Mk II Project Recover BAKU Edition

The release of the Mk II Project Recover BAKU Edition represents a distinct intersection between horological preservation and historical remembrance. This wristwatch is not merely a time-telling device but a dedicated instrument of commemoration, designed to honor the memories of three specific servicemen—Black, MacMahon, and Roeder—who were part of the Underwater Demolition Team-10 during the Second World War. Mk II, an American watch company with a long-standing reputation for revitalizing vintage military designs, has partnered with Project Recover to create a timepiece that serves as a tangible connection to the past. The collaboration seeks to support the ongoing efforts to locate and repatriate Americans missing in action since World War II, bringing a sense of closure that has been delayed for decades.



The historical gravity behind this release centers on the origins of the Navy SEALs, specifically the Underwater Demolition Teams (UDT) of the 1940s. These units were tasked with the perilous job of reconnaissance and demolition to clear beaches for amphibious landings. The BAKU Edition specifically pays tribute to a submarine-borne Special Reconnaissance Mission in August 1944 in the Palau Islands. It was during this operation that three members of UDT-10 were captured and ultimately lost, their remains yet to be recovered. The watch serves as a vessel for their story, ensuring that the names of these men are not eroded by the passage of time.



From a design perspective, the watch is a study in functional evolution, merging the aesthetic of the A-11 field watch with the structural necessities of the UDT "canteen" watches. The case measures 39 millimeters in diameter, a size that deftly straddles the line between historical accuracy and modern wearability. While the original issued watches were significantly smaller, the slight increase in size allows for a more robust presence on the wrist without becoming overbearing. The stainless steel case features a brushed finish that absorbs light rather than reflecting it, a critical feature for a watch rooted in covert operations. The subdued, matte appearance of the steel gives the watch a purposeful, industrial quality, suggesting it is a tool meant to be used rather than displayed.



One of the most striking visual elements is the crown. The Hellion-BAKU utilizes an oversized "cap" style crown, a direct nod to the water-resistant canteen watches of the era. This design choice is not purely aesthetic; the larger surface area and knurled texture make the crown easily manipulatable, even when operating it with cold, wet hands or while wearing gloves. It sits prominently against the case, signaling the watch’s aquatic capabilities. The case architecture itself draws inspiration from the early waterproof designs introduced in the mid-1920s, utilizing a screw-down crown and case back to ensure a water resistance rating of 100 meters. This depth rating makes it perfectly suitable for the kind of shallow-water, free-diving operations that the original UDT members would have undertaken.



The dial of the BAKU Edition is a masterclass in low-visibility design, prioritizing legibility while adhering to the clandestine nature of special reconnaissance. The base of the dial is a deep, matte black, providing a stark background for the time-telling elements. Interestingly, the branding and text on the dial—including the Mk II logo and the "Project Recover" designation—are printed in gloss black. This "phantom" printing technique means the text disappears from certain angles, visible only when the light catches it just right. It is a subtle detail that keeps the dial uncluttered and focuses the wearer's attention strictly on the data that matters: the time. The "Project Recover" text is rendered in italics above the depth rating, a placement that historically signified a special co-branding or issued status, further linking the watch to its commemorative purpose.



Legibility in low-light conditions was a non-negotiable requirement for the original UDT watches, and Mk II has addressed this by maximizing the application of luminous material. The Arabic numerals are printed in a bold, highly legible font, and the luminous dots at the hour markers have been increased in diameter to hold a greater volume of Arclite SuperLumiNova. In the dark, the dial glows with a potent green emission, ensuring that the time can be read at a glance in the murky depths of the ocean or the dead of night. The high contrast between the white numerals and the black dial ensures that readability remains high even in broad daylight, where the majority of UDT missions actually took place.



The handset of the watch is perhaps one of the most thoughtful tributes to the specific history of the mission. The color scheme of gray, black, and white is not arbitrary; it mimics the camouflage pattern of the USS Burrfish, the submarine that carried the UDT-10 team. During the war, submarines were painted gray on the sides to blend with the horizon and black on the decks to merge with the dark water when viewed from above. White was used sparingly to break up the outline of the vessel. Mk II has translated this camouflage into the hands, with widened hour and minute hands that offer superior legibility compared to their vintage counterparts. The sweep seconds hand features a luminous tip, a standard requirement for military watches to verify the watch is running in total darkness. The counterweight of the seconds hand is shaped into an asymmetrical triangle, a geometric reference to the vertical stabilizer of the aircraft in Project Recover's logo and the folded flag presented to families of the fallen.



Turning the watch over reveals a case back that is rich in texture and meaning. The design mimics the back of a vintage canteen watch issued to UDT-5, specifically referencing the way markings were applied in the field versus in the factory. The text "USN BUSHIPS" is stamped into the metal, creating a deep, uniform impression. In contrast, the specific unit designation "UDT-10" and the serial number "25-000" are acid-etched. This difference in technique creates a visual and tactile contrast, simulating the way equipment would have been marked by different entities in the supply chain. The slight misalignment between the stamped and etched portions is intentional, a subtle reminder of the human element involved in both the production of the watch and the history it represents. The names of the missing men—Black, MacMahon, and Roeder—are etched into the center, serving as a private memorial against the wearer's skin.



The watch is powered by the TMI NH38 automatic movement. This Japanese-made caliber is known for its rugged durability and reliability. Crucially, the NH38 is a "true no-date" movement. Many modern watches that omit a date window still use movements with a date wheel hidden beneath the dial, resulting in a "ghost" position on the crown where the date would normally be set. The NH38 eliminates this, offering a clean, two-position crown operation that feels mechanically mechanically honest and precise. The movement is regulated in the United States to three positions, ensuring that it keeps time well within the requirements of a daily tool watch. With a power reserve sufficient for daily wear and a robust architecture, the movement is a logical choice for a watch designed to be a reliable companion rather than a delicate luxury item.



The visual experience of the watch is further enhanced by the double-domed sapphire crystal. Unlike the acrylic crystals of the 1940s, sapphire is virtually scratch-proof, ensuring the watch maintains its clarity over years of hard use. The crystal features an anti-reflective coating on the interior surface only. This is a practical decision often appreciated by enthusiasts, as exterior coatings can scratch and mar the look of the crystal over time. The double-domed shape introduces a slight distortion at extreme angles, adding a vintage warmth and character to the dial without sacrificing head-on legibility. It catches the light in a way that mimics the old plexiglass, giving the watch a soft, rounded profile that slides easily under a cuff or a wetsuit.



Completing the package is the Haveston M-1944C canvas strap. The strap is a faithful recreation of the cotton webbing straps used by the military in World War II, but constructed with modern techniques for greater durability. The olive drab color complements the brushed steel case perfectly, reinforcing the field-watch aesthetic. The hardware is brushed to match the case, and the single-pass design ensures that if a spring bar were to fail, the watch would remain attached to the wrist by the remaining bar. This type of strap is inherently comfortable, breathing well in hot conditions and drying relatively quickly if submerged. It adds to the overall "ready for action" vibe of the piece, suggesting a watch that is meant to be worn on adventures rather than kept in a safe.



Visually, when observing the watch in a natural setting, it projects an aura of capability. On a wrist surrounded by tactical gear or diving equipment, the Mk II Project Recover BAKU Edition looks entirely at home. The dull gleam of the brushed steel against the matte texture of the canvas strap creates a utilitarian harmony. It does not shout for attention with polished surfaces or bright colors; instead, it possesses a quiet confidence. The drilled lugs are a detail that watch collectors often appreciate, as they allow for quick and easy strap changes without the risk of scratching the lugs, further emphasizing the practical nature of the watch. It is a piece that looks better with a bit of dirt or sand on it, a watch that invites the wearer to use it as intended.



The packaging and accessories included with the watch demonstrate a commitment to the storytelling aspect of the project. Each watch comes with a mission patch and a copy of the "Guinea Pig One / Zero" zine. This publication provides a deep dive into the history of the UDTs, the specific mission of Black, MacMahon, and Roeder, and the modern-day efforts of Project Recover. It includes archival imagery and behind-the-scenes details on the development of the watch. This context transforms the ownership experience; the owner is not just buying a watch, but acquiring a piece of history and supporting a cause. The zine serves as an educational companion, bridging the gap between the artifact on the wrist and the events of 1944.



Mk II was founded in 2002 with a mission to reimagine inspirational designs from the past that may have been lost to history or never fully realized. The brand began by offering parts and customization services for other watches, pioneering the "modding" community that is so prevalent today. This foundation in customization gave Mk II a deep understanding of what enthusiasts value—quality components, precise tolerances, and faithful design. Over the years, the company evolved into a full-fledged manufacturer of American-assembled tool watches. Their philosophy of "utilitarianism, reliability, evolution" is evident in every aspect of the BAKU Edition. They do not simply clone vintage watches; they refine them, correcting the limitations of older technology while preserving the spirit of the original design.



The choice of the TMI NH38 movement also speaks to the brand's pragmatic approach. While Swiss movements are often touted for their prestige, the Japanese NH38 is a workhorse that is easy to service and replace if necessary. It aligns with the military philosophy of logistical simplicity. The fact that the movements are regulated in the USA adds a layer of quality control that elevates the performance above standard off-the-shelf specifications. This attention to detail ensures that the watch is not just a cosmetic tribute, but a functional instrument capable of keeping accurate time in demanding environments.



The Mk II Project Recover BAKU Edition is a limited release, reflecting the specialized nature of the project. The production is restricted to a small number of units, making it a rare item for collectors of military and field watches. The exclusivity is not manufactured for hype, but rather a result of the boutique nature of the brand and the specific focus of the collaboration. A significant portion of the proceeds from each sale is donated directly to Project Recover. Specifically, a minimum of $80 from each transaction goes to support the organization's expeditions and research. This philanthropic element is central to the watch's identity; it is a purchase that has a direct, tangible impact on the mission to find missing service members.



The pricing of the watch reflects its position as a high-quality, boutique production piece. At $649.00, it occupies a competitive space in the market, offering significant value given the custom engineering, the charitable donation, and the included accessories. It is available directly through Mk II, though given the limited nature of the release, availability is likely to be fleeting. For those who manage to acquire one, the Hellion-BAKU offers a unique combination of robust modern construction, thoughtful historical tribute, and genuine purpose. It stands as a testament to the idea that a watch can be a powerful symbol of memory, ensuring that the sacrifices of the past are carried forward into the future.



Case: Brushed 316L stainless steel; 39.00 mm width (excluding crown), 13.55 mm thickness, 48.50 mm lug-to-lug length, 20.00 mm lug width; double domed sapphire crystal with interior anti-reflective coating; double gasket screw-down crown; water resistant to 10 ATMs (100 meters); weight 78 grams.

Movement: TMI NH38 automatic movement; Made in Japan; regulated in 3 positions in the USA.

Dial: Matte black base with gloss black printed logo and text; Arclite SuperLumiNova (green emission) on indexes and numerals; "Project Recover" text in italics; gray, black, and white camouflage hands with lumed sweep tip.

Strap: Haveston M-1944C canvas strap with brushed hardware.

Price: $649.00 USD

Notes: Limited Series 1 run of 200 units; minimum of $80 from each sale donated to Project Recover; tribute to UDT-10 members Black, MacMahon, and Roeder; includes BAKU mission patch and zine.