A Closer Look at De Rijke & Co.'s New Capri Watch: An Atelier Visit

The Capri: Elegance Forged with Innovation

The Creative Sanctuary: De Rijke & Co.'s Dordrecht Atelier

Laurens de Rijke's workshop in Dordrecht is a testament to his passion for watchmaking. Adorned with vintage Vespa components and classic car art, the space buzzes with activity, housing various machinery, workbenches, and watch prototypes. Our visit began with a warm welcome and a cappuccino, brewed from a machine personally restored by Laurens, setting the tone for an insightful exploration of his creative haven.

From Concept to Casing: The Capri's Design Evolution

Driven by a desire to craft a non-circular, more formal timepiece, Laurens embarked on the journey of creating the Capri. The initial stages involved 3D printing numerous designs, experimenting with shapes, and refining the aesthetics. The pivotal moment arrived with the realization of curved sides and an integrated sapphire crystal, transforming the early square-cased prototypes into the elegant, finalized Capri design.

Unveiling the De Rijke & Co. Capri

The De Rijke & Co. Capri boasts a refined stainless steel case, measuring 28.5mm in width, 38mm in length, and a mere 6.5mm in thickness. Its proportions are thoughtfully designed, akin to a large Cartier Tank, yet it exudes a distinct character. The brushed case seamlessly integrates with the 24mm calfskin strap, creating an illusion of the case vanishing beneath the dial. This design ingenuity extends to the absence of visible screws, which are cleverly concealed behind the strap, contributing to the watch's sleek and uncluttered appearance.

Dial Variations and Distinctive Features of the Capri

The Capri's dial is protected by a gracefully curved sapphire crystal. Enthusiasts can choose from three captivating variations: a deep black onyx, a shimmering black aventurine glass, or a vibrant Capri Blue dial. The all-black onyx dial stands out as a personal favorite, offering a minimalist aesthetic. While the Capri Blue variant includes a sub-seconds register, the other two maintain a streamlined, time-only display. All versions feature skeletonized hour and minute hands, meticulously rounded to complement the case's contours. The dial proudly displays the De Rijke & Co. logo below 12 o'clock and a subtle "dutch crafted" inscription at 6 o'clock.

The Mechanical Heart: La Joux-Perret Movement and Future Aspirations

Powering the Capri is the hand-wound La Joux-Perret D100 caliber, operating at 21,600 vibrations per hour with an 18-jewel mechanism and a 50-hour power reserve. Its slim profile contributes to the watch's overall thinness. However, Laurens envisions a future enhancement: a custom rectangular version of the classic Peseux 7001 movement, better suited to the Capri's case shape. This ongoing development highlights his commitment to horological precision and aesthetic harmony.

A Hands-On Philosophy: Crafting Perfection Through Collaboration

Laurens de Rijke embodies a hands-on philosophy, personally overseeing every stage of his watch creations. While he initiates and drives the design process, he strategically collaborates with external partners, particularly in Switzerland, for their specialized watchmaking expertise. He also acknowledges Japan's excellence in precision engineering, reflecting a global approach to sourcing the best craftsmanship for his timepieces.

The Soul of the Maker: An Original Watch by an Original Visionary

Meeting Laurens at his atelier offers a glimpse into the authentic spirit of De Rijke & Co. The workshop, with its distinctive "garage" ambiance, is a hub where every detail, from initial sketches to after-sales service, is imbued with Laurens's personal touch. The Capri, though a rectangular watch, distinguishes itself with a design that defies convention, showcasing Laurens's unique vision in a crowded market.

Wearability and Unique Aesthetic of the Capri

The Capri's relatively broad 24mm strap ensures a confident presence on the wrist, offering a comfortable fit that sets it apart from more diminutive timepieces. While the default leather strap is elegant, the design's inherent versatility allows for potential experimentation with other materials, such as textile straps, to achieve a sportier look. The innovative lug construction further enhances the watch's distinctive appeal, making it a truly original accessory.