Legacy
2003 – How it all began
Between 2001 and 2003, polymath horological genius Ludwig Oechslin meticulously fashioned a ground-breaking prototype from brass: the first one-line annual calendar watch. Each piece evidenced his dedication to precision and innovation, revealing his belief that simplicity unlocks the extraordinary.
As gears turned and springs released, the linear annual calendar emerged, capturing time’s essence with perpetual motion. This prototype marked a milestone, inspiring watchmakers to push boundaries and redefine horology’s possibilities. 2006 saw Ludwig Oechslin found ochs und junior, thus cementing his legacy of innovation and craftsmanship in the world of horlogerie.
Photo: Ludwig Oechslin
2005 MIH Museum launch
2005 witnessed the debut of the MIH watch at the International Watch Museum in La Chaux-de-Fonds, Switzerland. More than a timepiece, it was a tribute to horological artistry and a catalyst for preservation.
Nestled in Switzerland’s watchmaking heartland, the museum houses a priceless collection in need of upkeep. A significant portion of MIH watch sales was earmarked for restoring these treasures. With each purchase, enthusiasts not only acquired a finely crafted watch, but also became patrons of the museum’s legacy.
As the MIH watch adorned wrists worldwide, it symbolised a union of craftsmanship and conservation. It ensured that the museum’s timeless pieces would continue to inspire future generations.
Photos: Bea Weinmann
2006 A brand develops after the MIH watch
Following the launch of the MIH watch in 2005, renowned watchmaking outfit ochs und junior was founded in 2006 by Ludwig Oechslin and Embassy Jewel AG (prop. Kurt König), one of Europe’s leading retailers in Lucerne.
During his time as Head of Brand and Design at ochs und junior, Christian Gafner played a key role in shaping the brand’s identity. He was responsible for designing the calendario cent’anni (cca) models 1 to 3, among other creations.
Photo: ochs und junior SA
2015 A watch sponsors a watch
A portion of the proceeds from each MIH watch sold was earmarked for the International Watch Museum (MIH) in La Chaux-de-Fonds. This was to support special projects that benefited both watch buyers and museum visitors.
The first initiative involved the restoration of a remarkable 150 cm tall clock by Breton watchmaker Daniel Vachey (1904 – 1991), acquired by the MIH in 2002 with funding from the “Amis du MIH”. In 2005, archaeologist and watchmaker Peter Maria Verhoeven was engaged to conduct the analysis and restoration of this impressive Gothic cathedral-inspired timepiece.
Photo: Bea Weinmann
2020 Closing time, embracing the future
After Embassy Jewel AG decided to discontinue production of the MIH watch, Christian Gafner took the reins and began work on a new series: the Mechanik2.
The journey to its launch was fraught with uncertainty, as numerous obstacles nearly derailed the project. Yet, driven by a clear vision to present this timepiece to a new generation of enthusiasts and connoisseurs, and propelled by tireless dedication, he overcame these challenges. It was this unwavering commitment that ultimately paved the way for the Mechanik2 series¹.
In short: it is no coincidence that this watch has made its return.
Photo: Corinna Widmer
2021 Advancing ingenuity
In Switzerland, master watchmaker Jérémy Freléchox, renowned for his work with Audemars Piguet and Girard-Perregaux, embarked on a new venture: the redesign of the Mechanik2 watch. Inspired by the MIH watch, Freléchox created the Vanguart Black Hole Tourbillon, a contemporary masterpiece of precision, elegance and technical brilliance.
This ambitious project was undertaken in collaboration with Christian Gafner GmbH (founded in 2021), work which contributed to the redevelopment and enhancement of the Mechanik2. The subtle redesign, expertly crafted by Christian Gafner himself, epitomises a harmonious blend of innovation and fuss-free design.
Drawing: Jérémy Freléchox
2022 Launch of the Mechanik2 Series¹
In August 2022, mechanik2.com was launched and the Mechanik2 quickly attracted attention. This timepiece, which is produced in various series, serves a niche market.
Many of our customers, both men and women, became aware of the Mechanik2 through word of mouth or are actively looking for specialised mechanical watches.
What else was?
Photo: Christian Gafner GmbH
.jpg)
2004 Briefing “Time at a Glance”
In early 2004, Lucerne was abuzz with anticipation when Christian Gafner received a commission from Embassy Jewel AG. Located in Switzerland, the retailer tasked Christian with designing a new timepiece for the International Watch Museum in La Chaux-de-Fonds.
Christian eagerly accepted the challenge, sketching initial designs that blended Swiss tradition with innovative flair. Months of meticulous refinement followed as he honed his sketches into detailed blueprints, aiming to create a watch that would not only showcase elegance but also embody mechanical precision.
Christian’s focus on detail and precision is evident in every aspect of his work and reflects his deep appreciation for the granularity of design.
Sketch: Christian Gafner
