The Hvelplund story begins in 1971, when Erik Hvelplund founded his first store at the Hotel Sheraton – today the Scandic hotel – opposite the Lakes in inner Copenhagen.

Erik trained as a watchmaker in Randers and completed his education with several awards, including Watchmaker of the Year in 1959. His skills brought him to the renowned Beyer in Zurich and then to the well-known watch and jewelry house Garretts in London, where Erik was responsible for the repair and renovation of watches belonging to the English royal family.

It was during his time at Garretts that Erik met Alan Banbery – an acquaintance who would become of great importance to Hvelplund's stores today. The same Banbery was hired as sales director at Patek Philippe, and it was through him that Erik came into contact with the Stern family, who own Patek Philippe.

Henry Stern was married to a Danish man and therefore visited Erik's shop when he was in Denmark, and was thus able to see with his own eyes what Banbery was referring to when he spoke of his Danish friend Erik. Banbery's reference and the personal visits meant that Erik Hvelplund was able to write authorized Patek Philippe dealer on his business card in 1975.

The next generation – Erik's son Paul Hvelplund, is a graduate of Cand. Merc. in business administration and management and a gemologist trained in Germany in both diamonds and colored stones. Therefore, competent forces are behind the helm of Hvelplund's store in Østergade.