Where Time Leaves Its Mark
The story begins in 2003, when Dr Ludwig Oechslin issued a challenge: ‘Design a watch that displays all the information at a glance.’ This quest for simplicity led to the creation of the MIH watch, a masterpiece that raised money for the Swiss International Watch Museum in La Chaux-de-Fonds, while redefining mechanical elegance.
In 2020, production of the MIH watch was discontinued in Lucerne. For designer Christian Gafner, one thing was immediately clear: this watch must not be forgotten. He acquired the rights from Embassy Jewel AG with the aim of making this masterpiece accessible to a new generation in a new form. First, he sought to reconnect with the original MIH watch team. But neither the museum nor former watchmakers wanted to participate – not even the most sincere gestures could sway their resolve.
So Christian broke new ground and developed his own solutions. With perseverance and conviction, he gradually created Mechanik2 – a watch that continues the legacy of MIH while writing its own history.
2003 Beginning
Between 2001 and 2003, polymath horological genius Dr. 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 Dr. Ludwig Oechslin found ochs und junior, thus cementing his legacy of innovation and craftsmanship in the world of horlogerie.
Photo: Dr. Ludwig Oechslin
.jpg)
2004 Breif – 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 love for detail and flawless precision permeate every aspect of his work, revealing his deep appreciation for the subtle nuances of design. The idea for the two holes in the AM/PM indicator arose from his careful observation of the day disk. With technical insight and an analytical eye, he crafted a detail that perfectly unites function and aesthetics.
All the radii of the watch — from the crown, pushers, lugs, and strap ends to the buckle — consistently emanate from the center. The buckle is especially well designed: its recessed pin and slightly offset positioning reliably protect surfaces from scratches.
The proportions of the hands and indices are in perfect harmony — a piece of the finest industrial design.
Sketch: Christian Gafner
2005 Introducing the MIH watch
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 new Brand emerges
Following the launch of the MIH watch in 2005, the ochs und junior brand was founded in 2006 by Ludwig Oechslin and Embassy Jewel AG (owned by Kurt König), one of Europe's leading retailers based in Lucerne.
During his time as head of the brand and design department at ochs und junior, Christian Gafner played an important role in shaping the brand identity. Among other things, he was responsible for the design of models 1 to 3 of the “calendario cent'anni” (cca) series.
Photo: ochs und junior SA
2015 A watch supports 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 Takeover / further development into M2
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 annual calendar.
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: iIt is no coincidence that this timepiece still exists.
Photo: Mechanics2 Connaisseur
2021 Swiss Made Engineering
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 The Mechanik2 is born
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.
2020 What else was?
Photo: Christian Gafner GmbH
