Ollech & Wajs was among the first companies to introduce a range of integrated bracelet sports models in the early 70s. But the brand was founded way before this date. It was back in 1956 when two Swiss watch specialists, Joseph Ollech and Albert Wajs, founded Ollech & Wajs. Prizing precision, robustness and durability above all things, the two associates sought only the best components to assemble the finest of wristwatches in their workshop. The Zurich-based company has ever since been dedicated to the creation of mechanical watches equal to any challenge.
The simple OW monogram quickly became known and respected on several fronts. Military and aviation watches proved popular among on American GIs and airmen, who needed a sturdy and reliable timepiece in the battlefields of Vietnam. Test pilots and scientists depended on watches like the OW Selectron, with its integrated slide rule performing as a calculator, including those all the way up to the NASA headquarters.
In 2017 a new collection of exceptional timepieces was unveiled, exemplifying the original vision of Joseph Ollech and Alberts Wajs and equal to the challenges of the 21st century.
Most notable of these was the OW Ref.8000 – a sleek and angular TV dial chronograph with a stunning !Havana brown fumé’ dial.
To mark the 50th anniversary of this pivotal watch, we have created a new model, which both epitomises and contemporises the character of the OW Ref.8000
The new, chronologically named OW 8001 has a brutalist, brushed stainless steel tonneau case, which flows seamlessly into an integrated brushed oyster-style bracelet, engineered for extreme durability and modelled closely on the original. For added comfort and stability, the bracelet is finished with a sturdy milled, engraved clasp, extendable up to 22 mm, and a double pusher- release system for extra security against accidental opening.
Unlike a lot of so-called sports watches, the OW 8001 is actually built for sports. It shares the streamline characteristics of its predecessor but has a distinctively more rugged, burly aesthetic.
An uncompromising 316L stainless steel case with a round dial aperture, an extra-thick sapphire crystal and screw-down crown guarantee a superior water resistance of 300 m (30ATM). Weighing in at close to 200g puts the OW 8001 firmly in the heavyweight division.
The dial itself reprises the !Havana fumé’ finish, achieved with a double-lacquering technique that creates a mesmerising radial gradient effect.
What elevates the OW 8001 to a class all of its own lies beyond its tough exterior. Inside the watch is a Chronometer-certified, deluxe version of the Soprod Newton Precision P092 – OW”s first COSC-certified model of the modern era. The bridge of each movement is stamped with the COSC number, confirming that it meets the accuracy and precision standards of the Official Swiss Chronometer Testing Institute.
Each OW 8001 also comes with Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres certification papers. The bespoke automatic, date-only calendar movement has 23 jewels and a 44-hour power reserve. The Soprod Newton P092 movement is also independently tested for dependability and durability at the internationally renowned Laboratoire Dubois in Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and has additionally been awarded a Chronofiable certification.
The OW 8001 represents a harmonious coalescence of durability, utility, precision, comfort and style, making it versatile enough to wear with a wetsuit or a linen suit.
It is priced at CHF 1,856, and as has become a new OW tradition, the first 56 will be numbered- crown editions. To secure your place on the reserve list, send an email to shop@ow-watch.ch, including your full name, postal address, phone number and email address. Shipping expected to commence mid-summer.
