This page will house posts from Bench Buddy about various watch and clock projects Mike is working on. My current logo reflects my ambitions and family heritage. I am working to merge my passions for technology (the computer chip) with horology (the crown). The crown also represents my goal to do my best work.
The numbers 47, 74, 25 are a nod to my family line heritage with horology. My Grandfather Bernard Hugo Wunderlich opened a jewelry store in Creighton, NE circa 1947. This started a family tradition of horology. He made clock and watch repair a key aspect of earning his livelihood. My Father Robert Otto Wunderlich learned the trade in his father’s shop as a youth, along with my uncle. Circa 1974 my father started a home clock shop and began taking clients – establishing his formal practice which he operated regularly until around 2018 and then periodically until his death in 2025. In September 2025, I decided to give bench work another go and have been working steadily since to learn. I have worked on several watches and clocks, all for myself except a few “light services” for friends where I may have replaced a watch battery or done some research on a family piece.
MW represents my own phase on this horological journey. I am joined by my Uncle Joe Wunderlich as a key mentor, based in Pennsylvania; my brother David and nephew Nathan who reside in New Hampshire. My cousins also share an interest in this area, having notable collections and accomplishments in both repair and jewelry making. Collectively we share our experiences and often our knowledge and expertise.
It is a fun adventure and this area exposes some of my ongoing work so I can share it more broadly.