MK II first released the Fulcrum Dive Watch in 2013. This isn’t spectacular in itself, but it’s worth noting that we recognize 12 years ago. The first model was a 42mm diving watch inspired by the Great Military Watch of the 1970s. The new MK II Fulcrum 39 is an optimized version of its early model. The most important update is a smaller case that follows the inspiration of the 70s. If you like classic diving clocks of the era, this fulcrum can be a very attractive offering. It’s time to learn more!
First, talk to the elephant in the room. Like all watches, the brains of pre-programmed watch enthusiasts pass through the watch Rorodex looking for a visual reference first. When it comes to the design of the MK II Fulcrum 39, it is easy to identify the initial reference. The legendary Rolex “Milsub” submariner clearly inspired the bezel and fulcrum hands. But that’s not where it ends. When I saw the dial and fully bead-blasted case and bracelet, the first watch that came to my mind was the vibrant titanium IWC GST aquatimer. At first glance, the Fulcrum 39 takes inspiration from two fantastic diving watches. IWC is a late 90’s diver, but I think it acts as a visual reference.
MK II Funcrum 39 date story
As many know, Rolex created a special “Milsub” (military submarine) for the British Ministry of Defense (MOD) in the 1970s. After the brand has provided Submariner Ref to the mod. 6538 In the late 1950s, when mods preferred the Omega Seamaster 300, there was a stint. So it took until 1971 for Rolex and MOD to start working together again. Rolex created three Milsub references over time. At first it was a ref. 5513, the second was a double stamp ref. 5513/5517, and finally, there was a ref. 5517. Milsubs has become famous among the Rolex Collectors and is one of the most popular models due to its story and rarity.
The MK II clearly adopted these Unobtainiums as inspiration for its fulcrum divers. Certainly, this brand makes the idea a little more common in its description, but the Milsub vibe on this watch is strong. To be perfect, the brand describes the inspiration for the watch as follows: “The fulcrum 39 represents the fusion and reinterpretation of design elements from our special forces’ iconic clocks in training with our Vietnamese or British counterparts.” In all fairness, the dial is different from the Milsub’s dial, and the bead blast finish gives a very practical overall look.
Specifications for MK II Fulcrum 39 dated
Let’s take a look at some details on the MK II Fulcrum 39 date. The watch comes with a 47mm lug-to-lug and a 39.5mm stainless steel case with a thickness of 14.1mm. That last measurement is a result of some of the double-dome sapphire crystals that add vintage charms. The case has a lug excavated and comes with a 120-click unidirectional bezel with black aluminum inserts. The MK II comes with two options: bezel inserts. The first is a 12-hour insert, and the second is a classic 60-minute insert received in the review model.
Combined with the case and bezel, there is a matte black dial with a large Super Luminova BGW9 marker on the cardinal point. One of the 12 o’clock has a classic large triangular marker, while the other three are rectangular markers. The markers will be smaller for the rest of the time, but they will be luminous.
At the boundary of the dial is a modest white minute track with slightly thicker markers every five minutes. At 4:30, there is a date window. This is another optional element. If you prefer that, you can select data or select data. Complete the look is Mirusub’s signature sword style hand typical of the art.
Spot-on-proportion
The watch comes with a bead-blasted oyster-style bracelet with a Toolless Micro-Adjustment mechanism with the familiar Nodex Clasp. The bracelet has a taper of 20-16mm from the link on the clasp, giving it an elegant look.
Overall, the watch appears to be very well proportional, and the matte beaded blast finish certainly gives the aesthetic of a proper tool watch that will attract fans. I love how the MK II handled minimal details to create a tool watch that not only looks good, but also provides great comfort, as we are trying to find.
Within the case, the MK II uses a 24 Jewel Miyota 9015 for the version of the date gear he had in the office. It operates at 28,800VPH and has a 42-hour power reserve. The brand has custom printed date wheels in the movement to fit the design appropriately. Additionally, this movement provides quick set dates and hacking capabilities.
For the non-date version, the brand is equipped with a watch on the Miyota 90S5, which has the same specifications as the 9015 but does not have a date function. Both moves have a formally stated accuracy of 30.30 seconds per day, but are known to be performed fairly accurately in real life.
Please wear MK II Funcrum 39 date
From the moment I took it out of the box and got careful, I knew it was great to wear it. The size and proportions are in my sweet spot and the watch feels very well made. But before I could wear it, I had to size the bracelet. Luckily, the link has a single screw, so it’s very easy to get the link you need, and I’m glad I went. I was lucky that I didn’t have to expand the microadjuster, but I had a bit of play during the week I was wearing the watch. It gave me a good idea about how easy it is to size a bracelet perfectly.
Once on your wrist, the fulcrum 39 demonstrates its status as a nonsense tool watch that is firmly rooted in military history. I’ve not been a huge fan of sword style hands, but they are certainly practical to tell the time. Plus, I think the MK II did something clever by combining them with rectangular markers. One thing I didn’t really liked was the 4:30 date window. However, the MK II covers buyers with no date versions, which is another clever decision.
It’s hard to deny how good the fulcrum 39 is
After getting the first impression I had time to properly wear the watch. The week I put on it gave me a good feeling to what I like about the fulcrum. And I can say that I have a lot of things I like. First of all, the watch is very well made. It is sturdy, sits nicely on your wrist, and the bracelet is fantastic. Knowing the price is just under 1,000 USD, it’s quick in terms of the best product and quality for money. Given how quickly quality has risen among affordable microbrands, it’s great to realize that the MK II is one of the best.
Place the watch on your wrist and the Nodex Clasp immediately stands out. I’ve seen it used in Nodus Contrail GMT and Vero Open Water models and that’s great. Of course, it’s a bit funny that the modern angular clasp is out of sync with the rounded style of the case and bracelet, but this was by no means a major problem for me. But after wearing the watch a bit, one thing I wasn’t a fan was the complete bead blast finish.
The finish is very specific and you have to like it
First of all, I like the look of the tool watch, but I also love the visual contrast between the brush/bead blast and polished parts. It brought a little pizza to the clock and I missed it over time. Additionally, the finish seemed to pick up small scratches and markings fairly easily. It’s completely normal, but the matte surfaces make them look pretty fast. I’m not that biggest fan. Please don’t get me wrong. I understand why the MK II chose this finish and emphasizes a utilitarian sense, but with considerations.
Other than that, I had a great time wearing the fulcrum 39 date. As mentioned, the watches are worn like charm, showing what makes the Rolex (MIL) sub so great. Does that make this watch great? I’ll leave it to you. I think this is a worthy compliment, but I wasn’t blown away like nodule x Raven Trail Trekker clay.
The watch takes obvious inspiration from the Rolex Explorer II, but there are plenty of outstanding elements that make it different. With the MK II Fulcrum 39, it may not be as clear. Certainly, the dial is different from a Rolex watch, but aesthetically that’s about it.
Final Thoughts on MK II fulcrum 39 Date
Other than that, I had so much fun wearing the MK II Fulcrum 39 date. As I said, it’s a well-made watch that is perfectly proportional to being a great everyday wearer. For USD 995, this watch is a favorite of many micro-brand fans. Especially if you’re a fan of 1970s military watches and especially Rolex Millsub, you should check this fulcrum 39.
After the Stingray II Keroman reviewed by Vincent in 2023, this is another military-style dive watch that quickly stands out. The MK II will become one of the go-to brands for fans of this genre. Not only is it epic, it’s difficult to find a better military watch inspired by vintages, and that’s a great compliment.
The date for Fulcrum 39 is in a very nice case. You’ll also get a cool watch magazine. It features the fictional story of a man who served in the military during the post-Vietnam period. The fulcrum 39 is placed in that world as a detachment (in the air) of the 39th Special Forces, or as a watch that the Det-A may wear during training missions.
This is a very well-executed magazine that tells a great story about the clock and adds it to its context. It shows that the MK II really has an extra distance to get the watch up and running.
What do you think about the MK II Fulcrum dated 39? Let us know in the comments section below!
