The Bite Magazine - Autumn/Winter 2024 - Issue 36

BAJER Mia Zhang discovers Bajer Watches, which pay homage to Kurdish culture. bitewatches L uxury watch brand Bajer celebrates the Kurd- ish culture and the strength and resilience of Kurdish women. Founded by Leyla Uysal, she desired to honour the heritage of her people while empowering women who have overcome adver- sity like her. Each watch is a piece of art, meticulously crafted in Switzerland, blending the rich cultural motifs of Kurdish tradition with the precision and sophistica- tion of European design. The Bajer name is a profound symbol derived from the Kurdish word for ‘city’. In addition to being a physical location, it represents a state of mind where freedom, safety, and empowerment converge for the Kurdish community. This ethos is woven into every aspect of the brand, from the design of the watches to the materials used in their creation. Leyla’s inspiration comes from the artistic language his- torically used by Kurdish women. In the face of oppres- sion, these women communicated their emotions and stories through intricate rug weaving, a tradition that the brand honours in its timepieces. Its three signature motifs — The Clarity, The Resistance, and The Protection — directly nod to these woven tales. Each watch design element represents a narrative of resilience, resistance, and the joy of growth. Artemita, Basenia, Corduene, and Sophene time in- struments in diverse colours embody cultural heritage and stories of empowerment. The collection features glossed dials, stainless steel finishes, and traditional Roman numerals, all designed with sophisticated min- imalism. This combination of timeless style and modern twists creates pieces as elegant as they are meaningful, WATCHES