Studio Underd0g 02SERIES (Gen 2) Review

The British microbrand Studio Underd0g has grown significantly in the eyes of the wider audience over the last five years.

Since the launch of the original 02SERIES model in October 2023, Richard Bent's independent brand has gradually expanded its catalog, including collaborations, limited editions, and increasingly ambitious releases. However, the primary focus remains on the brand's playful chronographs. From partnering with Christopher Ward to full series of joint projects with Fears and opening its own space, The D0ghouse, the brand has confidently transformed from a promising newcomer to an established independent company.

This growth allowed for revisiting one of the more restrained models. The original 02SERIES introduced Studio Underd0g's first Swiss movement and the signature multilayer sapphire dial construction, yet the model was initially perceived as a platform with potential for development. Instead of a complete redesign, the brand chose an approach similar to the 01SERIES - releasing a second generation with subtle refinements in ergonomics, proportions, and finishing while retaining the unique character of the original.

The result was the new 02SERIES (Gen 2). In addition to two new dial colors, the watch features a thinner case, an updated movement, and a series of minor design improvements. The changes are modest, but collectively and considering the timing of the release, they reflect the brand's growing confidence in refining its own ideas. What has changed in the second generation of the 02SERIES? Let's take a closer look.

Case

At first glance, the case appears almost unchanged, and this is deliberate - as with the Gen 2 chronograph. The familiar field watch style of the 02SERIES retains its compact proportions and soft satin-finished stainless steel surface, but every detail has been finely tuned. The diameter increased from 37 to 37.5 mm, and the overall thickness decreased from 12 mm to 11.5 mm. The thickness is measured including the sapphire crystal; without it, the case is only 9.4 mm - a particularly thoughtful construction in terms of proportions.

A significant part of the thickness reduction is due to changes in the dial architecture. A shortened hand set, smaller hands, and a redesigned minute track allowed the domed sapphire crystal to sit closer to the dial surface. This created a more compact profile without losing the signature appearance. Water resistance remains at a practical 100 meters, and the screw-down case back retains the jellyfish motif from the original, now executed against a more contrasting matte finish for better detail.

Dials

The main visual novelty is two new colors: Nightshade and Red L0lly. These complement the returning Pink Lem0nade and Steffany Blue. All variants use the multilayer sapphire dial construction, which has become the hallmark of the 02SERIES and recent Studio Underd0g collaborations. Instead of colored paint, a thin 1mm top sapphire layer with tinting is used, through which a metallic sunburst layer shines, creating impressive depth. This technique gives the 02SERIES a unique look unparalleled in its price segment.

Besides the new colors, the dial underwent a design "clean-up." The minute track is shifted closer to the center for better readability under the domed glass, the hands have been completely redesigned, and the text on the dial is reduced for a tidier and more concise look. These changes aren't immediately noticeable, but together they make the appearance and wearability more harmonious compared to the previous model.

Movement

Another significant update concerns the movement beneath the dial. Instead of the previous Sellita SW210-1, the more modern hand-wound caliber Sellita SW200-2 M Power+ is now used. The power reserve increased from 42 to 63 hours - a significant improvement for a hand-wound watch. Now, fully wound on Friday evening, the watch will comfortably run through the weekend without needing adjustment on Monday morning. The movement remains simple - only hours, minutes, and seconds with a hacking feature, operating at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour, but it's an important improvement that enhances practicality and often puts the model on par with competitors, and sometimes surpasses them.

Strap

Each strap is tailored to match the dial color. The Red L0lly model comes with a black leather Pueblo strap, while the Nightshade features a rich burgundy leather Gaucho strap, both with contrasting cream stitching. All straps are equipped with quick-release spring bars, making changes easy and enhancing usability.

Conclusion

Many brands tend to radically change the design of a successful model, but Studio Underd0g consistently avoids this. The 02SERIES (Gen2) is the result of a brand growing more confident in refining its identity. This model is the most restrained and conservative of the two main Underd0g lines. Individual changes are not revolutionary, but together they make the already attractive and unique field watch even better. A thinner case, significantly increased power reserve, and two new vibrant colors represent evolution, not revolution, and this perfectly aligns with the brand's spirit.

Studio Underd0g 02SERIES (Gen2): Pricing and Availability

The Studio Underd0g 02SERIES model is now available in stores in London, New York, and Melbourne.

Price: £875 / US$1,200 / A$1,750