Story Highlight
– Weir & Sons named Multi-Generational Watch Retailer of the Year.
– New Omega boutique opening in early 2027.
– Nomadic Watches store set to open in November.
– Focus on enhancing customer experience and staff expertise.
– Plans for UK market expansion with R.L. Austen acquisition.
Full Story
Weir & Sons, a renowned watch retailer based in Dublin, is poised for significant growth as it embarks on an ambitious expansion plan. Located just off Grafton Street, the store offers a warm welcome with its open doors and friendly staff ready to assist local and visiting customers alike. The company, now led by Managing Director Chris Andrews—who is the fifth generation of his family at the helm—exemplifies the enduring spirit of its heritage while looking to the future.
Founded in 1869, Weir & Sons was recognised as the Multi-Generational Watch Retailer of the Year at the 2025 WatchPro UK Awards. Rather than resting on its laurels, the firm is capitalising on its success during a bustling period that includes an upcoming three-floor Omega boutique set to launch in early 2027 and a new Nomadic Watches store opening in November at Castle Market Street.
The flagship Grafton Street store is currently engaged in a comprehensive refurbishment and expansion, which includes constructing a striking brass staircase behind temporary walls. Weir & Sons has seen its footprint expand from two locations to six in just five years, with plans for two additional outlets by the first quarter of 2027.
Andrews expresses particular excitement about the forthcoming openings. “I’m really excited about our Nomadic store that we’re opening on Castle Market, and the Omega boutique opening will be great as well,” he stated. “I think that’s going to work very well – a great addition to the Dublin watch offering.”
The Omega boutique is anticipated to be the larger project, currently in its final design phases. The new space will provide a tailored shopping experience dedicated solely to the Omega brand, catering to discerning customers eager for a specialised retail environment.
Conversely, the Nomadic store at 6 Castle Market will be a first for the Belfast independent watchmaker in Dublin and serves as its second location in Ireland, following the debut of its Belfast flagship and workshop in July 2025. Scheduled to open in mid-November, this boutique marks a collaborative effort that blossomed naturally as Weir & Sons started showcasing Nomadic’s timepieces last year, which proved popular among customers. Andrews noted, “We had a chat about it. It felt like a natural fit for us to work together, creating the perfect synergy between both brands.”
The partnership also allows Weir & Sons to promote an Irish watchmaking enterprise, enriching its offering with a brand that boasts a distinctive local identity. Andrews remarked, “It’s really exciting that there’s an Irish brand being made in Belfast. I think there’s definitely a niche in the market for it. There are people out there who want an Irish watch, and the watches tell stories as well as time.”
While the young Nomadic brand faces stiff competition in the international market, its local roots create a compelling proposition for Weir & Sons’ clientele, who appreciate the chance to discover homegrown talent alongside established watchmakers. This initiative is indicative of the retailer’s readiness to diversify its operations while maintaining high standards of brand selection.
Weir & Sons’ sights are not solely set on the Irish market. The recent acquisition of R.L. Austen has revived its presence in the UK after an absence of several decades. Andrews reflects on the similarities in retail practices across both regions, noting, “There are a few little differences, such as local tastes and styles, but the majority is very similar.”
The UK, with its tenfold population compared to Ireland, represents a vast opportunity for expansion. “The UK market is obviously of interest to us,” Andrews shared. “If you want to grow your business, it’s a much bigger market. It’s logical.”
For the moment, the focus is on enhancing R.L. Austen’s current offerings rather than aggressively pursuing new growth. Plans are underway to introduce additional watch and jewellery brands to increase foot traffic and appeal, with an expected completion date in early 2027. Andrews clarified that while further acquisitions might be on the table, they must align with the group’s overall strategy. “There need to be good synergies,” he noted.
As the company progresses, a primary concern is ensuring its infrastructure and staff development match the pace of growth. Andrews emphasises the importance of recruiting the right people who align with the company’s vision. “Finding the right people is always important,” he affirmed. “There’s great talent out there, and our HR team is very good at identifying people who will be real assets to the business.”
The growing customer base includes a new generation of well-informed buyers eager for knowledge about timepieces that go beyond mere transactions. “We’re seeing a new generation of younger, well-informed customers and collectors entering the market,” Andrews said. “It shows the continued appeal of fine watchmaking and suggests there is a strong foundation for sustained growth in the years ahead.”
As customers increasingly arrive armed with extensive knowledge from various sources, the role of retail staff has shifted accordingly. There is a heightened emphasis on providing insightful discussions and deeper engagement with customers rather than simply delivering basic product information. “You’re right that we need to continue to upskill our team so they’re trained and knowledgeable about the products and can have deeper conversations with customers,” Andrews explained.
This environment fosters meaningful relationships between retailers and collectors, who enjoy visiting even without a purchase intent. “Some customers come in just for a chat,” he noted, underscoring the community aspect of the business.
Weir & Sons balances its rich heritage with ongoing innovation, with Andrews affirming the need to retain personal connections with customers. “We need to make sure we never lose the personal touch,” he stated. At the same time, he acknowledged that adaptation is crucial for relevance in an ever-evolving marketplace. “To remain relevant, I think we need to keep evolving,” he emphasised.
Looking ahead to 2027, Andrews believes the business’s future success lies in refining existing practices rather than revolutionary changes. “We’re always looking to figure out how to do things better,” he concluded.
Weir & Sons is thus preparing to chart its next chapter on a foundation of established trust and expertise, driven by a vision aimed at continuing to evolve alongside its loyal customer base.
