Observator celebrates 100th anniversary
Ridderkerk, the Netherlands, 12 December 2024 – Observator Group is pleased to announce its 100th anniversary. A significant milestone, marking 100 years of leadership, innovation and excellence. From humble beginnings in 1924, Observator has evolved into a global leader known for its groundbreaking solutions.
Today, exactly 100 years ago, ‘De Nieuwe Rotterdamsche Instrumentenfabriek Observator N.V.’ was founded. At that time, the focus was on pressure gauges and thermometers for the shipping industry. Now, a century later, Observator Group has grown into a medium-sized, globally operating company, active in various market segments.
Rich history
In the early years of Observator, the company focused on manometers and thermometers for the shipping industry. Over the years, the range was increasingly expanded with other types of products for the maritime industry.
After the Second World War, in the 1950s, Observator started supplying optical components for nautical equipment. The company had the wind in its sails again and in the 1960s managed to acquire a representative role in climate technology, thanks to the development of airflow instruments.
In the 1970s and 1980s, a new division for meteorological and hydrological measuring equipment was created. Under the name ‘Obsermet’, a product line was developed consisting of anemometers, rain gauges, data loggers, displays, water level meters, etc.
Dynamics of the present
Nowadays, Observator has a worldwide distribution network and offices in Australia, Germany, the Netherlands, Poland, Singapore, and the United Kingdom. Observator Group consists of three different business units, each with its specialism. For example, Observator Instruments develops and supplies measurement solutions for meteorology, hydrology, air quality, and climate technology. As a windscreen wiper and sun blind supplier, Observator Vision competes with the four seasons and the associated interplay of dark and light, wet and dry. Finally, Observator Precisietechniek specialises in mechanical precision techniques.
Promising future
According to CEO Robert de Vries, who joined Observator in 2005, dedication and innovation are the company's credo. “Observator has been a leader in the maritime sector since its foundation. From day one, the company has been committed to meeting the ever-changing needs of its customers. By pushing boundaries and developing new, innovative products, we have been able to distinguish ourselves for 100 years. Our reputation is based on technological expertise, innovation and dedication, while maintaining the highest standards of quality and service. Today, the company is still a pioneer, shaping the future with a focus on sustainability. For this reason, the product range has been expanded with air quality sensors earlier this year.”
A token of appreciation
“Without our founding fathers, employees and relations, both domestically and internationally, Observator would not have been able to reach this milestone,” concludes Robert de Vries. “I appreciate everyone’s trust and look forward to continuing our collaboration in the future.”