Unveiling the Timeless Appeal of the Ochs und Junior Settimana PVD: A Watchmaker's Legacy
A Visionary's Journey: Ludwig Oechslin's Multidisciplinary Approach
In a world where complexity often reigns, Dr. Ludwig Oechslin's philosophy stands out. With a background in archaeology, a PhD in Philosophy, and a scholarship for theoretical physics and astronomy, he became a Swiss master watchmaker in 1983. Oechslin's unique path has led to a distinctive brand, Ochs und Junior, where he applies a multidisciplinary approach to watchmaking.
The Settimana Story: A 20-Year Legacy
As Ochs und Junior celebrates its 20th anniversary, we revisit the iconic Settimana model, a true testament to Oechslin's vision. The Settimana, designed in 2006, embodies his philosophy with an ingenious display of the days of the week. But here's where it gets controversial... instead of a conventional date window, Oechslin opted for a radical simplification.
The Art of Simplicity: Settimana's Ingenious Display
The Settimana, meaning 'week' in Italian, showcases the days of the week through a unique system. Seven holes, cut into the brass dial, are indicated by a rotating dot. Starting with Monday at 1 o'clock, the dot moves through the week, creating a visually captivating display. This simple yet graphic approach is a perfect example of Oechslin's minimalist philosophy.
PVD Dials: A Modern Twist
For 2026, Ochs und Junior introduces two new Settimana models with PVD-coated dials. PVD, or Physical Vapor Deposition, is a vacuum process that creates a vibrant, long-lasting surface. The black and brown PVD dials offer a modern aesthetic, with the black dial paired with pink hands and a contrasting weekday dot, and the brown dial featuring golden hands and indices.
The Case: A Study in Minimalism
The round, grade 5 titanium case is a masterpiece of simplicity. With a diameter of 36mm and a height of 10.8mm, it weighs just 55 grams. True to the brand's industrial aesthetic, the case reveals traces of machining and milling, adding a raw, deliberate touch.
The Movement: Efficiency and Innovation
Oechslin's Settimana is powered by an ETA 2824-2 automatic movement, with his ingenious weekday indication module. This tiny module, comprising only four additional components, is a testament to Oechslin's philosophy of simplicity. The movement delivers a reliable 42-hour power reserve, and the date function is suppressed to make way for the weekday display.
Strap Options: Complementing the Design
The black Settimana PVD comes with a black Ecopell calfskin strap, while the brown version is paired with a beige textile strap. Both choices complement the dials and reinforce the watch's minimalist appeal.
Availability and Pricing
You can order the Ochs und Junior Settimana PVD through the brand's website or by email. A 50% deposit is required, and delivery is estimated within 8 weeks. The export price is CHF 2,300, and the Swiss VAT-inclusive price is CHF 2,486.
And this is the part most people miss... the Ochs und Junior Settimana PVD is not just a watch, it's a statement of design, simplicity, and innovation. It invites us to appreciate the beauty of minimalism and the power of radical simplification. What do you think? Is this watch a masterpiece of modern design, or does it miss the mark? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments!
