In 1956, two Zurich-based watch specialists, Joseph Ollech and Albert Wajs, founded Ollech & Wajs. Prizing precision, robustness, and durability above all else, the two associates sought only the best components to assemble the finest wristwatches in their workshop.
The simple OW monogram quickly became known and respected across multiple fields. Its military and aviation watches were widely worn by US forces in Vietnam, while pilots, engineers, and scientists relied on OW chronographs – including those working at NASA headquarters.
Underwater, OW’s divers’ line won the hearts of deep-sea explorers and diving clubs, beginning with the groundbreaking debut of the OW Precision Caribbean 1000 in 1964. With its patented stainless steel monobloc case and gasket system, the Caribbean 1000 was the first commercially available wristwatch with a certified depth rating of 1,000m (3,300 ft)
In addition to being worn by record-breaking skin divers and commercial oil-field divers, Caribbean 1000s were also issued in the 1980s to the fictional British CI5 agents Bodie & Doyle in The Professionals TV show.
The modern-day OW collection features a variety of professional sports watches and chronographs, built to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
The prize
Its latest model, the OW 8001 ‘Tundra’, is an integrated bracelet sports chronometer that blends Nordic design themes with the brutalist aesthetic of 1970s OW watches.
The Tundra was created in close collaboration with MIR, an avant-garde Norwegian architectural design collective. Based in Bergen, MIR is known for its groundbreaking CGI work, which explores the relationship between architecture and the environment. The watch is named ‘Tundra’ after the rugged landscapes that inspired its design.
Inside its angular 39.5mm tonneau case is a COSC-certified, bespoke version of the brand’s landmark Soprod Newton Precision P092 movement.
We’ve teamed up with Ollech & Wajs to offer you the chance to win an OW 8001 Tundra worth £1,720. All you have to do is answer the question below.
See more at ow-watch.com
The question is: In what year was Ollech & Wajs founded?
Competition closes: 30th April 2025
By entering the competition, it is deemed that the entrant accepts the terms and conditions stated below.
No purchase necessary.
Prize cannot be exchanged for cash equivalent.
Prize is not transferable.
One entry per person, no bulk or third-party entries, unless the rules of the competition state so.
No responsibility can be taken for any lost or delayed entries.
Winner must be 18 years old or over.
The winner will be chosen at random from all correct entries and will be notified by email.
The winner will need to confirm acceptance within 7 days of being notified. If the winner does not confirm acceptance within this timeframe, the promoter has the right to pick another winner.
