Belgian Collectors Reveal Personal Histories Behind Patek Philippe, Hermès, and Longines Timepieces
Three Belgian collectors have shared how specific luxury watches mark personal milestones, family relationships, and their shifting relationships with time. De Tijd reported the profiles, detailing how pieces from Patek Philippe, Hermès, and Longines serve as daily wear or generational heirlooms rather than hidden investments.
Wouter Maeckelberghe Rejects Special-Occasion Storage for His Patek Philippe
Wouter Maeckelberghe, approaching his 70th birthday, owns three watches that he regularly alternates. He previously kept his Patek Philippe for special events only, but now wears it frequently. “The life is too short not to enjoy the nice things that you have,” Maeckelberghe told De Tijd, adding that a watch completes a man’s wardrobe and reflects his character and mood.
Maeckelberghe maintains a disciplined schedule despite taking time to slow down, walking daily through the Ter Kamerenbos in Brussels. “Punctuality is a sign of respect for others,” he stated to De Tijd, noting that he balances the energy of working under time pressure with an appreciation for nature.
Hélène Van Marcke Chooses a Men’s Hermès Arceau for Minimalist Longevity
Interior architect Hélène Van Marcke received an Hermès Arceau for her 21st birthday, selecting a larger men’s model because she prefers minimalist, understated designs. De Tijd noted that she chose the watch alongside her godmother and cousin, inspired by her grandfather who owned the exact same model. The timepiece features subtle equestrian details, including a clasp resembling a stirrup and slightly slanted numbers.
Van Marcke applies the same philosophy of longevity to her architectural work, favoring designs that withstand the passage of time over fleeting trends. Balancing her schedule after having children, she makes a distinct separation between obligatory time and personal time spent with friends and family.
Christophe Scheyvaerts Marks Career Milestones with Omega and Rolex
Christophe Scheyvaerts, founder of aluminum planter manufacturer Mazu, received his first timepiece at age 18 from his grandmother. De Tijd reported that he and his grandmother visited a jeweler in Antwerp to select a classic Longines Saint-Imier Chronograph with a leather strap to celebrate his graduation and time living with his grandparents.
Later, Scheyvaerts purchased two more watches himself to mark important moments in his life. Scheyvaerts hopes to pass his watch collection down to his two young sons later in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Wouter Maeckelberghe change how he wears his Patek Philippe?
Maeckelberghe shifted from wearing his Patek Philippe exclusively on special occasions to wearing it regularly because he believes storing fine goods away is an outdated principle, stating that life is too short not to enjoy them.
What specific equestrian details inspired Hélène Van Marcke about her Hermès watch?
Van Marcke was drawn to the Hermès Arceau’s symmetry, a watch strap attachment resembling a small stirrup, and the slightly slanted, slender numbers that evoke movement.
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