Tense watches keep on ticking
Finely handcrafted timepieces make a bold fashion statement in a digital world
If you already know about the family owned watch brand Tense Watches, you’re in good company.
But, if you haven’t yet heard of it? It’s high time that you did.
The Vancouver-based watch brand boasts a long history of using a unique material to craft cool, quality timepieces.
Frances Lau, co-founder of the brand, recently chatted with Postmedia News about the brand, which watch is most popular — and why her dad can still be found in the workshop nearly 50 years after starting the brand,
QFor those who aren’t familiar, what is Tense Watches?
AFounded locally in Vancouver, Tense is one of the pioneers that created the unique wooden watch in 1971. We specialize in producing high-quality, handmade wooden watches, crafted from 100 per cent recycled or reclaimed wood and powered by premium Ronda 6004D Swiss Movements or Japanese Miyota Watch Movements.
When/why did you first start the brand?
In 1957, my father Ken P. Lau started his career as a clock designer, experimenting with natural materials such as wood and stone. A decade later, he focused on wristwatches, and in 1971, Tense Wooden Watches was founded.
Even now, as my sister Anna and I run the business, Ken oversees the workshop, drawing upon nearly 50 years of experience to ensure our core beliefs of quality and craftsmanship are met every day.
Why use wood rather than other materials?
We have a long history of working with the natural materials around us. Our design inspiration is British Columbia, so it seemed a natural fit to work with reclaimed wood from the area. Our vision is to produce sustainable products that leave no lasting footprint in the world other than an esthetic one.
What’s the price point of a watch?
Tense watches generally range from $200-$400.
What role do you think watches play in as world where there’s constant access to technology — and therefore, the time?
Every watch is one of a kind and made-to-order from our workshop. They’re not just finely handcrafted timepieces, but accessories that make a bold fashion statement. In a digitally driven world, our natural watches are a reminder to appreciate Mother Nature and the beauty that surrounds us.
What’s next?
We’ll be adding more styles to our customizable feature later this year and into 2018, so every watch can be personalized to the wearer. Broadly, our focus is to reach more customers in North America and beyond.