The Journal
Royal Adventures In Copenhagen: Count Nikolai Talks About Time and His Favorite Spots
Shipping and delivery conditions
JOIN COUNT NIKOLAI FOR A DAY IN COPENHAGEN AS HE TAKES US TO SOME OF HIS FAVORITE SPOTS IN THE CITY HE CALLS HOME
Count Nikolai of Monpezat, a member of the Danish royal family, is making waves in the fashion and luxury watch industries. Born on August 28, 1999, he is blending his royal lineage with a burgeoning modelling career. Since debuting on the runway at London Fashion Week in 2018, he’s been a sought-after figure in the fashion world. Count Nikolai is now taking on a new role as brand ambassador for IWC Schaffhausen.
His partnership with IWC not only reflects his personal style, but also his appreciation for the brand’s commitment to innovation and excellence. With his unique perspective as a young royal and experience in the fashion realm, Nikolai embodies the spirit of modern luxury.
In this interview, the 25-year-old talks about being a brand ambassador, his passion for watches, and how he balances royal duties with a fashion career.
— Count Nikolai of Monpezat, a member of the Danish royal family, wearing the Portugieser Chronograph IW371614 with a blue dial and 18 ct 5N gold case
— Nestled in the heart of Copenhagen at Ny Østergade 3, the IWC Boutique is IWC’s first Nordic boutique
HONORING HISTORY AND HERITAGE
Why are IWC watches the perfect fit for you?
IWC watches resonate with me for several reasons. Firstly, their engineering and reputation for timekeeping innovation really stand out. It’s a brand with a rich history and a heritage of creating beautiful watches, and it’s full of tradition. Lastly, the functionality of the watches is impressive. They feature technical capabilities that allow me to track time with great precision.
Why did you choose to wear the Portugieser Chronograph with a blue dial and 18 ct 5N gold case?
I tried on several watches at the boutique in Copenhagen and immediately fell in love with this one. The colour is beautiful, and it has an expression that sets it apart from anything I’ve seen before.
What did you think of the new IWC Boutique in Copenhagen?
It was a great experience and wonderful to explore a dedicated monobrand boutique rather than visiting a multi-brand retailer to see the IWC watches. The boutique itself is beautifully designed, with an elegant, modern atmosphere that perfectly embodies IWC’s blend of luxury and precision. The staff provided a highly personalised level of service, displaying a deep knowledge of the brand’s history and philosophy. It was also a lovely touch to be able to relax with a cup of coffee while taking in the collection.
— Count Nikolai of Monpezat in front of the IWC Boutique Copenhagen
The boutique’s cozy lounge, featuring a fireplace, creates a warm, inviting space for visitors to unwind while enjoying the timeless ambiance of IWC.
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The boutique’s design draws from classic Danish brands like Handvärk and Gubi, showcasing minimalistic elegance and a focus on quality that reflects IWC’s lasting heritage.
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The 110-square-meter boutique invites guests to explore and learn more about IWC’s various core collections.
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Visitors can enjoy beverages and snacks at the boutique’s sleek bar, surrounded by the iconic IWC timepieces and a space inspired by the Colors of TOP GUN.
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— Count Nikolai wearing the Portugieser Chronograph IW371614 at Christianshavn
FAMILY, FRIENDS, AND SPORTS
Tell me about some recent achievements that made you reflect on your journey!
I’ve reached two major milestones in the past few months: I graduated with a Master’s in business economics from Copenhagen Business School and I turned 25. I take time to reflect on my achievements; it’s nice to look back and appreciate how far I’ve come. These milestones are definitely moments worth celebrating.
How do you like to spend your time?
My favourite way to spend time is with friends and family, just having fun. I also really enjoy sports. I’m very competitive, so I take great pleasure in being active.
Are you more aware of time in your professional and personal life now?
I’m not sure if I’m more conscious of time than my peers, but I do place a high value on it. I believe time is one of the most precious resources we have. I’m very mindful of how I spend my time, and I also always try to be on time.
Copenhagen is surrounded by water, and the canals are one of the most beautiful ways to get around. Water is deeply embedded in Copenhagen’s DNA
— Christianshavn’s charming canals, lined with boats, offer a picturesque view of Copenhagen’s historic buildings
COPENHAGEN GO-TO SPOTS
We photographed you by the canals of Copenhagen and at the Hercules Pavilion. What do these places mean to you?
The King’s Garden is very precious to me. I live nearby, so it’s a place I often visit to unwind. I enjoy being in nature, and it’s wonderful to take a stroll in the garden, which is in the heart of Copenhagen. The canals are another wonderful part of the city. Copenhagen is surrounded by water, and the canals are one of the most beautiful ways to get around. Water is deeply embedded in Copenhagen’s DNA.
What are your top three favorite spots to spend time in Copenhagen?
I enjoy strolling around Kastellet, an old fort and barracks. Tivoli is a lovely place too. It’s fun for all ages and perfectly situated in the heart of Copenhagen. La Banchina is a small oasis full of life during the summer. I often go there with friends to hang out by the water and swim.
Are there any other destinations outside of Copenhagen that you particularly love?
I recently spent a semester abroad in Sydney and fell in love with its active outdoor lifestyle. I genuinely enjoyed my time in Australia; it was an amazing experience to be so far from home and explore such an exotic place. I love travelling, so it’s always exciting to visit distant locations, learn about new cultures, meet new people, and speak a different language.
What are your plans now that you’ve graduated?
My plans are to figure out what I want to pursue in the near future. I love travelling, so I’ll likely continue exploring new places. I’m not sure yet if I’ll settle in Denmark or abroad, but travelling and possibly finding a job somewhere else are definitely on the agenda.
Thank you, Count Nikolai!
— Classy, chic, or casual, Count Nikolai pulls off any style
