion: Maen Hudson GMT MKII as a Reliable Travel Companion
Overall, I very much enjoyed getting to know the updated Maen Hudson GMT MKII. In addition to the smart changes that made the case thinner, the watch looks better and has gained more character compared to the Hudson MK5. I definitely prefer it over the brand's diver series.
Maen has done an excellent job updating the Hudson GMT, and this MKII is among the best travel watches in its price range. Visually, the watch is easily likable, and on the wrist, it unfolds even better. Priced at €1,349 on a rubber strap, it's a very attractive offer. The version with a five-row steel bracelet costs €189 more - €1,538 including 21% VAT. The brand also offers a Jubilee-style bracelet for an additional €159.
From May 20 to 24, special pre-order prices for both color versions of the Hudson GMT MKII are available on the Maen official website - €1,249. For VIP clients and newsletter subscribers, the price will be €1,199. Honestly, among watches costing less than €1,500, few can surpass the Maen Hudson GMT MKII in quality and design. This is a worthy update to the Hudson GMT series, and I greatly enjoyed wearing these watches.