Our heritage

The story behind Uwe Koetter

The journey of Uwe Koetter started from humble beginnings back in 1968. Soon after founding the business, Uwe and Magda Koetter gained a reputation for cutting-edge design, master craftsmanship and a finely-trained eye for detail.

To this day Uwe Koetter is regarded as a highly-skilled purveyor of magnificent gold and diamond jewellery, and this has resulted in the company receiving a host of prestigious awards.

These awards speak volumes and place Uwe Koetter as a world leader in innovative jewellery design. The company’s clients range from royalty, heads of state and celebrities to loyal local and international clients. The overall ethos of quality, service and design is simple: excellence.

Consistent with our history in this location, we employ only the finest craftsmen and materials in creating and finishing our range of beautiful jewellery. We pride ourselves in providing jewellery for all occasions, from the most extravagant event to the everyday.

At the tender age of 20, Mr Koetter completed his studies in Jewellery Design in his hometown of Hamburg, Germany. As the top student in his class, Mr Koetter was offered a job in Namibia, Southern Africa.

 

One year after having relocated to Windhoek, Mr Koetter decided to visit Cape Town for a holiday. Little did he know that he was going to fall in love with this city which very much resembled his hometown. On the very day that he arrived on the Peninsula, he was not only overwhelmed by the sheer beauty of the city but, as fate would have it, also found a job.

Mr Koetter walked into a jewellery store asking whether they had a vacancy for a goldsmith. A somewhat startled gentleman welcomed the impromptu behaviour and replied with the challenge: “If you can work, yes. Otherwise, no.”

As many would say, the rest is history.

Mr Koetter immediately relocated to Cape Town and proved himself in his new job. Throughout this time Mr Koetter collected much valuable insight into the industry, collected equipment along the way and, being the entrepreneur that he is, forged plans for his own business.

 

It was not much later in 1968 that Mr Koetter started his own company – a one-man show in Adderley Street, Cape Town.

Here, a safe was bought in order to keep gold. This safe, however, initially only safeguarded Mr Koetter’s sandwiches. Not much time passed before neighbouring tenants and their friends became Uwe Koetter clients and the sandwiches were replaced with gold, other precious metals and gemstones.

The business grew with time and it was not long before a larger premises was required. Its popularity took the business from Adderley Street, to St Georges Mall, to Amway House, and finally to the Cape Quarter Lifestyle Village.

Don’t just create something better,

create something unique.

On asking Mr Koetter whether he has ever said that something cannot be done, an emphatic and resounding “no!” was delivered.

It is the commitment to these principles that has allowed us to be part of the many special journeys of our diverse client base. 

 

In listening to what customers envisage and helping them develop incredible ideas, we have been part of their journeys and stories. More often than not, the testament to their bespoke piece starts with only an idea. A vision. And it is these creations which contribute to our rich heritage as a business. 

Don’t just create something better,

create something unique.

On asking Mr Koetter whether he has ever said that something cannot be done, an emphatic and resounding “no!” was delivered.

It is the commitment to these principles that has allowed us to be part of the many special journeys of our diverse client base. 

 

In listening to what customers envisage and helping them develop incredible ideas, we have been part of their journeys and stories. More often than not, the testament to their bespoke piece starts with only an idea. A vision. And it is these creations which contribute to our rich heritage as a business. 

Another chapter

For us, the story Mr Koetter started is not complete. The book is not closed.


 

Under the leadership of Mr Johan Louw, we continue to build on our heritage and write new stories every day.

 

As Mrs Koetter’s brother, he continues the legacy established so long ago. Mr Louw is South Africa’s most awarded jewellery designer, and has been entrusted to carry on the legacy and guide the heritage of the Uwe Koetter brand.

We could not be more excited to write the next chapter with him as our leader.

 

We are always excited to form part of another story. To realise a new vision. To make another dream a reality. Being part of our clients’ stories means that we are part of their heritage, thus making it a shared one. 

Our team

“At Uwe Koetter Jewellers we have an amazing team of skilled goldsmiths, gemstone setters, polishers, CAD designers and supporting staff to ensure that we provide only the best service to our clients.”

Our Jewellery Experts

JOHAN LOUW

Owner and award-winning jewellery designer

As the brother-in-law of the late Mr. Uwe Koetter, Johan has dedicated himself to preserving the legacy of Uwe Koetter. Renowned as South Africa’s most awarded jewellery designer, Johan brings unparalleled expertise across all aspects of jewellery design and manufacturing. His profound knowledge and commitment to excellence guarantee that our customers receive the finest creations from our establishment.

“I have never had a custom-made ring, but I can see why Johan has the reputation he does. Immaculate and always goes beyond what you need. From day one in the consultation, I knew my ring was going to be beautiful and (just as important) will last a lifetime.”

- Nittaya

SHANE MACKRILL

Expert Jewellery Advisor

Twenty years ago, Shane embarked on his journey with the esteemed Uwe Koetter team. He has accumulated profound expertise in every facet of the intricate, bespoke jewellery manufacturing process. His keen attention to detail ensures every customer is in safe hands.

“Shane, thank you so much for my beautiful ring. I am extremely happy with it. Thank you for assisting me with the design, really appreciate it. I will definitely contact you for my next piece.”

- Cecilia

SIMONETTE VAN OUDTSHOORN

Expert Jewellery Advisor

Simonette has been an integral part of our team since 2017 and with her jewellery experience demonstrates exceptional mastery in bespoke jewellery manufacturing. Her greatest joy is making sure every customer receives the best, personalized service and ensuring that their dreams come to life in a unique, custom piece.

“A big thank you for Simonette’s kind patience and support. She has been extremely kind and helpful, thoughtful and with a personal touch of trust. It has been a real pleasure dealing with her.”

- Michiel

Have a question?

Speak to one of our designers today and see how our heritage has built a culture in which we never ask whether it can be done, but rather engage in conversations asking how. 

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