At an artisanal production site in Dokkum, Wybe van der Gang and his team produce watches in small batches that excel in craftsmanship and precision. With the utmost care and attention to even the smallest details, each design of Van der Gang Watches is truly unique.

TEXT: MARTINE VAN DER DEIJL

PHOTOGRAPHY: NOPOINTSTUDIOS

In 1990, I started my own company in precision mechanics. I have always had an interest in small products and wanted to start a business with them. A company with such a specialization did not yet exist in the Netherlands. We developed and manufactured extremely precise components for, among others, the aerospace and ophthalmology industries. The core of the company was clear: small products, with maximum attention and care. From the moment I started the business, my interest and eye for detail further developed. Where the drive comes from to make something in its most perfect form, I don't know exactly. What I do know: a beautifully made product makes me very happy.

FROM PRECISION MECHANICS TO WATCHES

‘From precision mechanics, I switched to watches in 2002. That was actually quite logical. We were already working with the smallest parts, and my love for beautiful watches also played a role. I started making watches with the idea that with our knowledge, experience, and the standards we set for production, we could achieve a higher level than what was common in the market at that time – and still is. Van der Gang Watches makes watches from the perspective of the highest achievable, rather than from the perspective of the highest possible profit. We apply techniques that are too costly for the average watch industry. We aim for the most beautiful result, and I dare say: we make the world's most beautiful watch cases.’

INTENSE CREATIVE PROCESS

'With eight people, we build about 170 watches per year. That says a lot about the intensity of the product. The editions are small: from 3 to 888 pieces. That number is partly due to the development time that goes into a new watch, but the uniqueness of a small edition also plays a role for our customers. Every design starts in my head and forms the basis of everything we make. I find that the most enjoyable part of my work. During the day, I am inspired by all sorts of things: travels, trade journals, and new technologies within the industry. The elaboration is very precise and an intensely creative process. If it turns out well, it can affect me emotionally. Then I think: wow, this has turned out beautifully. For the future, I have no well-defined plan. Entrepreneurship is quite tough; for years, I worked almost 24/7. In the last ten years, I have consciously tried to take more time for myself. To relax, I like to go sailing, but even in my free time, I continue to design. For example, we developed and had a ship built ourselves. The off button is sometimes hard to find; basically, my thoughts are always on.'