Álvaro Jiménez: The Creative Force Behind Watchderful and OurWater
In this article, Álvaro JIMENEZ shares his journey as an entrepreneur, his insights into creating two distinct businesses—Watchderful and OurWater—and the lessons he’s learned along the way.
About the Companies
Watchderful
Watchderful, founded nearly four years ago, is a brand born from Álvaro’s passion for watches. The company specializes in creating custom, hand-painted timepieces that are not just luxurious, but also unique. Unlike competitors who mass-produce “limited edition” watches, Watchderful focuses on exclusivity, offering one-of-a-kind pieces that embody a strong motivational message for the wearer.
Logo of Watchderful.
OurWater
OurWater is a pioneering company in Europe that provides water for free, with a unique business model that relies on sponsorships and advertisements placed on the bottles. Inspired by a similar concept in the United States, Álvaro and his team have positioned OurWater as a brand that not only offers a necessary resource but also challenges the status quo in the beverage industry.
Logo of OurWater.
Álvaro’s Entrepreneurial Journey
Early Beginnings
Álvaro’s entrepreneurial spirit ignited at the age of 15 when he launched his first business, Emperor_Logos, on Instagram. This venture, which involved creating logos and editing videos, was the stepping stone to his later success. His passion for watches began when he purchased his first quality timepiece, a Hamilton Pan-Europ, which ultimately led to the founding of Watchderful.
Challenges and Overcoming Them
One of the significant challenges Álvaro faced was navigating the legal landscape in Spain, particularly the complexities of tax obligations. A specific incident with OurWater highlighted the financial risks of missing a payment, which spiraled into a substantial debt. However, Álvaro managed to overcome this setback, and the experience taught him the importance of keeping a close watch on finances and legal responsibilities.
Milestones and Success Stories
Watchderful’s “ONE OF TEN” Collection
The “ONE OF TEN” collection represents a major milestone for Watchderful. This exclusive line features watches adorned with precious stones and high-quality Swiss movements, each custom-designed to meet the desires of elite clients. Selling these watches at $5000 each, Álvaro has already secured buyers for several pieces, further solidifying Watchderful’s position in the luxury market.
Skills and Knowledge for Success
Álvaro attributes his success to a blend of patience, consistency, creativity, negotiation skills, and watchmaking expertise. He emphasizes that patience is key, as building a business takes time, and consistency in effort is crucial. Creativity sets his brand apart, while strong negotiation skills help him navigate the competitive landscape. His deep understanding of watchmaking also gives him a significant edge in a field that requires precision and attention to detail.
Future Vision and Impact
Álvaro envisions Watchderful becoming a legacy brand, similar to Rolex, but with a more profound message. He is determined to make Watchderful a name that endures for generations. For OurWater, Álvaro aims to disrupt the market further by challenging large corporations and ensuring that access to clean water becomes a universal right.
Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
Álvaro’s advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is simple: take action. He believes that hands-on experience is the best teacher. He encourages others to follow their passions, stay consistent, and never lose sight of their goals, no matter how challenging the journey may be.
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About the Author
The article was written in August 2024 by Álvaro JIMENEZ, the founder of Watchderful and OurWater.