From Fascination to Craftsmanship

My journey into watchmaking began with a fascination for the unseen: the intricate mechanisms inside a watch that make it tick. While many are captivated by the outward beauty of timepieces, I’ve always been drawn to the precision, craftsmanship, and technology within. The fact that such tiny, finely tuned components have powered watches for centuries is something I find both humbling and inspiring.

Over time, this admiration evolved into a hands-on pursuit. Through books, videos, courses, workshops, and countless hours of practice, I began exploring the art and science of watchmaking, realizing I wanted to take this passion further. I strive to improve with every project, embracing both the challenges and rewards that come with the trade. As the motto of Vacheron Constantin: Faire mieux si possible, ce qui est toujours possible (Do better if possible, and that is always possible).

What excites me most about working with watches is restoring them to their original perfection. There’s a profound satisfaction in seeing a watch run better than when it arrived in my workshop, knowing that my work has brought it closer to its intended state. Whether it’s a vintage heirloom or a treasured everyday piece, every watch I work on connects me to a rich tradition of craftsmanship, and I aim to honor that legacy with every turn of the screw.

Looking ahead, I want to continue growing my skills and knowledge while connecting with people who share my passion for watches. Every watch has a story, and hearing those stories—about first paychecks, cherished gifts, or family legacies—adds meaning to my work. My goal is not just to restore timepieces but to help others appreciate the beauty, technology, and history they represent.

The Story Behind the name of Othrys Watches

The name Othrys is more than a title—it is a tribute to the timeless ideals that shape our craft.

Othrys also carries a personal echo—one that ties my own name to the god of time. Van Huis translates to “from house,” and since Mount Othrys was the home of Chronos himself, the name felt fitting. It marks the place where time once lived, and where I now follow my passion for preserving it.

Rooted in the ancient world, Othrys recalls Mount Othrys of Greek mythology, the legendary dwelling of Chronos, the primordial god of time. In these mountains, time was not yet measured, but felt—vast, eternal, and unyielding. It’s here, in the mythic heart of Greece, that the idea of time first took form in the imagination of humankind.

This mythological connection speaks directly to what we do. Every watch is a vessel for time, a dance between motion and stillness. By invoking Othrys, we honor Chronos and his home—a place where time itself once lived.

Othrys Watches is inspired by the classical age of Greek and Roman innovation—a time when ingenuity flourished not because of abundance, but because of vision. To create precise, enduring instruments with the tools of their era required not only skill, but reverence for detail. We strive to embody that same spirit: to push the limits of possibility within the constraints of the mechanical, just as they once did.

Othrys is where myth meets maker. Where history inspires craft. Where time finds its form.

Philosophy

Guided by Tradition, Driven by Growth

For me, watchmaking is more than just a craft—it’s a connection to history, tradition, and the artistry of time itself. My journey in this field is fueled by a deep respect for the precision and care that define mechanical watches. Every piece I work on is an opportunity to grow as a watchmaker and honor the incredible legacy of this timeless craft.

I believe that watches are far more than functional tools or luxury items; they are vessels of stories and memories. Each timepiece carries with it the ingenuity of its makers and the significance of the moments it has marked. To preserve these treasures for future generations, I approach every project with patience, precision, and an unwavering dedication to quality.

Restoring a watch isn’t just about making it work again—it’s about restoring its soul. From the tiniest gear to the most delicate spring, I treat every movement with the care it deserves. I never rush the process because I know that quality takes time, and preserving a watch’s legacy is a responsibility that requires respect and attention to detail.

As I work on more and more time pieces, I remain committed to upholding the principles that make watchmaking so special: respect for tradition, love for precision, and the belief that the art of watchmaking is worth preserving for generations to come.