Imprints
Alpinist in the Rough
The world of fine jewellery often carries an air of formality that can obscure a far more compelling truth: the rich, varied lives of the human beings behind the craft. These artisans lead multifaceted lives, driven by passions that both challenge and inspire their work in surprising, often unexpected ways. Among them is Stefano Wittmer, Master Goldsmith by weekday, extreme alpinist by weekend.
Landscapes by Stefano Wittmer.
6 Minutes
Portrait by Ivo Müller
Stefano joined Bucherer one year ago, embarking on the most recent chapter in a 27-year-long career. After completing his studies and an apprenticeship in Horgen, the Swiss native travelled to Australia for six months to learn English. Six months turned into 25 years, during which Stefano threw himself into his craft, running his own jewellery business before making the short-lived decision to retire and return to Switzerland at the age of 45.
During this brief hiatus from the jewellery world, Stefano found purpose in nature, climbing mountains and riding bikes, before having a change of heart. “I realised that I was too young to just not do anything”, he explains. When he returned to the industry, he did so with a singular goal. “My only focus was to get into Bucherer Fine Jewellery,” he says proudly. Bucherer, already familiar with his work, was happy to welcome him.
As a person, Stefano might well embody the adage don’t judge a book by its cover, and in this case, the cover is heavily tattooed. While he may not resemble the typical image of a fine jewellery goldsmith, it’s his life outside of work that truly defies expectations. “I’d probably call myself an alpinist. I climb and cross mountains on mixed terrain—peaks that drop a thousand metres on either side—and much of it unsecured. I also climb ice waterfalls,” he says almost casually.
Few pursuits seem more opposite than alpinism and goldsmithing, at least in terms of scale, but for Stefano, the connection lies in preparation. “The way we map out a project from start to finish, down to the last detail—it’s the same approach we use when planning a new adventure as we like to call them,” he explains. While the physical risks of goldsmithing pale in comparison, both disciplines demand total concentration. “You have to be really present. When you’re cutting metal down to a tenth of a millimetre by hand, you need to be very focused and tune everything else out. It’s the same when you’re climbing a mountain or an ice waterfall,” he says.
As for what the piece is, or whether it involves diamonds, that’s beside the point. “Every job, big or small, no matter the price or the stones invovled, gets the same level of attention. That’s something I try to teach our apprentices,” he says. “This unwavering commitment to detail is part of the Bucherer Fine Jewellery philosophy.”
