Ollech & Wajs Swiss Automatic Havanna COSC Sports Watch #OW-8001

Born 1973, re-born 2023. Ollech & Wajs was among the first companies to introduce integrated-bracelet sports models in the early 70s. 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 created a new model, which both epitomises and contemporises the character of the OW Ref.8000
The 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 milled bracelet is finished with a sturdy milled, engraved clasp, extendable up to 22mm, 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). 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 among modern-day sports watches lies beyond its tough exterior. Inside the watch is a COSC-certified Soprod Newton Precision P092 chronometer – a bespoke automatic, date-only calendar movement that has 23 jewels and a 44-hour power reserve. The COSC certification process is carried out under strict conditions by the Contrôle Officiel Suisse des Chronomètres (COSC), the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute. It involves rigorous testing over 15 days, during which each movement is evaluated across various positions and temperatures to ensure it maintains a precise daily rate. Each chronometer certified movement receives an individual serial number and a certificate from COSC. This certification is unique to each movement, assuring that it has undergone and passed the stringent testing. In addition to this the base Soprod Newton P092 movement is independently tested for dependability and durability at the internationally renowned Laboratoire Dubois in Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland, and has been awarded a Chronofiable® certification. In short, the Ollech & Wajs Soprod Newton Precision P092 COSC is the most qualified Swiss movement in its class.

The OW 8001 represents harmonious coalescence of durability, utility, precision, comfort and style, making it versatile enough to wear with a wetsuit or a linen suit.