Vancouver family brand keeps ticking
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, Q For those who aren’t familiar, what is Tense Watches?
A Founded 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.
Q When/why did you first start the brand?
A 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, Ken 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.
Q What makes it different from other watch offerings?
A More than 40 years of handson experience and in-depth research have led us to make the most durable, reliable, handcrafted wooden watches on the market. Understanding the materials — where they come from, how they react to temperature changes and what components work best with them — is knowledge that comes from experience.
Q Why use wood rather than other materials?
A 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.
Q What role do you think watches play in this world where there’s constant access to technology — and therefore, the time?
A Tense Watches are unique in every single way: 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 life, Mother Nature and the beauty that surrounds us.