Maen Hudson MK5: The Kickstarter Success Story That Evolved Into a Microbrand Staple
From Kickstarter Campaign to Established Microbrand: Maen's Hudson Evolves
Eight years ago, a watch enthusiast named Mike Razak backed a Kickstarter campaign from a Swedish startup called Maen. The watch that arrived – the original Hudson diver – would become the foundation of a brand that's since earned a devoted following among collectors who appreciate accessible, well-built timepieces.
Now, with the release of the Maen Hudson 38 MK5, the brand revisits its roots while demonstrating how far it's come since those early crowdfunding days. Priced at $1,125 USD, this latest iteration represents a significant upgrade in both movement and finishing.
The Evolution of a Microbrand Classic
The original Hudson launched when dive watches were the standard for new microbrands. As aBlogtoWatch noted, "The diver was the sine qua non of microbrands in the late 2010s; if you were launching a brand, you almost always started with a diver." While the market has since diversified, Maen hasn't abandoned the watch that built its reputation.
The MK5 maintains the dimensions that made the original successful – 38mm wide, 11mm thick, and 47mm lug-to-lug – while introducing refinements throughout.
| Specification | Hudson Original | Hudson MK5 |
|---|---|---|
| Case Diameter | 38mm | 38mm |
| Thickness | 10.5mm | 11mm (13.2mm with crystal) |
| Water Resistance | 300m | 300m |
| Bezel Insert | Aluminum | Ceramic (Polished) |
| Movement | ETA 2824 | La Joux-Perret G100 |
| Power Reserve | 38 hours | 68 hours |
| Price | ~$400 (Kickstarter) | $1,125 |
Inside the La Joux-Perret G100
The most significant upgrade in the MK5 is the movement. After cycling through the ETA 2824, STP1-11, and Ronda R-150 across previous iterations, Maen has settled on the La Joux-Perret G100 – a Swiss automatic that offers a substantial 68-hour power reserve at 28,800 vph.
This choice reflects both the brand's growth and the broader microbrand movement landscape. As Swiss movement supply chains have evolved, brands like Maen can access higher-quality calibers that were previously reserved for watches at much higher price points.
Design Refinements
Visually, the MK5 makes subtle but meaningful changes:
- Polished ceramic bezel insert with lumed pip – replacing the earlier aluminum insert for improved scratch resistance
- Drilled lugs – a nod to vintage Rolex divers that allows for easy strap changes
- Fluted caseback – another vintage-inspired touch
- Updated handset – syringe-style hands with a lollipop seconds hand for excellent legibility
The bracelet deserves special mention. The split-finish center links add personality rarely seen on tool watches at this price point. A 20mm width with quick-release levers and a micro-adjust clasp make it both functional and versatile.
Microbrand Diver Landscape in 2026
The Hudson MK5 enters a very different market than its predecessor. Today's microbrand buyers have countless options, from budget Seiko mods to premium Swiss-powered pieces. What distinguishes Maen is the combination of proven track record, consistent quality control, and designs that age gracefully.
As aBlogtoWatch observed, "There's something curious about a vintage-inspired, affordable diver in 2026." Yet the Hudson persists because it delivers exactly what many collectors want: reliable performance wrapped in timeless design.
Value Proposition Analysis
At $1,125, the Hudson MK5 sits in an interesting middle ground. It's significantly more expensive than budget microbrands using Miyota or Seiko movements, but considerably less than Swiss divers from brands like Oris or Longines. The La Joux-Perret G100 movement and overall build quality justify the price increase over the original, though collectors should expect paying a premium for the brand's established reputation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Maen Hudson MK5 worth the price increase over the original?
Yes, for several reasons: the La Joux-Perret G100 movement offers double the power reserve of the original ETA 2824, the ceramic bezel is far more scratch-resistant, and the overall finishing has improved substantially. Additionally, you're buying from a brand with a proven track record and established customer service infrastructure.
How does the Hudson MK5 compare to the Christopher Ward C63?
Both are excellent Swiss-powered microbrand divers in a similar price range. The Christopher Ward offers a slightly more modern aesthetic and their excellent bracelet system, while the Maen leans into vintage charm with its drilled lugs and fluted caseback. Personal preference on design language will likely be the deciding factor.
Will there be a 42mm version?
Maen has not announced plans for a larger Hudson variant. However, the brand has expanded into other lines like the integrated-bracelet Manhattan collection, suggesting future releases may explore different case sizes and styles.
Sources: aBlogtoWatch