Listening to the Master -
Watches, Philosophy and VIVER
Q1. I heard you have been working with watches for over 55 years. How did your passion for watches begin and how has it changed over time?
A. My life with watches began quite by chance. I first encountered watches while processing and selling used watch bracelets. At that time I was so absorbed in my work that my fingerprints were almost worn away from polishing the bracelets.
Then, Some watch parts I received from a watch repair shop where I traded used bracelets marked the true beginning of my journey with watches.
By disassembling and assembling watches tens of thousands of times on my own, My attachment to watches and repair deepened. Now, I feel a sense of duty not only to repair watches but also to revive the time and memories associated with them.
Q2. In your opinion, What makes a good watch? Regardless of brand or price.
A. I always say that an honest watch is a good watch. Sometimes a watch may look impressive on the outside but the assembly inside is a mess. On the other hand, There are many simple watches that work precisely as designed and are easy to repair. In the end, A watch that is faithful to the basics and logically constructed will last a long time.
And I always think this way. There is no absolute master in repair. No matter how long you have been doing it, If you let your guard down you will make mistakes. If you do not constantly study and research your skills will decline. The same applies to choosing a good watch. To recognize a well-made watch I also need to maintain a humble attitude and keep learning.
Q3. If you had to choose only one watch to wear at this moment, Which would you choose?
A. If I had to choose just one, I would select the Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso. It has a classic beauty and the balance between what is shown and what is hidden, Like its reversible structure, Is philosophical. It is so delicate and sensitive to repair that it always makes me nervous. If I wore such a watch every day, I think I would never lose my beginner's mindset as a technician.
Q4. What does this collaboration with VIVER mean to you?
A. I do not see this collaboration as just a business. Within the Korean watch market, I believe that VIVER and Jang Sungwon Watches are each fulfilling their roles and that this is the beginning of a structure of mutual growth, Not harmful competition but one that helps each other thrive.
VIVER is responsible for transparency and accessibility in transactions through its digital platform, While I take on the role of providing trust and depth through in-person appraisal, Repair and education. I believe that this complementary and cooperative approach, Making the most of each other's strengths, Is essential for shaping the future culture of watches.
Grey
Watch nomad
