Pim Koeslag’s Personal Relationship with Time and Watches – A Christiaan van der Klaauw Feature
The interview explores Pim Koeslag’s personal relationship with time and watches, revealing how his work at Christiaan van der Klaauw is shaped by a blend of scientific curiosity, artistic creativity, and reverence for precision. He describes the Planetarium as a turning point that opened his eyes to the poetic possibilities of combining watchmaking with astronomy, while emphasizing that true quality lies in innovative design executed flawlessly. Koeslag’s favorite complications include the still‑in‑development Grand Planetarium Eccentric and classic chiming mechanisms, and he highlights the quartz crisis of the 1970s as a pivotal moment that re‑established watchmaking as an art form. The conversation also touches on broader industry challenges, such as shifting retail models and the need for region‑specific marketing approaches, as well as sources of inspiration ranging from automotive engineering to celestial mechanics. Koeslag reflects on influential figures like Gérald Genta, whose mentorship encouraged him to think beyond limited production runs, and shares personal anecdotes, including the sentimental value of a Franck Muller Curvex Chronograph gifted by a late colleague. He advises younger collectors to prioritize personal desire and uniqueness over external trends when choosing their next timepiece.
Buying Time Analysis: This interview reveals how Pim Koeslag’s blend of scientific curiosity, creative ambition, and personal mentorship shapes a visionary approach to watchmaking, highlighting the transformative impact of interdisciplinary inspiration and the evolution of the industry beyond traditional boundaries.
