COSTAS KESSARIS
THE LORD OF THE RINGS

Words by Sophie Louka

 

Countless and distinct are the jewels of the KESSARIS House, and equally numerous and fascinating are the stories that their creator, the internationally renowned jeweller, Costas Kessaris, has to narrate. In this interview at Unique, the «Lord of the Rings» speaks about the jewelry and the romantic relationship he has with them, about his iconic store in the centre of Athens, and the advice he never forgot and passes on to his children and grandchildren. As he proudly says for his children’s achievements, the field of watchmaking and the House’s future, the baton is now in the hands of Vassilis Kessaris and Anastasia Kessaris, who share his boundless dreams. And yes, they are preparing something extraordinary that will impress everyone once again.

I sense that your relationship with jewelry is romantic. So, tell us, how did everything start and how do you keep it alive?
Yes, it is romantic and sensual… That’s how my grandfather taught me, and that’s how I keep it alive, to pass it on to my children and grandchildren. Creating a piece of jewelry requires not only knowledge, but also a lot of emotion.

 

Could you tell us where you get your design inspiration from?
The world of jewelry-making has always been and continues to be a source of inspiration for me. I study it, receive messages, ideas, and knowledge, and then based on my personal taste and passion I create jewelry that represent the KESSARIS House. Of course, I also pay attention to the trends and needs of the current times.

 

Throughout your journey, your work has gone hand in hand with your family. Tell us about this harmonious collaboration.
Yes, we are all one big family. I am not only referring to my spouse and my children, who have effortlessly embraced the passion for jewelry and watches, but also to our people who do their best for the success of the House every single day. Therefore, I believe that our success derives from the love we all have for jewelry, the hard work, and even the tensions that families may often have.

Your store at the intersection of Panepistimiou and Voukourestiou is an architectural masterpiece, in an iconic location in the center. How important do you consider its location, and what could you tell us about its history?
In 1982, KESSARIS moved to one of the most central and historic spots in Athens, where our flagship store remains to this day. As soon as I leased the building, it was deemed a «preservable café» since it has been the most historic café in Greece, frequented by all the significant figures of the time. For this reason, we have kept the bar exactly as it was. It should be noted that I love all my stores, just like my children and grandchildren.

 

If you were to go back in time, what would you say to your younger self and what is the best advice you’ve ever received?
The advice I always cherish and have given to my children and grandchildren is the following: High quality is paramount and never deceive the customer.

 

Could you reveal us the celebrity that has impressed you the most? Please, if it’s possible, name one man and one woman from Greece and abroad.
Archbishop Christodoulos, Mikis Theodorakis, Maria Callas, and Monica Bellucci are some of the most fascinating encounters I’ve ever had.

 

 

Could you tell us what is the criterion for selecting a watchmaking company from the many you have in your stores.

For anything related to watchmaking, the expert Vassilis Kessaris, will be the best to answer and share all the information with you.

 

Are you currently planning something new?

The new generation, Anastasia Kessaris and Vassilis Kessaris, should be asked. They are definitely preparing something new…