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At first encounter, the alternative time display of the new Ochs und Junior Two Time Zones + Date might have you blinking for a moment in non-comprehension. A simple explanation will make clear how the time is read, however, and you’ll find a good amount of useful information readable at a glance. The brand specializes in quirky, minimalist designs that often rely on discs under the dial instead of hands — the result is an unusual look, but one that’s surprisingly practical.
The watch’s name provides the first clue to its functions. Two hands display normal analog time, but the numeral framed by the hour hand is a second time zone, which is set via the crown. This is the “Two Time Zones” part, and the date is simply indicated around the dial’s edge via circular cutouts. The asymmetric spiral shape of the date display track gives the design a little idiosyncrasy, but it also cleverly allows the dots to double as even-minute markers to make time-reading easier.
Powering the Ochs und Junior Two Time Zones + Date watch is a Ulysse Nardin UN-118 automatic movement modified by Ochs & Junior, which the brand says it has regulated the movement to an accuracy of 0/+5 seconds per day. At 12 o’clock on the dial, the movement’s 60 hours of power reserve is displayed via a small rotating disc with a dot printed on it — this shows that the spring is completely wound when pointing at 12 o’clock and that it is almost out of juice as it approaches 6. The rotating disc on the lower portion of the dial is the running seconds indicator, which constantly revolves to let the wearer know that the watch is running.
The Ochs und Junior Two Time Zones + Date’s austere design is emphasized by stark, mostly brushed finishing on its 42mm-wide case, which is available in Grade 5 titanium or sterling silver and water-resistant to 100m. Buyers can customize colors for a range of parts on the company’s website, including a black PVD titanium case and many strap options, and prices start at around $8,330.
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