In the foothills of Franschhoek’s wine country, two distinct worlds of craftsmanship met in rare harmony as IWC Schaffhausen and Okapi hosted an intimate showcase dedicated to precision, provenance and the quiet luxury of objects made by hand. Held at the scenic Anthonij Rupert Wine Farm, the gathering brought together collectors, tastemakers and artisans to witness a collaboration that felt both unexpected and entirely natural. It positioned Swiss horological engineering in conversation with South African leather artistry.
For this one of a kind presentation, every IWC timepiece on display appeared with an Okapi strap created exclusively for the occasion. The straps were crafted from ethically sourced ostrich and blesbok leather, and each one was meticulously finished by Okapi artisans whose work is deeply rooted in sustainability and African luxury heritage. The result was a pairing that elevated each watch into a story of dual mastery. One part precision mechanics, one part material intelligence.
Displayed alongside Okapi handbags and accessories, the timepieces formed a curated journey into technique and texture. It was luxury presented with calm confidence, anchored in authenticity and intention rather than spectacle.
Following the showcase, guests were welcomed to a private sit down lunch overlooking the vineyards and surrounding mountain ridges. The afternoon embraced the spirit of slow luxury, with long table conversations and an atmosphere that echoed the values both houses share. A respect for detail, a reverence for craftsmanship and a belief that luxury should feel meaningful rather than performative.
Este Rosenberg, IWC Schaffhausen’s South Africa country manager, emphasised the significance of the partnership and the immersive experience created alongside Okapi’s newly appointed creative director Tiaan Nagel.
Okapi’s philosophy of ethical sourcing and responsible luxury has established the brand as a leading voice within Africa’s modern design movement. Its collaboration with IWC, a house synonymous with Swiss engineering excellence, highlighted a growing truth in the luxury world. Africa is not simply a source of inspiration. It is a contributor of original techniques, origin materials and contemporary luxury codes that resonate globally.
This gathering served as an exhibition while signalling the future of cross continental craftsmanship and the rising demand for luxury that is conscious, culturally rooted and made with intention.
IWC timepieces from the showcase are available at IWC Schaffhausen at Charles Greig in the V and A Waterfront, Cape Town. Okapi’s leather goods and accessories can be found at Merchants on Long.
