Hands-On With The Surprising Crafter Blue Mechanic Ocean Mark II Dive Watch

The new Crafter Blue Mechanic Ocean Mark II looks like a million bucks. Not literally, of course, but it does look way higher-end than the price tag would suggest. US$449 buys you a watch that punches well above its weight. This intro might read like a conclusion, but there is more to say about this robust yet sophisticated-looking diver than simply stating that it’s an excellent bang-for-the-buck watch.

Initially, there were three versions of the Mechanic Ocean Mark II available. The reference MO2SS007.HK, limited to just 30 pieces, is already sold out. The black-dialed reference MO2SS001 and the reference MO2SS007 with a gradient gray dial remain. The latter is my favorite and the one I wore the most. If you already have a few or plenty of black-dialed watches in your collection, the rich and retro-looking gray version is a nice complementary timepiece. When I saw the three Mechanic Ocean Mark II dive watches on the Crafter Blue website, the gray version spoke to me the most. After a request for a hands-on review, the black and gray versions arrived at Fratello HQ, and when I opened the box, the gray one still won me over. But that doesn’t mean the black-dialed diver doesn’t look good.

Scrutinizing the surprising Crafter Blue Mechanic Ocean Mark II dive watch

Let’s start with the specs of the Mechanic Ocean Mark II dive watch. The 316L stainless steel case has a 41mm diameter, a 13.5mm thickness, a 51.5mm length, and a 22mm lug spacing. While the diameter and thickness are pretty moderate for a dive watch, the slightly over 5cm length and 22mm lug spacing are on the larger side. The length of the watch might cause some problems on a smaller wrist, but on my 18cm wrist, it wasn’t a problem. The width of the Crafter Blue strap with its separate end links — Crafter Blue started as a manufacturer of aftermarket straps (2016) and went into the watchmaking game later with the Mechanical Ocean 300m (2018) — doesn’t affect the way it wears on the wrist, of course, but it does to the eye. More on that later.

Inside the case, which has a comforting 300m depth rating and a 120-click unidirectional dive bezel with a light blue pip, beats an automatic Miyota 9015 movement made in Japan. It might not be the most accurate movement available, but after spending US$449, it’s not something to get upset about, and the 42-hour power reserve is also agreeable.

Wearing the Mechanic Ocean Mark II

So far, all my encounters with Crafter Blue watches have been most satisfactory. Last July, I went hands-on with the Bon Voyage Macaron Super Chrono (I liked it), and in 2021, I tried out the Hyperion Ocean Chronograph (I loved it). And now it’s time to pass judgment on the Mechanic Ocean Mark II. As you already know, I’m very positive about the watch from a price perspective, but I also love how it looks. The case length might not be for everyone, but I like the elegant, long vertical silhouette it creates. The guarded crown at 4 o’clock, neatly integrated into the flowing lines of the case, also contributes to the sleek look.

The domed sapphire crystal is rather retro, while the clean, clear, flowing lines give off a more contemporary vibe. However, the mix of the two styles is not a sloppy hodgepodge. Rather, it’s an eclectic and thought-through cocktail. The use of color is very subtle. On the unidirectional, 120-click, deep-layered bezel with circular indexes rather than numerals, the sober two-tone look gets a tasteful color upgrade through a light blue 60-minute marker on the DLC-coated insert. Another subtle detail is the rubber strap with separate end links. It creates a harmonious look. It suggests an integrated design, which it isn’t, but it doesn’t look like it’s trying too hard. Instead, it gives the watch character. The end links add a bit of metal, making the case look strong and solid.

Final words on the Mechanic Ocean Mark II

As you would expect, I have nothing but positive words about both Mechanic Ocean Mark II dive watches. I favor the gray one but also appreciate the soberer black-dialed version. On my wrist, the watch sits well. The strap is soft enough but feels qualitative, as does its big steel buckle. This watch is ready to go diving but also works as a sporty daily beater — it is refined enough to operate under the radar in an office. If spotted, it will most probably trigger a positive response. And when the watch sparks a conversation after receiving praise about its looks, upon bringing up the price, more positive remarks will surely follow. Indeed, the new Crafter Blue Mechanic Ocean Mark II looks like a million bucks.

What do you think of this model or Crafter Blue’s watches in general? Feel free to let us know in the comments.