Preserving a Time-Honored Tradition: The Story of Aydın Aydınoğlu
Aydın Aydınoğlu, a third-generation watch repair craftsman in Istanbul, continues his family's 110-year-old tradition, originally brought from Pristina, Kosovo, to the Samatya neighborhood in 1963.
Family Heritage and Migration Journey
Aydınoğlu shared insights into his family's migration from Kosovo to Turkey, highlighting the challenges faced by Muslims in Kosovo and their strong sense of Turkish identity.
Embracing a New Homeland
Despite decent living conditions in Kosovo, Aydınoğlu's family chose to make Turkey their new home, where they have been practicing the art of watchmaking for over a century.
Preserving Cultural Identity
Aydınoğlu emphasized the importance of preserving their Turkish heritage, even as they adapted to life among diverse ethnic groups in Istanbul.
Challenges and Perceptions
Initially perceived as outsiders due to their craft being traditionally practiced by non-Muslims, Aydınoğlu's family worked hard to establish themselves in their new community.
Multicultural Coexistence
Aydınoğlu reflected on the harmonious coexistence with Greeks and Armenians in Istanbul and the mutual trust that characterized interactions among different communities.
Legacy and Modernization
While acknowledging the impact of digitalization on traditional watchmaking, Aydınoğlu remains hopeful that there will always be a demand for skilled artisans who can repair and maintain quality timepieces.
Looking Towards the Future
Despite the challenges posed by modern technology, Aydınoğlu believes that there will always be a niche market for those who appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship of traditional watchmaking.
As the world continues to embrace digital innovations, craftsmen like Aydın Aydınoğlu serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and traditional skills for future generations.
