This Affordable Dive Watch is a Hidden Gem That Just Received an Impressive Upgrade
A true representation of timeless diver aesthetics.
Maen Watches
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Every time I delve into the specifications of a Maen watch (https://www.gearpatrol.com/watches/maen-manhattan-37-ultra-thin/), I can’t help but marvel at how this Swedish indie brand continues to thrive financially. (https://www.gearpatrol.com/watches/a37329330/maen-greenwich-38-gmt-watch-review/)
The recent Hudson 38 MK5 stands out as a prime example of the incredible value that Maen brings to the table, making it one of the finest dive watches you can find for under $1,000.
Maen Watches
At first glance, the Hudson 38 MK5 pays homage to the iconic dive watches from the 1960s. Its design strikes a balance between the legendary Rolex Submariner (https://www.gearpatrol.com/watches/rolex-price-increase-2026/) and the classic Seiko 62MAS (https://www.gearpatrol.com/watches/seiko-legacy-collection-2024/), while still integrating enough unique features to carve its own niche in the market.
The distinct baton hour and minute hands, characterized by their cropped and beveled borders, make the watch easily recognizable to those who are already acquainted with the brand. Moreover, the addition of a 60-second ruler-style chapter ring, introduced in 2020 with the MK3, enhances its practicality by allowing for precise timing.
Maen Watches
Launched in 2018, the Hudson series has quietly been a standout in the dive watch arena, and the newly unveiled MK5 — denoting “mark 5” or the fifth iteration — brings along a striking array of enhancements.
This model features a 38mm brushed stainless steel case available in either a deep blue or a classic black dial. The dials boast a textured matte finish that not only improves visibility but also minimizes glare. Customers can opt for a date function or a clean dial without it, with neither option affecting the overall price, as both configurations utilize the same movement.
Streamlined and Polished
Examining the exterior, the MK5 has notably reduced its case height to just 11mm, excluding the rise from the new box sapphire crystal introduced as a feature.
Maen Watches
The brushed steel case has also been slightly narrowed, which diminishes the convex curvature and creates an illusion of extended lugs. Responding to feedback from customers, Maen has incorporated drilled holes into the lugs for added convenience.
Perhaps the most striking update is the newly designed polished ceramic bezel insert, complete with a luminous dot at the pip, a feature that fans had specifically requested.
On the topic of luminosity, Maen has upgraded the luminescent materials in the hands and hour markers to the exceptionally bright X1 Super-LumiNova, ensuring visibility even in low light. The variant with the black date also showcases red luminescence in both the lollipop seconds hand and the tip of the hour hand.
Maen Watches
The reference MK5-M1.1.5 retains the signature red accents on the hands, dial, seconds track, and pip, a characteristic that has been a hallmark of the Hudson line since its inception. Conversely, the other three MK5 references present a more understated aesthetic.
The models with black dials feature matching black chapter rings, while the blue dials are complemented with white chapter rings. All four versions come with a sleek black ceramic bezel insert.
Enhanced Performance
Internally, Maen has given the Hudson 38 MK5 a substantial upgrade by equipping it with a La Joux-Perret caliber G100 automatic movement, regarded as a superior version of the Miyota caliber 9015, with both movements being produced under the Citizen Group.
This remarkable engine is a significant asset for a dive watch priced under $1,000, boasting a water resistance of 300 meters, a frequency of 4Hz, and an impressive power reserve of 68 hours.
Maen Watches
It’s worth noting, although not explicitly mentioned, that both the date and non-date versions utilize the same movement, which often suggests a "ghost setting" feature on the crown for models without a date function.
Availability and Pricing
One minor drawback I have regarding this incredibly priced dive watch is its inclusion of Maen's Lizard Pattern TPU Strap, shown in the initial image. Personally, I’m not a huge fan of faux lizard skin textures or rubber straps in general.
If your budget allows, I highly recommend spending an additional $184 at checkout for the three-link steel bracelet, which offers a sliding micro-adjustable clasp, quick-release pins, and polished edges on the center links for a refined appearance.
The Maen Hudson 38 MK5 (https://go.skimresources.com/?id=31959X896062&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.maenwatches.com%2Fcollections%2Fhudson-38-mk5&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.gearpatrol.com%2Fwatches%2Fthis-underrated-affordable-dive-watch-gets-a-significant-performance-upgrade%2F&xcust=%5Bcontentid%7C958642%5Brefdomain%7Cwww.gearpatrol.com%5Bcontentproductid%7C%5Bproductretailer_id%7C) will be available starting January 28 from Maen at a price of $875, which includes a black rubber pin-buckle strap, or $1,059 if you choose to add the steel bracelet.
Maen Watches
Specs for the Maen Hudson 38 MK5:
- Case Size: 38mm
- Movement: La Joux-Perret caliber G100 automatic
- Water Resistance: 300m
- About the Author: Brad Lanphear is an associate editor at Gear Patrol, specializing in watches and style. Prior to joining the team, he contributed to Heddels and Men’s Health. He is currently on an endless quest to discover the perfect pair of Japanese denim.
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