Which of Wempe’s worldwide network of 34 showrooms — 26 in Germany, alone — to go for? Berlin is considered the flagship, but the opening early in 2022 of a mega boutique at the gateway of Cologne’s Am Hof 2 shopping district is a statement for its design, scale and location.

At almost 10,000 square feet over three floors of an historic building, it is among the largest watch and jewellery stores in Germany.

Rolex and Patek Philippe are the anchor brands, but there is also room for countrymen NOMOS Glashütte, A. Lange & Sohne, Glashütte Original and Junghans,

The exterior is majestic, with an almost golden building towering over the corner space.

Inside, the spaces are defined by the architecture, with muscular circular pillars punctuating broad open floors.

The showroom is a journey of discovery as the world’s finest watches and precious jewellery are revealed over floors connected by strikingly sculptured staircases.

Smaller consultation rooms are found throughout, and there is an inviting bar-cum-bridal suite for sparkling conversations.