The story begins a long time ago. My father received a classic Reverso from my mother for his 50th birthday (25 years ago). I think that my love for watches began at that moment. Although I now have a well-stocked collection, the Reverso has always remained present but distant, perhaps I was aware of the fact that I would rarely wear it. But after giving one to my wife for the birth of our daughter, I started to take an interest in the model again. But there are so many... The choice would certainly have been more difficult if I had not attended a masterclass on watchmaking at the famous Jaeger boutique on Place Vendôme in Paris during which I fell in love with this duoface model with moon phase. It was a few years ago now, but when I had the opportunity to get my hands on this model, I jumped at the chance. It is too recent for my opinion to be final, however I remain captivated by the level of details and finishes that undoubtedly make it a watch for "big boys" to "Frenchify" the Anglo-Saxon expression. Of course, the moon phase is not the most useful complication nor is it used the most, but what a pleasure for the eyes, especially when there are 2 in the same watch. A detail that has its importance: the different sets of bracelets provided with the watch. I think that is what I particularly like in current fashion trends: we allow ourselves to wear it whenever we want, when we want, even a Reverso so dressed with jeans and a t-shirt. This approach speaks to me a lot.

JLC reverso duoface tribute moon

Watchmaking is a very strange passion sometimes. We all know it, we think we are satisfied when we buy our first watch by saying to ourselves "that's it, I have the watch of my dreams, it will calm me down for a while". And then a few months later - or year(s) for the most patient - we say to ourselves "having a collection requires eclecticism, so why not this one?". And then we find ourselves buying a new watch as soon as the opportunity arises or finances allow it. For me Glashütte Original has always been synonymous with prestige. But, I think it took me a while to really get interested in their models due to the lack of an official store. Far from being a criticism, this allows watch lovers to have access to a fabulous brand that does not pay for pharaonic marketing campaigns. Swatch Group certainly, but with the DNA of a high-precision watchmaker and specifications worthy of a 100% independent store. The only problem is that the model I like the most is no longer in the catalog. So I turned to Chrono24 (for the first time) to find the model of my dreams: the Senator Hand Date with matte black dial. A little apprehension when buying, but once I received the watch, I must say that it is probably one of those that had the most effect on me. Refined, elegant, with a sporty chic side, for me it is a watch that can be worn in all contexts, an essential criterion. The little detail that made me fall in love? The subtlety of the reverse date sub-dial. My purchase was therefore above all influenced by the emotion that the design of the watch gave me, the DNA and authenticity of the brand, and the level of details for a price that defies all competition (even Grand Seiko...). Only one problem: the addiction to Glashütte Original begins, and it seems impossible to stop.

Let's take German lessons!

Not much to say really. This watch ticks all the boxes and it would certainly be the one I would keep if there was only one left. It can be worn in all contexts depending on its strap, which I particularly appreciate. Historic, comfortable, sporty but classic, in short: legendary. The chronograph that every collector must have. Nothing more to add dear aficionados!

Mandatory in a collection

Before acquiring my first Rolex, a 41mm rhodium DJ, I was mainly eyeing professional models. Unfortunately (or fortunately?), at that time (in 2019), it was unthinkable to find a new one without having a purchase history as long as your arm at your AD. Intent on buying a new model at all costs, I did not even consider the second-hand option. So it was after several years and a watchmaking journey that had evolved over time that I said to myself: why not? Let's specify that I had the opportunity to buy a 126610LN at my AD in Muscat. But after trying it on, there was no longer any doubt, I needed a thinner model, easier to wear and with an aluminum bezel. So I headed to my favorite second-hand store and found it within a minute. 2 days later I had it on my wrist, and have never regretted it since!

A must-have

I would say that my attraction to this watch begins above all with a particular interest in IWC. Their use of materials, their strategic reorientation by offering less classic colors for a classic but assertive look speak to me. Already owning a pilot chronograph that meets all expectations, I therefore kept a close eye on their collection. And thanks to a friendly relationship forged with my AD in Abu Dhabi, I naturally moved towards something classic and unique at the same time. A Mark XVIII with its DNA almost as old as the brand and a scratch-resistant titanium ceramic case adorned with a TOP GUN logo at 9 o'clock which gives it an unusual look convinced me to take the plunge. No regrets since, for me it has all the advantages of a sports watch, without the disadvantages of a brand with too many connotations. The fact that it had a limited production of 750 pieces per year, that it is a reference to a legendary film and that it will be discontinued in 2024 are only pluses. Maybe I will get some comments about his SW300, but quite honestly, why would I complain? It is flawless. 
All in all, a practical, different, comfortable and limited watch. A no brainer 🙂

Watchmaking, the field and cinema: a winning trio!

So it never stops... The more you have, the more you want! After finding a good excuse to acquire a new watch, I started to feel around me. As often, I did not have a precise idea in mind. A friend and great collector was parting with several models at the same time. So I decided to take a look at what he was offering. Even before seeing the watch in question, he was "convinced" that I would like this model, despite my mixed opinion on the Hublot brand. Like many others, it is true that I perceive this brand as "look at me", (too?) young, messy, and with models often too inspired by other brands. But, I let myself be tempted by putting it on my wrist, and I must say that the result was very convincing indeed. First of all, I must emphasize the quality of the integrated bracelet and its folding clasp. A big fan of this type of bracelet (and I didn't own one until now), I immediately liked the look. Then, the combination of the bronze dial and bezel, with the gold indexes and hands, really give a spectacular look on the wrist. The very thin titanium case and the integrated bracelet give this watch great comfort. It is probably the most pleasant watch to wear in my collection (after Rolex). Add to that, a limited edition of 100 pieces for the Sultanate of Oman (one more!) and a second khaki rubber strap, and the deal was in the bag! In short, this Hublot Classic Fusion Golden Jubilee perfectly fulfills its role: sporty, modern, light and pleasant to wear. It will probably not be one of the most worn in my collection, but I think I will always find the right opportunity to do so, with pleasure, and that is above all what I am looking for. So, in two words, mission accomplished!

Hublot Golden Jubilee Sultanate of Oman

For a while now, I had been thinking about the idea of a second-hand Tudor, and I didn't mind the prospect. But when I looked at the models offered by the brand, the 79220R seemed obvious to me. It is the quintessence of Tudor. With its avant-garde design, vintage logo and unique colors, this watch breathed new life into the brand that was then in decline. Equipped with the ETA 2824-2 movement, it was the only Black Bay to benefit from it, the manufacturer switching to "in-house" movements a few years later. This criterion particularly appealed to me. Not because I am a fervent fan of the 2824, although its performance speaks for itself, but because this watch marks the beginning of a new era in the watchmaking world. At a time when every manufacturer is loudly proclaiming its skills in developing movements entirely "in-house", the fact that Tudor (aka Rolex) has taken - or not - the "risk" (or rather the audacity?) of relaunching its production thanks to an ETA delights me to the highest degree. There is no doubt that this watch will soon be among the most sought-after in my collection.

Tudor's 79220 R: the beginning of a myth

First of all, Grand Seiko is the only brand in my collection that is not Swiss, is it the fault of the marketing of the big watchmaking houses? Probably. After some time of reflection on less "classic" brands and in search of something exceptional, my interest had initially turned to brands like Glashütte Original and Blancpain, without having a specific model in mind, although the idea of a green dial had remained in my head. So I decided to broaden my field of vision to Japan (probably helped by a famous episode of Duel Time!). A bit by chance, I came across this model, and there was no room for doubt! It was the right one! Refined, silent, subtle, with an unmatched level of interior and exterior finishes, this watch ticks all the boxes that interest me today in my watchmaking journey. Nothing is left to chance, without falling into the superfluous. This watch has all the characteristics of a dress watch, but offers such a range of colors that we are tempted to wear it in a more sporty version. There is no doubt, the emotion is there; having a Grand Seiko on the wrist is truly exceptional. One question remains: does the Grand Seiko brand suffer from the brand image associated with its sister brand? Or is it a deliberate and assumed choice of the Japanese brand which thus, targets above all the "connoisseurs"? In the end it does not matter, with its finishes close to fine watchmaking, Grand Seiko outperforms the brands that are placed in the same price range. We cannot therefore speak of competition...

Grand Seiko SBGJ G Shunbun: The most captivating of all!

My first Rolex... It's hard to share an opinion that has evolved so much. Let's stick to the watch: reliability, robustness, can be worn in all contexts (which I love) and disconcertingly comfortable for so much steel. However, the scratches tend to frustrate me so much that I abandoned it in favor of other watches... If the brand didn't treat customers this way, maybe I would have gone back to have it polished, but no, I prefer to move on. The first and most certainly last Rolex in my collection. I like it, a lot, a lot even, but one will be enough for me. (Unless the crazy prices of the submariner 16610 become reasonable again, at which point maybe... But no, what am I talking about, let's see!)

Rolex datejust 41mm rhodium

Timeless, art deco, classic, trendy... All the adjectives could describe the Jaeger Lecoultre reverso. I rarely wear it but every time I put it on my wrist, the same effect occurs: I'm crazy about it. Initially a little reluctant because it's a "small" watch, but I think that this kind of model should continue to be worn in their original format. A watch that hasn't changed its design since 1931 and is still all the rage, what can we add? Nothing... We look at it and we appreciate it.

JLC Reverso classic: un must have!

The square Frederique Constant Heart Beat is a watch from another era, but one that I think will come back into fashion regularly. With its almost wavy rectangular shape and its crazy Roman numeral indexes, it represents the fusion of two eras: art deco and post-modernist. A large watch for men's wrists and very comfortable to wear.

Frederique Constant Heart Beat square

The Omega Seamaster Diver 300 has nothing to envy the Rolex Submariner in my opinion. Yes, I compare it because it suffers from this comparison. With its helium valve, its resistance to 300m and its magnificent wave dial, it is for me the reference in terms of diving in recent years. The sports watch goes everywhere.

Omega seamaster diver 300

As during my time in PMEA, it is difficult to summarize the emotion that this watch gives me when I wear it. To put it simply: it has become my favorite watch and the one that I wear the most since I acquired it (especially since I added a folding clasp and a rubber-lined strap). The sunray blue dial is incomparable and unrivaled, and seeing the patina evolve almost every day makes it special. An everyday watch, offering exceptional performance and reliability worthy of fine watchmaking. IWC all the way!

IWC IWC IWC!

The IWC brand was created in 1868 by the American Florentine Ariosto Jones in northeastern Switzerland. He founded a watch factory in Switzerland to supply the American market with quality movements and benefit from the know-how of the Swiss workforce. He settled in the town of Schaffhausen following his meeting with Johann Heinrich Moser, watchmaker and industrialist.
<h2 dir="ltr">History of the IWC brand</h2>
Known for its watches in areas such as scuba diving or combat with the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/iwc/aquatimer"> IWC Aquatimer</a>, the house acquired its reputation with watches in the aeronautical sector from 1936. The brand is also recognized in the marine sector with the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/iwc/portugieser"> IWC Portugieser</a> created in 1939 to meet the demand of two Portuguese importers of the brand, Rodrigues and Teixeira.
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does an IWC watch cost?</h2>
The prices of new IWC watches change every year, but most IWC models cost between CHF 8,000 and CHF 12,000. For example, a<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/iwc/ingenieur/review/65952649c78129179ad4037b"> IWC Ingenieur Automatic 40</a>, a reissue of the famous IWC Ingenieur SL designed by Gerald Genta, is sold for CHF 12,000, while an IWC Perpetual Calendar in Ceratanium costs CHF 53,000. IWC also offers models in precious materials and set with diamonds for a more feminine clientele.
<h2 dir="ltr">IWC: Much more than aviator watches</h2>
IWC is owned by the Richemont group as<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/panerai"> Panerai</a>,<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/vacheron_constantin"> Vacheron Constantin</a>,<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/cartier"> Cartier</a> and produces around 150,000 watches per year, all models combined. To choose an IWC that suits you best, Dialicious owners' reviews are a valuable resource for evaluating each of the different models through real customer experience.
(Updated January 2024)

La marque Ollech &amp; Wajs a &eacute;t&eacute; cr&eacute;&eacute;e en 1956 par Joseph Ollech et Albert Wajs &agrave; Zurich en Suisse. Albert &eacute;tait charg&eacute; de la conception, de l&rsquo;ing&eacute;nierie et de la fabrication des montres, tandis que Joseph s&rsquo;occupait du marketing et de la vente au d&eacute;tail. Avant de cr&eacute;er leur propre montres sous la marque Ollech &amp; Wajs, ils ont commenc&eacute; leur activit&eacute; en 1954 en fabriquant des bracelets en acier pour d&rsquo;autres marques.
La marque est connue pour avoir distribu&eacute; des montres &agrave; des unit&eacute;s de l&rsquo;arm&eacute;e am&eacute;ricaine pendant la guerre du Vietnam et pour avoir gagn&eacute; sa renomm&eacute;e aupr&egrave;s des plongeurs et pilotes du monde entier.
Apr&egrave;s 12 ans de n&eacute;gociation et apr&egrave;s avoir &eacute;t&eacute; son distributeur pour le march&eacute; fran&ccedil;ais, en 2017, Charles Le Menestrel, un passionn&eacute; d&rsquo;horlogerie, rach&egrave;te la marque. La gamme actuelle comprend des mod&egrave;les comme la Ollech &amp; Wajs P-101 et la <a title="Page Ollech &amp; Wajs P-104" href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/p-104">Ollech &amp; Wajs P-104</a>, la <a title="Page Ollech &amp; Wajs C-1000" href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/c-1000">Ollech &amp; Wajs C-1000</a>, la <a title="Page Ollech &amp; Wajs Ocean Graph" href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/ocean_graph">Ollech &amp; Wajs Ocean Graph</a> et la Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron.
<h2>Combien co&ucirc;te une montre Ollech &amp; Wajs ?</h2>
Les prix des montres Ollech &amp; Wajs &eacute;voluent et diff&egrave;rent selon les mod&egrave;les. La plupart co&ucirc;tent entre CHF 1,500 et CHF 2,000 selon les mod&egrave;les et les finitions. Comptez CHF 1,456 pour une Ollech &amp; Wajs 350CI et pr&egrave;s de CHF 2,300 pour une Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron Chronographe. Le march&eacute; de l'occasion est &eacute;galement une opportunit&eacute; &agrave; regarder pour acheter une Ollech &amp; Wajs moins ch&egrave;re. Les mod&egrave;les Vintage notamment les Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron et&nbsp;<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/ollech_&amp;_wajs/astrochron">Ollech &amp; Wajs Astrochron</a>, sont tr&egrave;s pris&eacute;es des collectionneurs et ils convient de bien se renseigner sur le vendeur avant de franchir le pas de l'acquisition d'une vintage.
Ollech &amp; Wajs est une marque de montres ind&eacute;pendante et produit plusieurs centaines de montres par an, tous mod&egrave;les confondus. Pour choisir une Ollech &amp; Wajs qui vous correspond le mieux,&nbsp;les avis clients Dialicious sont une pr&eacute;cieuse ressource pour &eacute;valuer chacun des diff&eacute;rents mod&egrave;les &agrave; travers l'exp&eacute;rience r&eacute;elle des clients.
Consultez le <a href="https://www.dialicious.com/top/les_meilleures_marques_de_montres_suisses">Classement des meilleures marques de montres suisses</a> dont Ollech &amp; Wajs fait partie.
(Mise &agrave; jour Octobre 2024)

The brand Ollech &amp; Wajs was created in 1956 by Joseph Ollech and Albert Wajs in Zurich, Switzerland. Albert was responsible for the design, engineering and manufacturing of the watches, while Joseph handled marketing and retail sales. Before creating their own watches under the brand Ollech &amp; Wajs, they started their business in 1954 making steel bracelets for other brands.
The brand is known for distributing watches to units of the American army during the Vietnam War and for having earned its reputation among divers and pilots around the world.
After 12 years of negotiations and after having been its distributor for the French market, in 2017, Charles Le Menestrel, a watchmaking enthusiast, bought the brand. The current range includes models like the Ollech &amp; Wajs P-101 and the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/p-104"> Ollech &amp; Wajs P-104</a>, the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/c-1000"> Ollech &amp; Wajs C-1000</a>, the<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/ocean_graph"> Ollech &amp; Wajs Ocean Graph</a> and the Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron.
<h2 dir="ltr">How much does an Ollech &amp; Wajs watch cost?</h2>
The prices of Ollech &amp; Wajs watches change and differ depending on the model. Most cost between CHF 1,500 and CHF 2,000 depending on the models and finishes. Expect to pay CHF 1,456 for an Ollech &amp; Wajs 350CI and close to CHF 2,300 for an Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron Chronograph. The second-hand market is also an opportunity to look at to buy a cheaper Ollech &amp; Wajs. Vintage models including the Ollech &amp; Wajs Navichron and<a href="https://www.dialicious.com/en/ollech_&amp;_wajs/astrochron"> Ollech &amp; Wajs Astrochron</a>, are very popular with collectors and they should find out about the seller before taking the step of purchasing a vintage one.
Ollech &amp; Wajs is an independent watch brand and produces several hundred watches per year, all models combined. To choose an Ollech &amp; Wajs that best suits you, Dialicious owners' reviews are a valuable resource for evaluating each of the different models through real owner experience.
Consult the<a href="https://preprod.dialicious.com/en/top/the_best_swiss_watch_brands"> Ranking of the best Swiss watch brands</a> of which Ollech &amp; Wajs is part.
(Updated October 2024)

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