Ollech & Wajs 8001 Tundra Owner Review : Powerful, athletic and radical

If you're drawn to powerful watches with bold lines that tell a visual story, then the OW8001Tundra is a model to discover. Born from a collaboration between Ollech & Wajs and the Norwegian studio MIR, it reinvents the DNA of the reference 8001—itself inspired by the OW 8000 chronograph from the 1970s—in a masterful fusion of Nordic architecture and robust watchmaking—a piece for lovers of unconventional objects with bold, unmistakable roughness. ▶️ An overall impression as cool as it is striking On the wrist, it's the Tundra's physical presence that stands out: its brushed tonneau case, sharp angles, and perceived width, reinforced by the integrated lugs, lend it an almost monumental stature. With its 39.5mm diameter and 12.7mm thickness, while remaining under 60mm from lug to lug, it boasts thoughtful ergonomics despite its "controlled massiness." Its water resistance to 300 meters (30 ATM)—the minimum for a modern Ollech & Wajs—and its anti-reflective sapphire crystal reinforce the feeling of a tool ready for extreme conditions, which are one of OW's trademarks. ▶️ A case built to last Crafted from fully brushed 316L steel, this angular case houses a generously sized screw-down crown and a screw-down caseback, highlighting a design built to last. The fixed bezel features a radial pattern, which, according to the brand, evokes Norwegian topography—a direct homage to MIR's architectural inspiration—evoking fjords, reliefs, and frozen forests. ▶️ The Dial: A Smoky Green Landscape in Motion Reflecting the icy landscapes of the North, the green smoked dial unfolds in a gradient from the center to a darker perimeter, revealing shades of moss, stone, or icy water depending on the light. The applied indexes and baton hands are coated with Super-LumiNova, ensuring flawless visibility. A date window located at 6 o'clock respects the visual balance of the dial, as well as the aesthetic hallmarks of the brand. Indeed, all modern OW watches feature a date at 6 o'clock! A detail for some, but rather a sign of maturity and a consistently consistent message from the brand... ▶️ Certified and Proven Swiss Mechanics Beneath an unvarnished case beats the Soprod Newton Precision P092 caliber, a movement designed for Ollech & Wajs, COSC-certified in its chronometer version, with a 44-hour power reserve, a 4Hz frequency, and 23 jewels. It also obtained the Chronofiable® label after acceleration, shock, and wear tests according to the protocols of the Dubois Laboratory in La Chaux-de-Fonds. Each movement bears an engraved number, testifying to its passage through the Swiss Official Chronometer Testing Institute. Enthusiastic users report it to be precise, with deviations of around +3 to +6 seconds per day, or even better depending on the position. Remember that all OW watches are at least chronometer-certified by the COSC. ▶️ An integrated bracelet with pronounced ergonomics The integrated design of the bracelet reminds me of that of my personal Jaeger-LeCoultre Master-Quartz (review on the Dialicious platform). Whatever you think, OW sourced this bracelet from its historical heritage—probably manufactured at the time by Châtelain (a Chanel subsidiary since 1997). Fully brushed to maintain its consistency with the rest of the watch, it incorporates a robust, machined clasp with a fine adjustment, ensuring comfort and security, even during intense activities. Its weight is notable—around 200g—but it's deliberate, adding to the impression of robustness. ▶️ A strong story for connoisseurs The OW 8001 pays homage to the legendary 1973 reference, the OW-8000, and retains its spirit: uncompromisingly vintage and raw, while resolutely embodying a modern approach. With the Tundra, the brand, along with MIR, anchors its story in a real place—the Norwegian tundra—and a language of horizontal gemstones, mineral architecture, sharp angles, and visual contrasts. The result is a watch with a unique character, with accents that are both utilitarian and poetic. ▶️ A clear and legible positioning Listed at 1956 CHF (all OW prices ending in 56), the Tundra positions itself as a piece where functionality, certified precision, and bold design justify its price. With a 3-year warranty and worldwide delivery including taxes and duties, it embodies a modern, structured, and transparent proposition. Note the carrying pouch with a sophisticated design and finish, like a Kongsberg pistol holster, of Norwegian origin... Another military affair for OW! ▶️ A watch for the unashamedly demanding The Ollech & Wajs OW8001Tundra doesn't seek unanimity—it asserts a powerful, raw, and visually striking stance. It is aimed at those who see watchmaking as an instrument, even a visual manifesto. At times a diving companion, at times an urban confidant, it offers its wearer a confident allure—and a style that is unmistakable. This OW is available immediately on the Ollech & Wajs website as well as at retailers such as Long Island Watch in Farmingdale, NY (USA), Chatel Atelier in Carmel-by-the-Sea, CA (USA) or Stewart's The Watch Company in Leicester (UK). My "Mood Board" with this Ollech & Wajs 8001 Tundra: Film: The Keep (1983) Music: Marian (The Sisters of Mercy) Location: Broceliande Forest (Brittany, France) All technical specifications are below or on the brand's website. XS