Ollech & Wajs C-1000 MkII - Specifications, Prices and Owners' Reviews

The Ollech & Wajs C-1000 MkII is a Swiss diving watch that perpetuates the legacy of the legendary "Caribbean 1000" from 1964. Founded in 1956 by Albert Wajs and Joseph Ollech in Zurich, the brand quickly distinguished itself by creating robust and reliable watches, prized professionals and enthusiasts of extreme activities.

Origins of the Caribbean 1000

In the 1960s, with the rise of scuba diving, demand for watches that could withstand increased depths intensified. In 1964, Ollech & Wajs launched the "Caribbean 1000", one of the first diver's watches certified for water resistance up to 1,000 meters (3,300 feet). This feat is made possible thanks to a revolutionary one-piece case, the “702”, characterized by distinctive pointed lugs. The Caribbean 1000 is quickly becoming a benchmark among professional and military divers, attesting to its reliability in extreme environments.

Rebirth with the C-1000 MkII

In 2024, the brand reintroduces the Ollech & Wajs C-1000 in the form of the C-1000 MkII, a modernized version which retains the spirit of the original model while integrating contemporary technical improvements. This watch features a 316L stainless steel case measuring 39.5mm in diameter and 15.8mm in thickness, providing a sturdy presence on the wrist. The domed sapphire crystal with anti-reflective treatment ensures optimal readability, while the 60-minute unidirectional rotating bezel allows precise measurement of diving times.

Movement and Performance

The C-1000 MkII is powered by the Soprod Newton P092 automatic caliber, recognized for its precision and reliability. This movement offers a power reserve of 44 hours and operates at a frequency of 28,800 vibrations per hour (4 Hz). Water resistance is guaranteed up to 1,000 meters (100 ATM), thanks to a quadruple-seal screw-down crown and a reinforced case back, making this watch an instrument of choice for professional divers.

Design and Aesthetics

The matte black dial of the C-1000 MkII features indexes and hands coated with Super-LumiNova®, ensuring excellent readability in the dark. The triangular indexes at the cardinal points recall the design of the reference OW105, another emblematic watch of the brand. The "rice bead" type stainless steel bracelet or the RAF style nylon bracelet, with a thin white line symbolizing the freedivers' lifeline, provide comfort and durability.

Commitment to Quality

True to Ollech & Wajs tradition, each C-1000 MkII is designed in Zurich and assembled by hand in Haute-Sorne, in the Swiss Jura. The watch undergoes more than a dozen operations and rigorous quality controls to guarantee an impeccable finish. This attention to detail and commitment to excellence make the C-1000 MkII a high-end diving watch, ready to accompany professionals and adventurers in the most demanding environments.

Conclusion

The Ollech & Wajs C-1000 MkII embodies the perfect fusion of historical heritage and modern innovation. By reinterpreting the legendary Caribbean 1000 with contemporary materials and technologies, Ollech & Wajs offers a diving watch that meets the highest standards of Swiss watchmaking, while honoring its prestigious past. Whether for professional use or for enthusiasts of robust and reliable watches, the C-1000 MkII stands out for its timeless design and exceptional performance.

Other C-1000 references are available such as the Ollech & Wajs C-1000 FAGN or the Ollech & Wajs C-1000 A... Lean on the Dialicious owners’ reviews to make the right choice…

(Up-dated Decembre 2024)