Introduction
In a world where luxury watch brands often take themselves too seriously, Studio Underd0g arrives like a splash of watercolor on a monochrome canvas. The 03SERIES, reference 03sab, is the brand’s take on a no-nonsense three-hand automatic that refuses to be boring. With a dial that pairs saffron yellow with deep blue accents, it’s a watch that demands a second glance—and then a third.
Founded by Richard Benc in 2021, Studio Underd0g has quickly carved a niche for itself among young collectors who value individuality over heritage. The 03SERIES is the third iteration of the brand’s core line, following the 01 and 02 series, and it refines the formula with a more compact case, improved legibility, and a strap system that adapts to any wrist. This review focuses on how the 03sab actually performs over a week of real-world wear—from morning coffee to evening cocktails.
Manufacture History
Studio Underd0g was founded in 2021 by Richard Benc, a British designer with a background in graphic design and a passion for watches. The brand’s name is a playful nod to the underdog spirit, and its watches are designed to be accessible, colorful, and full of personality. The 03SERIES represents a maturation of the brand’s design language, moving from the more experimental 01 and 02 series to a cleaner, more wearable format. The 03sab, with its saffron and blue dial, is one of the most popular variants, embodying the brand’s ethos of making horology fun again.
Movement
Inside the 03sab beats the Seiko NH35, a movement that needs little introduction. It’s an automatic caliber with hacking and hand-winding, a 41-hour power reserve, and a frequency of 21,600 vph. While it’s not COSC-certified and lacks the decorative finishing of higher-end movements, it’s a proven workhorse that can be serviced by any competent watchmaker. For the price, it’s the right choice—reliable, easy to replace, and accurate enough for daily use. In my testing, the movement ran at +12 seconds per day, which is well within Seiko’s tolerances.
Specifications
- Case Diameter: 38.5mm
- Case Thickness: 12.5mm
- Lug-to-Lug: 46mm
- Case Material: 316L Stainless Steel
- Crystal: Domed Sapphire with AR coating
- Water Resistance: 100 meters
- Lume: Super-LumiNova C1 on hands and indices
- Strap: Brown leather with quick-release spring bars
- Clasp: Polished pin buckle
Wrist Feel
The 03sab wears remarkably well on a 6.5-inch wrist. The 38.5mm diameter and 46mm lug-to-lug keep it compact, while the 12.5mm thickness is slim enough to slide under a dress shirt cuff. The leather strap is supple from day one, and the pin buckle is low-profile. Weight is balanced—neither too light nor too heavy—making it an ideal companion for all-day wear. The domed sapphire crystal adds a vintage touch without distorting the dial. Over a week, I forgot I was wearing it, which is the highest compliment for a daily driver.
Accuracy
The Seiko NH35 in my test sample ran at +12 seconds per day out of the box, which is within spec for a non-COSC movement. After a week of mixed wear (office, gym, sleep), it averaged +14 seconds per day. This is perfectly acceptable for a watch at this price point, and a quick regulation by a watchmaker could bring it to within +5 seconds if desired.
Occasions
The 03sab is versatile enough for daily wear, casual sport, and even dressier occasions thanks to its compact size and refined dial. The 100m water resistance means it can handle rain, hand washing, and even a swim, though the leather strap should be swapped for a NATO or rubber if you plan to get it wet.
Wrist Presence
3.5/5 — The 03sab is not a wallflower—the saffron dial demands attention—but its compact dimensions keep it from being obtrusive. It’s a conversation starter without being a statement piece. On the wrist, it feels like a confident accessory that doesn’t scream for validation.
Reference Variants
The 03SERIES includes several dial colors: 03ser (Serrano green), 03pom (Pomegranate red), 03blu (Blueberry blue), and the 03sab (Saffron and Blue). Each variant uses the same case and movement, differing only in dial color and accent details. The 03sab is the most striking, with a gradient saffron dial and blue minute track.
Family References
The 03SERIES follows the 01SERIES (40mm, more vintage) and 02SERIES (42mm, more tool-watch). The 03SERIES is the most refined, with a smaller case and improved legibility.
Other Models by Studio Underd0g
Beyond the 03SERIES, Studio Underd0g offers the Desert Sky (a GMT), Watermel0n (a colorful diver), and Pepsi (a GMT with a red-blue bezel). All share the brand’s playful aesthetic and affordable pricing.
Similar Watches
If you like the 03sab, consider the Seiko SNXS79 (similar size, automatic, but less colorful), the Dan Henry 1962 (vintage-inspired with colorful dials), or the Timex Marlin Automatic (classic design, lower price).
Homages
While the 03sab is itself an original design, budget-conscious buyers might look at the Pagani Design PD-1661 for a Submariner-style watch, though it lacks the unique dial character of the Studio Underd0g.
Investment Value
With an MSRP of $550, the 03sab is priced competitively for a microbrand automatic. Pre-owned prices hover around $400-$500, reflecting a slight depreciation. This is not an investment piece; buy it to wear and enjoy. No major auction history exists.
Service Interval
Studio Underd0g recommends servicing every 3-5 years. The Seiko NH35 is easy to service by any watchmaker, with costs around $200. No need to send to the brand.
Price Range
$500-$600. Verdict: Excellent value for a unique, well-built automatic with a personality that far exceeds its price tag.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Unique, vibrant dial that stands out
- Compact and comfortable case dimensions
- Good lume for nighttime legibility
- Sapphire crystal and 100m water resistance
Cons
- Non-in-house movement with modest accuracy
- No date complication (may be a pro for some)
- Leather strap may not suit all climates
- Limited brand recognition outside enthusiast circles
Final Verdict
The Studio Underd0g 03SERIES ref. 03sab is a delightful daily wearer that proves you don’t need a six-figure budget to own a watch with character. Its saffron dial is a joy to read, the case wears like a dream, and the Seiko movement keeps time well enough for real life. If you’re a young collector looking for something that breaks the monotony of black dials and steel bezels, this is your watch.
