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Questions and Answers
Hello, how can we help you? Find your answer in these categories:
Are the materials also suitable for people with allergies?
Are the materials also suitable for people with allergies?
The metal components of our watches, Bandlets and sunglasses are made of 316L stainless steel, finished with a fine ion plating, and are virtually nickel-free.
Our products are therefore usually well tolerated by people with allergies. :)
For our jewelry collections, the 316L stainless steel is finished either with ion plating or with genuine 24k gold or platinum. You can find the exact material description in the product specifications. This means you generally do not need to worry about allergies here either, as the materials are virtually nickel-free.
All wooden elements that come into contact with the skin are sealed with a natural, water-based varnish. Since it contains no chemical additives, it is also designed to be skin-friendly.
Why does my model look different from the product photos?
Why does my model look different from the product photos?
What makes our products so special is the use of natural materials. Just like every tree and every stone, each of our models is unique in its grain, color and texture, so you receive a true one of a kind — your very own piece of nature. :)
We do our best to show product photos of different models under a variety of lighting conditions, giving you the most realistic impression possible of what your model may look like.
If the model you receive is not quite to your taste or the size does not fit, you are of course welcome to return it. You can find more information here. :)
Can you engrave my model?
Can you engrave my model?
Each of our pieces of jewelry is already a beautiful one of a kind because it is handcrafted from natural materials.
If you would still like to add a personal touch with an engraving, we recommend visiting a trained professional such as a watchmaker or jeweler. We do not currently offer this service. For engraving our watches and Bandlets, we recommend the clasp of the link bracelet.
For our jewelry, we recommend getting individual advice from a workshop you trust, as the designs vary widely. We are currently working on new jewelry collections that will offer even more room for personalization. Whether it is a watch, Bandlet or piece of jewelry, your piece of nature arrives in a wooden box that can also be personalized by a workshop you trust.
We advise against engraving our sunglasses, as this could affect their construction. Thanks to the natural textures of the materials, however, they are already truly one of a kind!
Please note that engraved models cannot be returned.
How does a quartz watch work?
How does a quartz watch work?
When you take your watch out of the box, the crown is usually secured with a small plastic spacer. This helps preserve the battery, especially in quartz movements, until the watch reaches you. To start the watch, remove the stopper, turn the crown to set the desired time, and then carefully press the crown into the case. Your personal piece of nature is now ready to wear.
You can find the exact battery life of your one of a kind in the instructions available directly on the product page. If you notice that your model starts running irregularly, this indicates that the battery is depleted and needs to be replaced. You can have the battery replaced by a jeweler or watchmaker near you. Alternatively, we will be happy to replace it at one of our local stores.
How does a solar watch work?
How does a solar watch work?
If you chose a one of a kind with a solar movement, getting it started works a little differently. These models contain a rechargeable battery that is charged by sunlight or other light energy.
To charge your piece, first remove the protective film from the glass and then place the model in direct sunlight for at least five hours. During months with little sunshine, the watch should instead be charged under a lamp (30 W incandescent bulb/6 W LED/375 lumens) for 60 hours, as the sunlight may be too weak to charge the battery. Simply place your watch about 8 inches from any lamp, such as a desk lamp.
To prevent damage, please do not expose your solar watch to excessive heat, such as intense midday sun. Once your one of a kind is charged, the battery will last for at least four months before it needs to be charged again. If the seconds hand begins moving in two-second increments, your piece of nature needs more light and should be recharged.
If your model has additional functions, such as a date display, dual-time display or chronograph, familiarize yourself with them as well so you can enjoy the full potential of your piece of nature.
How does an automatic watch work?
How does an automatic watch work?
If you chose a model with an automatic movement, getting it started works differently than with a quartz movement. A mechanical movement does not contain a battery, so you first need to give your one of a kind a little help to get it running.
Before winding, make sure that the crown is in its normal position, fully pressed into the case. To wind the watch, turn the crown clockwise 40 times. The mainspring will then be fully wound and your one of a kind will run for approximately 42 hours. Wearing your watch during this period extends the power reserve because the movement winds automatically with every motion.
Hybrid automatic watches work a little differently from classic automatic watches. They are not wound using the crown; instead, movement of the wrist recharges them. They should therefore be moved regularly to keep them running.
When the stored energy runs low, the seconds hand may begin moving in two-second increments and the watch may eventually stop. To recharge it, swing it approximately two to three times per second until it resumes moving in normal one-second increments.
The movement type of our hybrid automatic watches is always indicated on the dial. You can also find more information in the instructions on the product page and in your order and shipping confirmation.
If your model has additional functions, such as a date display or dual-time display, familiarize yourself with them as well so you can enjoy the full potential of your piece of nature.
How do I start my watch?
How do I start my watch?
To start your new watch, first remove all protective films. With a quartz movement, you can set the time directly by removing the white stopper and turning the small adjustment wheel — the crown — on the side of the case. Once you have set the correct time, gently press the crown into the case and the watch will begin running.
If you have an automatic watch or a solar watch, you will first need to wind or charge it.
What's included?
What's included?
Every HOLZKERN product comes in a high-quality solid-wood box where your piece of nature can be stored safely. The wooden box is lined with cork to protect your model during transport and to provide sustainable, secure storage. The cork insert in the boxes for our watches and Bandlets is printed on both sides with the same phrase. One side is in German: "So einzigartig wie du" and the other in English: "as unique as you". You can turn the cork over whenever you like.
For every model with a link bracelet, we also include matching extension links and a tool free of charge. This lets you adjust your personal piece of nature and start wearing it right away.
Are your models suitable for people with allergies?
Are your models suitable for people with allergies?
For the metal components of our products, we use only 316L stainless steel, which is generally virtually nickel-free and normally causes no problems for people with allergies. This type of stainless steel is therefore commonly described as nickel-free.
Many watch brands use this kind of stainless steel as well. If you have previously had an allergic reaction to other watches or jewelry, please check before purchasing whether you tolerate this specific type of metal. If you nevertheless notice an allergic reaction when trying on your one of a kind, we will of course find a solution. :)
What is included in the delivery?
What is included in the delivery?
Our jewelry is delivered in a small wooden box, secured on a piece of cork. This protects your model during transport and makes unboxing it a special experience. The wooden box with a magnetic metal closure not only looks great, but is also perfect for storing your one of a kind, including while traveling.
Because of their size, some models from our men's collections come in the same boxes you may already know from our Bandlets.
What are the measurements and lengths of the necklaces and bracelets?
What are the measurements and lengths of the necklaces and bracelets?
Our jewelry assortment follows standard industry lengths. You can find the exact measurements and lengths for each collection in the technical details on the respective product page.
Our extender lets you lengthen bracelets and necklaces from our women's jewelry collections by up to 8 cm. This allows you to wear necklaces at different lengths to suit the occasion or combine several necklaces in a layered look.
What materials is the jewelry made from?
What materials is the jewelry made from?
We use a certified plating for our products that we can guarantee will meet the demands of everyday life.
For our women's jewelry, we finish 316L stainless steel with genuine 24K gold, genuine rose gold or platinum for a particularly elegant look.
Our men's collections are made of 316L stainless steel. Ion plating applies high-quality metal layers, such as cobalt, to create the different colors. This is the same technique you may already know from our watches and Bandlets. It lets you combine all your models — watch, Bandlet or jewelry — for a look that is always harmonious.
A little tip: Here on our jewelry page, you can use the product filters to search specifically by material, color and style.
Why doesn't your Charms collection include every letter?
Why doesn't your Charms collection include every letter?
We currently offer a selected range of letters as charms in gold- and silver-colored stainless steel with white, shimmering mother-of-pearl. We plan to add more designs in the future so our customers have even more ways to combine them into an individual piece of nature. :)
Are your models suitable for people with allergies?
Are your models suitable for people with allergies?
For the metal components of our products, we use only 316L stainless steel, which is generally virtually nickel-free and normally causes no problems for people with allergies. This type of stainless steel is therefore commonly described as nickel-free.
Many watch brands use this kind of stainless steel as well. If you have previously had an allergic reaction to other watches or jewelry, please check before purchasing whether you tolerate this specific type of metal. If you nevertheless notice an allergic reaction when trying on your one of a kind, we will of course find a solution. :)
What are the lenses made from?
What are the lenses made from?
TAC lenses consist of several layers that provide optimal protection for your eyes while increasing comfort:
- an inner and outer protective layer safeguard your one of a kind against scratches and other damage
- a UV 400 protective layer shields against UV-B and UV-A rays
- a category 3 glare-protection layer indicates the tint level
Gray, brown and green lenses flatter every look and provide particularly strong glare protection thanks to their tint. The lenses in every one of our models are also polarized. Our lenses are classified as CAT3, meaning that their glare-protection rating on a scale from 0 to 4 makes them suitable for bright summer days, walks on the beach and time on the slopes.
In addition to these lens properties, we have also created models with eye-catching color gradients. You will even find mirrored sunglasses in our range, so you are perfectly equipped for sunny adventures.
What is included in the delivery?
What is included in the delivery?
Our HOLZKERN sunglasses come in a kraft-paper case lined with microfiber and include a microfiber cleaning cloth. For optimal protection, we recommend always storing and transporting your sunglasses in the case. This keeps your accessory protected from scratches and other damage and ensures it is always close at hand.
How do I clean my sunglasses?
How do I clean my sunglasses?
To enjoy your model for a long time, always keep it in the case in which it was delivered. Over time, use may leave fingerprints and dirt on the lenses. To protect the lens surface, we recommend a suitable eyeglass-cleaning product from an optician. For a quick clean on the go, gently wipe the lenses with our microfiber cleaning cloth.
For stubborn dirt or dust, dampen one corner of the cleaning cloth and use it to clean the lenses.
Please avoid fully immersing your one of a kind in water, as this can affect the wooden components of your model.
How do I find the right size and fit?
How do I find the right size and fit?
As always, we produce in small batches so we can offer a wide variety. For this collection, we deliberately created some designs as individual pieces, while other models are available in several colors.
All details and measurements are shown alongside the photos in the technical details. You will also find recommendations there to help you choose the ideal model to flatter your face shape.
Our acetate frames in a range of colors are true statement pieces. The material makes them especially stable and durable, so they can be reliable companions every day.
Our models with metal frames can be adjusted further using the nose pads for maximum comfort. Please have this done by a trained professional at an optician you trust.
Our models with wooden and metal frames are particularly versatile and the perfect combination for an extravagant look.
Whatever material you choose, every model is a one of a kind designed to flatter your face. :)
Are the sunglasses water-resistant?
Are the sunglasses water-resistant?
All of our sunglasses designs are splash-resistant.
Because every design contains wooden elements, prolonged contact with water should be avoided. Wood is a natural material and may change when exposed to large amounts of liquid.
To enjoy your sunglasses for a long time, we recommend taking them off before swimming — that way, they cannot get lost either! ;)
What sun protection do your sunglasses provide?
What sun protection do your sunglasses provide?
Our sunglasses are made with TAC lenses that provide excellent sun protection for many everyday activities. With UV 400 protection, the lenses shield against UV-A and UV-B rays, making them suitable for both the beach and the slopes.
The glare-protection category indicates the tint level in relation to the amount of incoming light. A rating of 0 means the most incoming light, while 4 means the least. The level of protection works in reverse: 0 offers the least protection and 4 the most. With a CAT3 rating, our sunglasses provide excellent protection even for sensitive eyes without being too dark.
What payment methods are available?
What payment methods are available?
You can place your order in our online store easily and securely using a variety of payment methods:
- Credit card
- PayPal
- Amazon Pay
- Apple Pay
- EPS bank transfer
- KlarnaKlarna - Pay in installmentsKlarna - Pay by invoiceKlarna - Instant bank transferKlarna - Direct debitKlarna - Credit card
Please note that the available payment methods may vary by country.
My discount code did not work. What should I do?
My discount code did not work. What should I do?
You may have received a discount code by email, mail or social media, or found it directly on our website. Our discount codes and promotions are subject to specific conditions and cannot be combined. They also cannot be applied to sale items.
You can redeem a discount code during checkout by entering it in the appropriate field and selecting 'Apply discount code'. It will then appear in the cart summary and be applied immediately. :)
If the discount code does not work, please check the following:
- Have you met the conditions, such as the minimum order value or minimum quantity?
- Is the model part of the regular assortment, rather than the outlet?
- Did you enter the code in the correct discount-code field and select 'apply'?
- Is the discount code from a trusted source and still valid?
- Can the discount code be used for the models you want? Accessories, for example, are often excluded.
- Did you distinguish correctly between every 0 and O, and are there any other typos?
If you can answer YES to all of these questions, the discount code should be valid.
If the problem persists, contact us directly using the service form. Please send us a screenshot of your cart, discount code and the error message, and let us know where you found the discount code. We will do our best to find a quick solution. :)
How can I pay with a gift certificate or gift card?
How can I pay with a gift certificate or gift card?
Enter the number code on your gift certificate, in the format XXXX-XXXX-XXXX, directly at checkout in the "Apply gift certificate" field. You can use it as an alternative payment method to complete your order.
Our gift certificates/gift cards can be redeemed only in our online store. The advantage is that you will find our largest selection of models there and can take all the time you need to browse. :)
If the gift certificate does not work, please check the following:
- Did you enter the sequence correctly and distinguish every 0 from O?
- Does your gift certificate still have a balance?
- Did you enter the gift certificate in the correct field?
If you can answer YES to these questions but it still does not work, contact our Customer Support team. Please send us a screenshot of the gift certificate and your cart, and tell us the name of the person who purchased the gift certificate.
If you do not use the full value of a gift certificate in one order, the remaining balance stays on the gift certificate and can be used for a future order. Our gift certificates do not expire and can be used for any product or service we offer. :)
If you would like to return or exchange an order paid for with a gift certificate, the amount will be credited back to the gift certificate and it will be reactivated for a future order.
Can I apply multiple discounts or gift certificates to one order?
Can I apply multiple discounts or gift certificates to one order?
You can apply one discount or promotion to each order, so you can choose which one you would like to use. :)
You can apply up to nine different gift certificates to one order. :)
You can also combine them — for example, five gift certificates worth €20 each and one discount code in a single order. :)
My watch has stopped. What should I do?
My watch has stopped. What should I do?
First, please check which model and which movement — automatic, solar or quartz — your watch has. You can find this information for every model on our website.
If you have a solar or automatic watch, please try restarting it. You can find detailed instructions on the website. If you have a quartz watch, the battery may simply be depleted and need replacing. A specialist store or jeweler you trust can replace it, or you can visit one of our stores.
If the problem persists, contact us through our service form and we will find a suitable solution for you.
My model has a new logo — what does that mean for me?
My model has a new logo — what does that mean for me?
HOLZKERN has evolved considerably over the past few years. It all began with wooden watches; today, we make use of the entire world of natural materials, and our product range has expanded enormously. To place even greater emphasis on the natural diversity that defines HOLZKERN and makes us unique as a brand, we created a new logo design.
Its finely detailed shape allows for different interpretations inspired by nature and the materials we use. Above all, the modern design represents one thing: uniqueness.
The logo on our products will be updated step by step. Your chosen one of a kind may therefore feature the HOLZKERN wordmark, the original Tree Rings logo or the new logo. What matters most is that your HOLZKERN model reaches you in the same exceptional quality as always and brings you joy for a long time.
Why does my model look different from the product photos?
Why does my model look different from the product photos?
What makes our products so special is the use of natural materials. Just like every tree and every stone, each of our models is unique in its grain, color and texture, so you receive a true one of a kind — your very own piece of nature. :)
We do our best to show product photos of different models under a variety of lighting conditions, giving you the most realistic impression possible of what your model may look like.
If the model you receive is not quite to your taste or the size does not fit, you are of course welcome to return it. You can find more information here. :)
Can you engrave my model?
Can you engrave my model?
Each of our pieces of jewelry is already a beautiful one of a kind because it is handcrafted from natural materials.
If you would still like to add a personal touch with an engraving, we recommend visiting a trained professional such as a watchmaker or jeweler. We do not currently offer this service. For engraving our watches and Bandlets, we recommend the clasp of the link bracelet.
For our jewelry, we recommend getting individual advice from a workshop you trust, as the designs vary widely. We are currently working on new jewelry collections that will offer even more room for personalization. Whether it is a watch, Bandlet or piece of jewelry, your piece of nature arrives in a wooden box that can also be personalized by a workshop you trust.
We advise against engraving our sunglasses, as this could affect their construction. Thanks to the natural textures of the materials, however, they are already truly one of a kind!
Please note that engraved models cannot be returned.
How much does shipping cost?
How much does shipping cost?
We ship our products worldwide, and shipping is free for you. :)
Our team works very quickly, so products that are in stock* usually arrive within just a few business days.
After placing your order, you will receive an order confirmation email and a shipping confirmation once it has been dispatched. You will also receive another email with a tracking number so you can follow your package online. To deliver your order to your home quickly and safely, we use different shipping providers depending on where you live. Shipping with DHL and Austrian Post is also carbon-neutral.
*For products that are not in stock, you will find the delivery window on the respective product page and in your order confirmation. If you would like to order several models with different delivery times, you can select a free partial shipment during checkout. Otherwise, to protect the environment, all products in your order will be shipped together once every one of a kind is in stock.
Can I have my order delivered to a DHL Packstation or P.O. box?
Can I have my order delivered to a DHL Packstation or P.O. box?
We are also happy to send orders within Germany to DHL Packstations.
When placing your order, please make sure to enter the following information as the shipping address:
- Name
- Company field: Postnumber
- Street field: Packstation number
- ZIP code + city
- Germany
Unfortunately, we cannot ship to APO, FPO or P.O. boxes.
Is express shipping available?
Is express shipping available?
You can find the estimated delivery time for every model before placing your order. Our shipping team works very quickly and processes your order within a few business days. We currently also offer express shipping to Austria, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Italy and Switzerland. You can select it instead of standard shipping, and your package will then arrive within one to two business days.
We will notify you as soon as your order is on its way. :)
Why is my model unavailable, and will it be restocked?
Why is my model unavailable, and will it be restocked?
Our main goal is to offer our customers the greatest possible variety. That is why every one of a kind is produced only in small batches and may occasionally sell out.
If a product page shows a later delivery date, you can preorder the model. If it simply says that the model is sold out, it is unlikely to be restocked. Depending on the payment method you select, the amount for a preorder may be charged immediately.
As soon as the model you ordered is back in stock, we will of course ship it to you right away. We want to keep your wait as short as possible and will email you a tracking link after dispatch so you can follow your model until it arrives.
What is the 24-hour display?
What is the 24-hour display?
You may have chosen a one of a kind with a 24-hour display. This helps you distinguish between morning and afternoon, or AM and PM. If the display does not match the time of day, pull out the crown as if you were setting the time. Then move the time forward exactly 12 hours and the display will be correct again. If your piece of nature also has a date display, you may then need to reset the date.
What is a chronograph?
What is a chronograph?
A chronograph is simply a stopwatch that lets you measure a specific period of time. Watches with this function have one button above the crown and one below it, which you use to start and stop the timer.
Use the upper button to start and pause the timer, and the lower button to reset it. If the hand is not resting exactly at zero, or you want to begin timing from another position, you can adjust the stopwatch seconds hand manually. Pull the crown out one or two positions until the regular time stops completely. You can then use the upper button to adjust the hand.
How do I set the date?
How do I set the date?
To set the date on your watch, pull the crown out one click. Then turn the crown counterclockwise to set the correct date.
Please do not set the date between 9:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m., as the date may otherwise fail to change correctly the next day.
Please also note that your model does not have a "perpetual calendar," so you will need to correct the date manually after a month with 28, 29 or 30 days.
What is dual time?
What is dual time?
The dual-time function lets you set a second time in addition to the regular time. This can be especially useful on business trips when you change time zones, but you can of course set any time you like. To set it, simply press the two buttons on the side of the case to adjust the display in 15-minute increments.
What is the Easy-Switch interchangeable bezel system?
What is the Easy-Switch interchangeable bezel system?
This system features a removable outer case ring. To secure the removable bezel, turn it clockwise like a screw while applying light pressure toward the case until the bezel locks into place.
It does not work like a bottle cap. Do not keep turning it until it cannot move any farther, as this would damage the thread and glass. There is, however, a position where it is tight enough not to come loose on its own. Simply identify the point of greatest resistance.
What are the benefits of a customer account?
What are the benefits of a customer account?
Creating a customer account gives you many advantages:
You can save multiple addresses and complete orders more quickly. You can also view all your orders and invoices at any time and create a list of your favorite models.
By registering, you automatically become a member of our HOLZKERN Premium Club and gain access to special offers. With every purchase, you collect premium points known as Tree Rings. You can redeem them for unique premium products, great discounts and exclusive services. You will also receive a little birthday surprise from us.
We look forward to welcoming you as a member!
PS: Don't worry — membership is 100% free. ;)
What is the Premium Club?
What is the Premium Club?
The HOLZKERN Premium Club is our way of thanking our customers: With every order, you can collect Tree Rings. You can then redeem them for unique premium products, great discounts and exclusive services.
We look forward to welcoming you as a member!
PS: Don't worry — membership is 100% free. ;)
How can I earn and redeem Tree Rings?
How can I earn and redeem Tree Rings?
You will receive 8.5 Tree Rings for every $1 spent once your order has been shipped.
You can redeem your collected Tree Rings directly through your customer account for the following specials:
- great discounts
- exclusive premium products
- exclusive services
What happens to my Tree Rings if I return or exchange my order?
What happens to my Tree Rings if I return or exchange my order?
If you return all or part of your order, the corresponding Tree Rings will be deducted afterward. If you make an exchange or place a new order, the Tree Rings will be credited to your account as usual once the order has shipped.
How can I pay with a gift certificate or gift card?
How can I pay with a gift certificate or gift card?
Enter the number code on your gift certificate, in the format XXXX-XXXX-XXXX, directly at checkout in the "Apply gift certificate" field. You can use it as an alternative payment method to complete your order.
Our gift certificates/gift cards can be redeemed only in our online store. The advantage is that you will find our largest selection of models there and can take all the time you need to browse. :)
If the gift certificate does not work, please check the following:
- Did you enter the sequence correctly and distinguish every 0 from O?
- Does your gift certificate still have a balance?
- Did you enter the gift certificate in the correct field?
If you can answer YES to these questions but it still does not work, contact our Customer Support team. Please send us a screenshot of the gift certificate and your cart, and tell us the name of the person who purchased the gift certificate.
If you do not use the full value of a gift certificate in one order, the remaining balance stays on the gift certificate and can be used for a future order. Our gift certificates do not expire and can be used for any product or service we offer. :)
If you would like to return or exchange an order paid for with a gift certificate, the amount will be credited back to the gift certificate and it will be reactivated for a future order.
How do I prepare my package for return?
How do I prepare my package for return?
To help us process your package as quickly as possible, please include a copy of the invoice and a note stating the reason for the return.
If you are exercising your right of withdrawal, please also include the withdrawal form.
To protect the models you return during transport, please send them back in their original packaging — depending on the product, this means the wooden box, kraft-paper case or additional shipping box.
Next, choose an appropriately sized package and fill any empty space with bubble wrap or paper so the model cannot move around inside.
This provides the best possible protection for your returned one of a kind and helps it arrive safely.
How long will it take to receive my refund?
How long will it take to receive my refund?
Once you receive an email confirming that your package has arrived and been processed, it may take up to 14 business days for the amount to be refunded to your original payment method. You will also receive an email confirming the credit.