Author: chrisstoner040575

Wylde Jewellers has launched a year-long campaign titled “Never Ending” to celebrate its 40th anniversary, reflecting on the rich generational connections fostered through jewellery. Founded in Bath by Nicholas Wylde in 1987, the independent retailer has expanded to Clifton, now employing skilled artisans to blend tradition with modern innovation. The campaign will explore the past, present, and future of jewellery design, featuring exclusive offerings like the patented Wylde Flower Diamond. Wylde emphasized the enduring nature of jewellery, noting its role as treasured family heirlooms, and expressed enthusiasm for the countless stories yet to be woven into their creations.

Beaverbrooks has expanded its director team from five to seven as it appointments Simon Smith as retail, people and culture director and announces the retirement of long-serving brand director Roger Fairhurst after 35 years. The adjustments aim to bolster the jeweller’s operational and digital strategies while the Adlestone family retains ownership. Managing director Anna Blackburn emphasised the expertise of the new directors as pivotal in advancing the company’s strategic vision.

The Duke of Gloucester visited the Sheffield Assay Office on September 4, 2026, to mark the 250th anniversary of hallmarking in the city, an essential part of its rich silversmithing heritage. The Duke engaged in demonstrations of both traditional and modern hallmarking techniques, including advanced X-ray technology for precious metal analysis. Celebrations emphasized the Assay Office’s dedication to blending historical craftsmanship with contemporary innovations, ensuring the ongoing relevance and preservation of Sheffield’s iconic Tudor Rose hallmark.

Nicky Wade has unveiled two exclusive jewellery collections inspired by historical pieces for the British Museum’s Bayeux Tapestry exhibition. Drawing from 11th-century designs, the limited edition items blend meticulous craftsmanship with traditional techniques, featuring silver and 24ct vermeil. Wade, who founded Gemmeus Historical Jewellery in 2007, reflects on her journey from antique fairs to this prestigious display, celebrating the fusion of history and art within her creations. These exquisite pieces are available solely at the exhibition, marking a significant milestone in Wade’s artistic evolution.

TH March and ValuCert have announced a strategic collaboration aimed at strengthening relationships between jewellery retailers and their customers. This innovative initiative combines expert insurance knowledge with cutting-edge digital support, ensuring that retailers can engage with clients throughout the entire ownership journey. Backed by the National Association of Jewellers, the partnership seeks to address industry challenges by enhancing customer satisfaction and promoting sustainable practices. As retailers adapt to evolving consumer expectations, the emphasis on ongoing engagement and secure access to asset information could redefine the customer experience in the jewellery sector.

Nomadic Watches is preparing to unveil its first Dublin store this November, a significant step aimed at solidifying its status as a luxury Irish watch brand. In collaboration with the historic jeweller Weir & Sons, the new boutique will be situated at 6 Castle Market Street, near the bustling Grafton Street. Following a successful launch in Belfast, where the flagship store increased revenues by over 30%, the Dublin market has shown strong demand for Nomadic’s handcrafted timepieces. Founder Peter McAuley stated, “Opening in Dublin feels like a natural and important next step for Nomadic,” as the brand aims to elevate Ireland’s reputation in the watchmaking industry.

Laura Ashley has debuted its Moonlight Garden collection in collaboration with Gecko Jewellery, featuring striking pieces made from recycled sterling silver. Drawing inspiration from the brand’s iconic floral prints, the collection includes standout items such as the Mr Jones Mother of Pearl Inlay Necklace and the Mummy and Me Nordic Floral Heart necklace, celebrating the bond between mothers and children. With a strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing, the collection is poised for success, already stocking over 100 retailers nationally. As the autumn season approaches, anticipation builds for this fusion of classic design and modern eco-consciousness.

Chronoswiss has unveiled three limited-edition variants of its Neo Digiteur watch, named the Pastel Code, now available in Rose, Mint, and Sky. Each edition is strictly limited to just 99 pieces, featuring a unique mechanical digital display that forgoes traditional hour and minute hands. The design modernises the original 2005 Digiteur, blending contemporary aesthetics with innovative timekeeping. The soft pastel dials are complemented by a sharp rectangular stainless-steel case, creating a striking balance between technology and style. Each watch is powered by the hand-wound Caliber C.85757 movement, ensuring both functionality and elegance in this exclusive release.

Antoine Pin’s appointment as CEO of De Bethune marks a pivotal moment for the independent Swiss watchmaker, as he shifts focus from scarcity-driven marketing to enhancing the artistry and craftsmanship of their timepieces. In collaboration with founder Denis Flageollet, Pin aims to educate collectors and foster genuine desirability, steering clear of traditional luxury strategies. He emphasizes the importance of building a strong community around De Bethune’s unique philosophy, while also recognizing the structural challenges facing the broader Swiss watch industry. As he outlines a vision for the brand’s future, Pin remains cautiously optimistic about balancing creativity with market dynamics in a rapidly changing landscape.

Swatch, often overshadowed by its luxury counterparts, stands as a transformative force in the watch industry. Emerging during the Quartz Crisis, it revitalized Swiss watchmaking through innovative engineering and accessible design, ultimately saving a faltering industry. By promoting watch collecting as a casual hobby and merging timekeeping with modern art through collaborations, Swatch not only redefined consumer perceptions but also provided vital support for luxury brands. Its legacy, encapsulated in vibrant designs and cultural relevance, underscores its significant role in the evolution of horology.