Hands-on with the D1 Milano D-Tech Oil II

A variety of oils have long been used in watches as lubricants, yet filling an entire case with oil remains rare. The reason for doing this is to enhance readability by eliminating reflections. Especially underwater, the difference is spectacular. Ressence is a brand that has made a name for itself with such watches, but Sinn and U-Boat have also offered them. D1 Milano can also help you out with their D-Tech Oil II.

D1 Milano charges $345 for the D-Tech Oil II, a surprisingly low price that can result in some anxiety about the quality of the watch. Offered in their usual clever packaging, the D-Tech Oil II does not disappoint at first sight. Its design is restrained, offering an understated elegance that is underscored by its modest size. The 39mm case diameter is spot on, as it provides great wearing comfort and makes the watch look more luxurious. It is one of those watches that doesn't need size to make an impression, as its design does it already. 

The case is well-rounded, with a domed sapphire crystal and a screw-down caseback. The finish is pleasing, and the lack of sharp edges means D1 Milano didn't cut any corners despite the watch's modest price. As the case is filled with oil, unscrewing the caseback is not advisable, and to change the battery, D1 Milano made an easy-to-open battery compartment in the middle of the caseback. The quartz Miyota caliber 2S60 is not a thrilling movement, but it is reliable, gets the job done, and allows D1 Milano to make this watch with just two hands, which works very well from a design standpoint.

The clean, matte-black dial combines style with legibility in a way only an Italian design can. There is minimal text on the dial, and the date is integrated in a subtle yet legible way. The color scheme is sober, yet it is very powerful because of that. It gives the D-Tech Oil II a timeless appeal, as it is neither too modern nor pursuing a retro theme. There is also something about that air bubble in the oil on the dial side. Could D1 Milano have made this watch without it? For sure, but then you wouldn't know that this watch is oil-filled. The bubble keeps you constantly aware of this, which adds to the watch's fun factor. 

The 20mm-wide bracelet is comfortable to wear as well and comes with a nice hidden clasp. What this doesn't hide is that the D-Tech Oil II was designed more as a competent design watch than as a bona fide dive watch. Its water resistance rating might have given that away already, as D1 Milano could have successfully pursued a higher rating. While the bracelet lacks a micro-adjustment option, the links are small enough that it's not an issue, and it should fit any wrist comfortably. D1 Milano delivers the D-Tech Oil II with plenty of links to fit even a large wrist.

Both the case and the bracelet are coated with black PVD. This gives the watch a stealth look that suits the dial design very nicely. Combined with the oil-filled case is the D-Tech Oil II, a fun watch that is of a higher quality than you might expect for its price tag. While it is that price tag that probably makes you buy it as a fun summer watch, it is the watch itself that will proof to have much more staying power in your collection. That is an accomplishment to be proud of in this segment of the watch world.

For more info, visit D1 Milano, here.