Last year, I introduced you to the Second Hour Sattelberg, a field watch inspired by a key Australian victory in World War Two. Today, I have in my hand the next generation of Sattelberg, aptly named the Mk2. As I mentioned in my last review, I believe Second Hour’s signature feature is its intricate dial design. This was dialed down on the Sattelberg and it was a sensible choice given the watch’s purpose. The Sattelberg Mk2 incorporates just a touch of Second Hour flair to this capable tool.
Like the first generation, the Mk2 measures 40mm wide, 47mm long, and 10.5mm thick, including the flat and AR-coated (6x) sapphire crystal. Its stainless steel case has been treated for 1200Hv hardness for outstanding scratch resistance. It is mostly brushed with a brightly polished finish on the upper and lower chamfers and the bezel’s outermost edge. This technique slims the watch considerably, making this already thin watch appear even leaner. The polished and signed crown screws down, sealing it for a respectable 100m water resistance rating. Divers may sneer, but the Sattleberg isn’t for Scuba.
Sleek lines and gently cured lugs allow a comfortable fit. I found the Sattelberg worked well on my 6.75″ wrist, even when dressed up with a button-down shirt and its typically snug cuffs. For this, I also credit the low profile, 20mm bracelet with its short links.
A combination of brushing and polishing on the seven-segment links continues the theme set by the case. It has all the modern conveniences, too: single-ended screws, quick-release pins, and a slim signed clasp with push-button micro adjustment. Leather straps are optional.
This is a watch you will want to take out and show off. The lively case sets the stage for a dial that fuses pilot-style utility with delightful ombré center. A white minutes track frames the raised Arabic hours on a matte rings that give way to a shimmering center. White Swiss BGW9 Super-LumiNova on the hours and the tips of of the polished and faceted handset stands in stark contrast to the warm copper tones beneath them. A color-matched date is displayed in a porthole above the 6. Dabs of orange complete the picture – just in time for autumn here in D.C. It’s all very practical, yet quite pretty. Second Hour also offers it in blue and black.
Yes, the white-on-dark scheme looks good during the day, but it absolutely leaps into action when the lights go down. You would think that being only partially lumed, the hands might not be as visible. Such is not the case, as the different shapes and positions of the illuminated bits makes them perfectly easy to read at a glance.
The Sattelberg’s case back eschews the usual watch specs, instead offering information about the battle itself. Behind it, beats a smooth (28.8k bph) and reliable Miyota 9015.
The Second Hour Sattelberg Mk2 is a fine watch that exhibits its own character while building upon the strengths of the first-generation model. It lists for $586 US, which includes a zip case, screwdriver, and a two-year warranty. Leather straps are $45 US.
For more information or to order your own, see second hour.com.au.
