As with many great brands, Linde Werdelin is really a collaboration. In this case between Creative Director Morten Linde and his colleague Jorn Werdelin. So now a few minutes with the “design side” of Linde Werdelin, Morten Linde.
Tempus Fugit – What was your first watch? Was it a gift? Is there a story behind it?
Morten Linde – I received a mechanical watch when I was 18 years old. It was a gift and I later gave it to my son.
TF – When you were a boy, what did you want to be when you “grew up”?
ML – I’ve always had a creative mind. At 17, I discovered The Royal Danish Academy of Fine Arts while I was in the process of applying for University and realised I wanted to be a designer.
TF – What are some of the things you did prior to entering the watch industry?
ML – Product design – some of which has been award winning, I also set up my own studio and worked on renewed Danish and international brands.
TF – While you are a well-known designer, you were not always involved in watch design – what got you started? What are some of the special challenges in designing a watch?
ML – Prior to the creation of Linde Werdelin I did indeed design other watches and I have always felt affection for this long lasting and valuable object. I started this company with Jorn, whom I’ve known since I was at school and we shared the same interests. Some of the particular challenges are given by the ability of combining different elements of a watch such as case, dial, movement, crown, bezel etc… and make the timepiece work forever.
TF – Your partner in this enterprise, Jorn Werdelin is known as both an entrepreneur and a free spirit – how does your working relationship work?
ML – It works great, as we are long-time friends with the same shared passion for watches.
TF – What is it that makes Linde Werdelin special?
ML – We have a strong DNA and our products have a strong personality – we are a free spirited company.
TF – What is a typical day in the life of Morten Linde?
ML – I spend most of the day in the office, working on design and overseeing the Image of the brand. I liaise all day with London (our marketing department). Ultimately but most importantly I take care of my family.
TF – I realize it might be difficult, but what is your favourite Linde Werdelin?
ML – I am always passionate about the watch I am working on right now.
TF – What are some of the challenges facing Linde Werdelin?
ML – To keep on doing as well as we are doing now.
TF – What are Linde Werdelin’s strongest markets?
ML – Are strongest markets right now are Asia and the US.
TF – How do you see Linde Werdelin developing in the coming years?
ML – Exploring and being innovative with more materials and movements.
TF – What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
ML – Spending time with my family, skiing and always working!
TF – If you weren’t involved with what you’re doing with Linde Werdelin, what do you think you might be doing?
ML – Nothing else.
TF – What advice do you have for the next Morten Linde out there?
ML – Be true to yourself, do whatever you think is right but know how to work with other people.