Studio Underd0g 02SERIES Mantis: Full-Lume Field Watch with X1 GL C3 Super-LumiNova
Studio Underd0g's Mantis Edition Brings Seven Layers of C3 Lume to the Field Watch
British microbrand Studio Underd0g has become known for injecting color and personality into classic watch designs. Their latest limited edition, the 02SERIES Mantis, takes this approach to the extreme with a full-lume dial featuring seven layers of X1 GL C3 Super-LumiNova. The result is a field watch that transforms from a green ombre dial by day to a uniform neon glow by night.
What Makes X1 GL C3 Special?
The X1 GL C3 grade represents one of the brightest and longest-lasting formulations in the Super-LumiNova family. While standard C3 is already the industry's most popular green-glowing lume, the X1 designation indicates an enhanced formula with superior brightness and extended glow duration.
| Lume Grade | Glow Color | Brightness Level | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|
| C3 Standard | Green | Medium-High | Dive watches, field watches |
| X1 GL C3 | Green | High | Premium dive watches, limited editions |
| BGW9 | Blue/Aqua | Medium-High | Luxury sports watches |
| C1 | Green (pale) | Medium | Hands, secondary markers |
Seven Layers of Lume: The Mantis Approach
Studio Underd0g applied seven layers of X1 GL C3 Super-LumiNova to achieve the Mantis's distinctive full-lume effect. This multi-layer approach ensures even coverage and maximum brightness, allowing the green ombre dial to transition into a single, uniform glow in darkness.
The dial itself features a gradient that fades from a yellowy-lime hue at the top to a blued mint green at the bottom. By day, this creates an attractive color palette; by night, the entire surface becomes a brilliant green glow. The hands are filled with true yellow lume for contrast, while the "herb" washed suede strap from The Strap Tailor continues the forest green theme.
The Gen2 Platform
The Mantis builds on Studio Underd0g's second-generation 02SERIES platform, which introduced several refinements over the original:
- Case Size: Reduced from 37.5mm to 37mm diameter
- Thickness: Slimmed from 12mm to 11.5mm
- Movement: Upgraded from Sellita SW210-1 to SW200-2 M
- Power Reserve: Increased from 42 hours to 63 hours
- Lug-to-Lug: 46mm for improved wearability
Limited Edition Scarcity Model
The Mantis was offered through a unique sales window — available for just nine hours on September 1, 2026, from 3pm to 12am BST. This scarcity model, combined with a price of $1,200 (matching the permanent 02SERIES collection), created immediate demand among collectors who appreciate both the full-lume concept and the brand's playful design ethos.
A small allocation was also reserved for visitors booking appointments at Studio Underd0g's in-house facility, The D0ghouse. Once the order window closed, the Mantis was discontinued as a limited edition.
Full-Lume Dials: A Growing Trend
The Mantis joins a growing number of watches that use luminescent material as a primary design element rather than just a functional addition:
- IWC Pilot's Watch Black Aces: The first IWC with a fully lumed black dial
- Delma Oceanmaster Lume: Available in four full-lume color options
- Louis Chevrolet Frontenac Lumed Flying Date: A dress watch with full-lume dial
- Ocean Crawler Lume Rush: A diver dedicated to maximum lume
These watches demonstrate that lume has evolved beyond pure functionality into a legitimate design language, allowing brands to create timepieces that literally transform in the dark.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many layers of lume are typically applied to a watch dial?
Most watches use 1-3 layers of Super-LumiNova on their dials and markers. Studio Underd0g's seven-layer application on the Mantis is exceptional, resulting in a thicker, more uniform lume coating that produces a brighter and longer-lasting glow. This level of application is rare due to the additional cost and production complexity.
Does more lume mean longer glow duration?
Generally yes — a thicker application of lume material contains more luminescent pigment, which can absorb and emit more light. However, the quality of the lume grade (X1 vs. standard C3) and the charging conditions also significantly affect glow duration. The Mantis's seven layers of X1 GL C3 should provide exceptional longevity compared to standard single-layer applications.
Is the Studio Underd0g Mantis still available?
No, the Mantis was a limited edition available only during a nine-hour sales window on September 1, 2026. Once that window closed, the model was discontinued. Collectors interested in similar full-lume field watches should watch for future limited editions from Studio Underd0g or explore alternatives from brands like Delma and IWC.
Sources: Worn & Wound, Studio Underd0g, RC Tritec
Related: Best Field Watches Under $2,000 | Top Microbrand Watches of 2026