Tag: Hamilton & Inches

Hamilton & Inches to showcase the 2023 Rolex Collection


Hamilton & Inches, a Scottish luxury jeweller and jewellery designer, is hosting the highly anticipated 2023 Rolex collection at its prestigious showroom in the heart of Edinburgh. This exhibition promises to be a captivating celebration of craftsmanship, presenting the latest iconic creations from Rolex.

The showcase which takes place from June 12th to June 20th, will unveil the brand’s newest additions, including the exquisite Oyster Perpetual 1908. Drawing inspiration from one of Rolex’s first watches with a Perpetual rotor, this completely new timepiece opens the Perpetual collection in a modern and avant-garde fashion, redefining traditional watchmaking through their visionary lens.

Victoria Houghton, CEO of Hamilton & Inches, said: “Our Edinburgh showroom sets the perfect stage to showcase the remarkable 2023 Rolex Collection. This exhibition offers our valued clientele a rare opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the world of luxury watchmaking, granting an unparalleled opportunity to see the newest array of Rolex novelties in person.

“Each visitor’s experience will be tailored to their preferences, ensuring a bespoke exhibition that leaves a lasting impression. It serves as an exceptional opportunity to gain real insight and become knowledgeable about these new pieces.”

Joining the line up is the light and robust, new Yacht-Master 42, an ally of those seeking freedom of movement. Especially suited to the demands and pressures of competitive sailing, it puts watchmaking excellence at the pinnacle of sporting performance.

To mark the watch’s 60th anniversary, Rolex has rejuvenated the iconic Oyster Perpetual Cosmograph Daytona, to produce a timepiece with enhanced visual harmony and a more modern demeanour.

The Oyster Perpetual GMT-Master II joins the collection as the ultimate navigation companion whilst embodying Rolex’s dedication to excellence and precision.

These highlights represent just a glimpse into the stunning array of timepieces that will be on display during the exhibition. With its full collection of latest creations, Rolex proudly showcases its perpetual pursuit of excellence. The watches unveiled illustrate the brand’s commitment to reinvention and cutting-edge technology while honouring tradition and timeless artistry.

The 2023 Rolex collection exhibition reinforces Hamilton & Inches’ position as the capital’s premier destination for fine jewellery, luxurious watches, and handcrafted silver. From June 12th to June 20th, the 2023 exhibition will offer customers and watch enthusiasts an opportunity to explore the innovations that Rolex has crafted for this year. Visitors can view the collection without an appointment during the showroom opening hours.

As well as attending the exhibition, customers can also take advantage of Hamilton & Inches high-quality watch service and repairs. As the first accredited Rolex Service Centre in Edinburgh, Hamilton & Inches has a heightened after-sales customer service, offering the ultimate immersive and luxurious experience.

To find out more, visit www.hamiltonandinches.com

Hamilton & Inches launches Craft Academy

Hamilton & Inches today launched its Craft Academy, which will teach and foster talent amongst the next generation of craftspeople.

Already home to exceptional silversmiths, goldsmiths, polishers, hand-engravers and watchmakers, Hamilton & Inches will help to support and develop the future of craftsmanship in Scotland by continuing to invest in crucial apprenticeships and training.

The Hamilton & Inches Craft Academy is offering two silversmithing internships for 3rd year university students, and one 4-year polishing apprenticeship.

The placements will be undertaken at the Hamilton & Inches workshops, which are located above the recently refurbished showroom in the heart of Edinburgh.

The successful candidates will gain experience to create elaborate pieces that Hamilton & Inches is renowned for, such as Scottish Rugby’s Cuttitta Cup, which will be contested annually between Scotland and Italy in the Six Nations Championship and which was unveiled earlier this month.

The launch is part of the ongoing support Hamilton & Inches has provided to talented young artisans. Trainee silversmith Ruth Page joined the Hamilton & Inches team in 2019 following a 3-month placement as part of her BA (Hons) Degree at the Edinburgh College of Art.

Since then, Ruth has created numerous collections and pieces, including the intricate Gingko light installation which is a focal point in the Hamilton & Inches showroom.

As part of the Craft Academy, there are two openings for the paid silversmithing internships, one which is open to 3rd year students studying jewellery and silversmithing courses across Scotland and the second is open to 3rd year Edinburgh College of Art jewellery and silversmithing students.

As well as being trained by expert artisans who are some of the finest craftspeople in the UK, successful applicants will be awarded with a £1,500 grant on completion of the internship to support with 4th year studies.

During this time, the silversmithing interns will be expertly trained by the Hamilton & Inches silversmith team and will develop the techniques needed to excel in this ancient craft. They will have the opportunity to create a range of silverware in traditional and contemporary designs, including christening items and silverware collections.

Further, the 4-year polishing apprenticeship will provide the opportunity to be part of the Hamilton & Inches award-winning polishing department, which is responsible for the polishing and restoration of varying precious items, including world renowned trophies.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “We are continuing our quest to support the future of craft in Scotland and beyond with the launch of the Hamilton & Inches Craft Academy, which provides invaluable opportunities for budding artisans.

“Thanks to our talented team and our recently refurbished workshops, we have the optimum foundation in place to train the next generation of craftspeople. We look forward to inspiring the next generation of talent”.

David Ramsay, Senior Silversmith at Hamilton & Inches, said: “After joining Hamilton & Inches as a modern-day apprentice and learning from some of the best craftspeople in the country, I know first-hand the brilliant opportunity this presents.

“There is nothing more important than the passing on of skills to ensure we continue to protect our industry into the future and I’m excited to welcome the new additions to our team”.

To find out more information on how to apply, visit www.hamiltonandinches.com.

Hamilton & Inches is Edinburgh’s first Rolex Accredited Service Centre

Hamilton & Inches has made history this week through its appointment as a Rolex Service Centre in Edinburgh. Only the second of its kind in Scotland, the move marks a major milestone in the 155-year watchmaking history of the established luxury jewellers.

The recently refurbished fine jewellery store, which already offers high-quality watch service and repairs, has heightened its after-sales customer service offering by achieving the prestigious Rolex Service Centre status.

In line with the Rolex Service Procedure and drawing on in-house Rolex-accredited watchmakers’ invaluable expertise, this new service provides customers with an elevated experience and a guarantee that their cherished timepieces are serviced to the highest standard.

All interventions are expertly carried out by inhouse Watchmakers at Hamilton & Inches specialist watch workshops. Following a complete overhaul, all timepieces are covered by a two-year international Rolex Service Guarantee.

The introduction of this new service provides Hamilton & Inches with a unique mark of distinction. Clients will not only be able to take advantage of the new accredited Service Centre in-store, but they will have the opportunity to meet the watchmakers and see first-hand the highly skilled work that goes into luxury watchmaking.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “At Hamilton & Inches, we take immense pride in our craftsmanship and commitment to giving our clientele a bespoke experience.

“Our new Rolex Service Centre is a milestone addition to our prestigious offering. This provides us with a valuable opportunity to complete the customer journey and offer an exceptional level of after-care, in house.

“We’re delighted to be only the second Rolex Service Centre in Scotland. This is a true testament to the work and dedication of our Watchmakers, and we look forward to their continued advancements and dedication to this unique craft.”

Toby Barrett, Rolex Accredited Watchmaker at Hamilton & Inches added: “We look forward to continuing to provide our clients with the same level of service they would expect from Rolex, here in Edinburgh.

“The customer can be reassured knowing our Service Centre workshop is fully equipped with the latest Rolex tooling to fully complete their service here with Hamilton & Inches.”

To find out more, visit www.hamiltonandinches.com.

Edinburgh women to Flourish in jewellery design

Funded by Creative Scotland, The Flourish Jewellery Project is an exciting craft jewellery project. Working in partnership with North Edinburgh Arts and Four-Square’s Womanzone, Jewellery Artists, Lisa Arnott and Jessica Howarth have enabled women who are recovering from trauma from domestic violence, drug and alcohol addiction, social isolation, and economic hardship to develop new skills in jewellery design and making.

Working with a variety of organisations who support women, Lisa and Jessica created a series of outreach jewellery sessions introducing and enabling the women to make rings, pendants and bangles from silver. For these participants, being part of this project has provided a space for them to dare to dream and have a moment in their week where their creativity is realised.

From the outreach session, 12 women then went on to engage with the project on more intensive weekly jewellery and metalwork sessions. During this time, they learnt the foundations of metal and jewellery work which included saw piercing, soldering, texturing and shaping metal.

Despite the various challenges the women experienced, the project has provided materials, travel and childcare alongside safe and high-quality jewellery workshops.

Having never made any jewellery out of metal at the start of the project, the women from the Flourish Jewellery Project have now produced a small collection of silver jewellery which will be on display at the project’s exhibition, which takes place from 22nd until the 25th January at Custom House in Leith.

The exhibition, which is sponsored by fine jeweller, Hamilton & Inches, with support from the Scottish Goldsmith Trust and Scottish Historic Building Trust, will display beautifully handcrafted items.

Lisa Arnott (above) and Jessica Howarth said: “We were both delighted to have received funding from Creative Scotland for the Flourish Jewellery Project.

“By working in partnership with Foursquare’s, Womenzone project and North Edinburgh Arts in Muirhouse we have been providing jewellery making opportunities for women from across the city.

“This project has enabled women who have experienced trauma, social isolation and/or economic challenges to develop traditional jewellery making skills.”

A Flourish participant said: “The Flourish Jewellery Project has made me find myself. I’m shocked at who I was when I first started coming as to who I am now”.

Earlier this Autumn the Flourish Jewellery Project was featured at The New York Jewellery Week 2021’s the ‘Power of Jewellery’ and was shortlisted for a Creative Edinburgh Award for Best in Collaboration. 

Lisa and Jess (above) have also taken part in research undertaken by University College London and Birmingham City University and collaborated with a host of local artists and designers.

This has included Professor Sandra Wilson from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art and Design, furniture designer Colin Parker, web designers Erin Smith and Zena Walczynska, illustrations by Kinship Press, Photographer Shannon Tofts and Media Scotland who are co-producing a film reflecting the women’s experience of the project.

The project is now becoming a community interest company and has secured further funding to enable six women to continue to develop their jewellery training further.

2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition arriving at Hamilton & Inches

Hamilton & Inches is hosting the 2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition at its newly renovated showroom in Edinburgh. Brought to life by its unique watchmaking expertise, the exhibition will showcase latest timeless pieces from Rolex.

The 2021 exhibition is taking place from the 1st to the 7th of November and will give customers a chance to view the 2021 Rolex novelties. The collection will be available to view without an appointment during the showroom opening hours.

The exhibition will display the newest pieces in the Rolex portfolio, including the new-generation Explorer and Explorer II. The Explorer collection has long been developed in collaboration with legendary explorers to ensure expert performance. The new additions are emblematic of the brand’s perpetual drive to improve and its never-ending quest for excellence.

The exhibition will also give Hamilton & Inches customers the chance to view the unique Rolex dials, including new versions of the Datejust 36 and the Cosmograph Daytona which showcase refined and original dials – from palm dials to meteorite!

The 2021 Rolex Novelties exhibition reinforces Hamilton & Inches’ position as Edinburgh’s premiere destination for fine jewellery, luxury watches and hand-crafted silver.

Having recently undergone an extensive renovation, the Rolex showroom offers a serene and luxurious escape from the bustling city of Edinburgh. Hamilton & Inches is also proud to offer its customers first-class watch servicing from its in-house Rolex-accredited watchmaker.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “Our newly renovated showroom in Edinburgh is the perfect place to host the 2021 Rolex Novelties Exhibition.

“This exhibition will allow our customers to fully immerse themselves in the world of luxury watchmaking and will provide visitors with the perfect opportunity to see the latest set of Rolex novelties in person.”

To find out more, visit www.hamiltonandinches.com

Hamilton & Inches to host ‘Elements’ pop-up exhibition

World leading craft makers continue to be celebrated at Hamilton & Inches

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Hamilton & Inches is hosting a pop-up event for Scotland’s Elements’ festival. Organised by the Scottish Goldsmiths Trust in partnership with Lyon & Turnbull Auctioneers, the festival is an annual celebration of leading UK Jewellers and Silversmiths.

The pop-up exhibition is taking place at Hamilton & Inches’ recently renovated showroom and is running from the 14th until the 17th of October.

It will showcase three, world-class, craft makers and will shine a spotlight on their expert, handcrafted designs. Attendees will also have the chance to meet the makers, who will exhibit a variety of eye-catching, elegant and contemporary designs.

Specifically, Hamilton & Inches will showcase the intricate fineries of Michelle Currie, Alice Fry and Sheila McDonald (above).

Their designs will be available to purchase in store and any commission made on behalf of Hamilton & Inches will be donated to the Scottish Goldsmith Trust, continuing Hamilton & Inches’ focus to support both established and emerging artisans.

The Element’s pop-up exhibition is exemplary of Hamilton & Inches commitment to sustaining craft in Scotland as well as its dedication to supporting the careers of craft makers.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “The Element’s pop-up exhibition is a fantastic opportunity for us to highlight the importance of craft and craftmanship in the UK.

“Our commitment to sustainability is demonstrated in the recent refurbishment of our showroom and workshops and, with craftmanship being the pinnacle of our operations, we are proud to support these craft makers and their beautifully diverse creations.”

Hamilton & Inches unveils new Celebrating our Craft exhibition

Rare JK Rowling jewelled novel cover among handcrafted items on display as part of Hamilton & Inches’ celebrations for 155yr anniversary

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Hamilton & Inches has unveiled its new Celebrating our Craft exhibition, which celebrates handcrafted works from its 155-year history.

The exclusive exhibition, which is running until 5th September and located in the beautifully reimagined showroom in Edinburgh, showcases some of the most intricate and luxurious creations from generations of artisans, with the earliest piece dating back to 1885.

Amongst the collection of handcrafted items is a rare, jewelled cover of JK Rowling’s handwritten The Tales of Beedle the Bard. Trophies celebrating The Scottish Open, the Royal Highland Show and Scottish Women’s Football are also included in the exhibition, alongside a further 70 items generously loaned by businesses and clients alike.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “The Celebrating our Craft showcase provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate one hundred and fifty-five years in business.

“We have provided access to never-before-seen, beautifully intricate creations by our extremely talented team of artisans from throughout the years. This craftsmanship is central to our operations and showcasing their incredible work is a fitting way to celebrate this momentous milestone”.

Home to an expert team of silversmiths and jewellers, Hamilton & Inches has created items for a wide array of clients including Archerfield, Diageo and more. Bespoke commissions continue to be created in the workshops with experts utilising traditional skills and crafts to create beautiful, iconic items that will be remembered and celebrated forever.

Hamilton & Inches is committed to ensuring craftsmanship is relevant to contemporary life, especially at a time when sustainability is of such importance.

The Celebrating our Craft showcase shines a light on the impact and reach of Hamilton & Inches and how important it is for the craft to continue throughout Scotland.

Hamilton & Inches showcase their greatest designs to celebrate 155yr anniversary

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Hamilton & Inches are set to celebrate handcrafted works from their 155-year history in their exciting new Celebrating our Craft exhibition in August.

Located at their recently renovated showroom in Edinburgh, the exhibition highlights the exceptional work of generations of artisans, the earliest piece dating back to 1887.

Amongst the collection of handcrafted items is a jewelled cover of JK Rowling’s handwritten The Tales of Beedle the Bard. Trophies celebrating The Scottish Open, the Royal Highland Show and Scottish Women’s Football will also be on display, alongside a further 70 items generously donated by businesses and customers alike.

The Tales of Beedle the Bard was originally handwritten and illustrated by J.K. Rowling as a limited edition of only seven copies, one of which was sold at auction in 2007 to raise money for charity.  It was then published in 2008 and continues to be sold in aid of J.K. Rowling’s children’s charity Lumos. 

Last year, the Edinburgh-based jewellers – which has held a Royal Warrant for over 120 years – launched a search for bespoke items created by its talented craftspeople to create an extensivedisplay featuring some of its greatest designs.

Home to an expert team of silversmiths and jewellers, Hamilton & Inches has created items for a wide array of clients including Archerfield, Diageo and more.

The intricate and luxurious creations will feature within this incredible display from the 26 August until 5 September at their beautifully reimagined showroom in central Edinburgh.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “One hundred and fifty-five years in business is a wonderful milestone to reach and we want to make sure we mark the occasion properly. Showcasing the pieces created by our extremely talented team and celebrating their craft is the perfect way to do so.

“We look forward to welcoming visitors and sharing the history behind the items featured within the Celebrating our Craft showcase.”

Bespoke commissions continue to be created in the workshops with experts utilising ancient skills and crafts to create beautiful, iconic items that will be remembered and celebrated forever.

Hamilton & Inches is committed to ensuring craftmanship is relevant to contemporary life, especially at a time when sustainability is of such importance. The Celebrating our Craft showcase will shine a light on the impact and reach of Hamilton & Inches and how important it is for the craft to continue throughout Scotland.

Hamilton & Inches unveils beautifully reimagined showroom

Today (Monday 26 April), Hamilton & Inches is celebrating the reopening of its iconic showroom after undergoing an extensive regeneration.

Dedicated to enhancing the customer experience with work undertaken across its showroom, workshops, and service department, this incredible transformation has kept the building’s historic accents at the heart of the restoration, creating a space that celebrates heritage whilst innovating with contemporary design.

To accentuate the glamour of the new showroom, a striking new store front is clad in Scottish Whintone and sees Hamilton & Inches rejuvenate its original design, by installing curved glass panels set in an antique bronze, with jewellery displayed on a carved breccia marble plinth topped in silk.  

Reinforcing its position as a premiere destination for fine jewellery and luxury watches, the focal point of the newly restored showroom is a hand-crafted silver Ginkgo leaf installation fitted above the diamond bar.

This bespoke element was created on the premises by Hamilton & Inches’ master craftspeople with each silver leaf created to honour the team and history which encases the brand. Alongside the installation, clients will be able to purchase a piece of the limited edition Ginkgo collection compromising of beautifully handcrafted contemporary items.

Working closely with Historic Environment Scotland on the plans, Hamilton & Inches partnered with leading conservation practice Simpson & Brown Architects, and founder of award-winning design practice Waldo Works, Tom Bartlett, to restore and revitalise the five-story Georgian building located at 87 George Street.

Mr Bartlett collaborated with Hamilton & Inches CEO, Victoria Houghton, to hand select Scottish materials and furnishings such as curtains from Sinclairs, a professional Edinburgh based workshop, cushions from renowned designers, Timorous Beasties, and leather used for the service desks from local supplier, Alma Leather to further enrich the space and pay homage to its local roots. 

New interior features, influenced by historic photographs of the Victorian Hamilton & Inches, include a traditional design palette, incorporating leather cladding, bronze framing, walnut trims, and silk linings, reimagined, and reinvented for today.  

Each new element accentuates the ornate historic details of the dramatic Georgian ceiling, alongside chandelier lighting, which creates a generous glow that spills out onto George Street.

Upgrades have also taken place throughout the three floors above the Showroom which continue to be occupied by the team’s master craftspeople and their apprentices, who handcraft bespoke jewellery and silver designs onsite.

Newly installed, stylish service desks throughout the showroom floor will enable clients to access ongoing maintenance for their treasured pieces, within a beautifully curated lifestyle area, situated beside the 19th century Adam fireplace.

The lifestyle area offers clients a space where they can drop in to shop, stay for a cup of coffee, or a glass of champagne. Clients will also have access to a more intimate and discreet shopping experience with the private VIP consultation rooms.

Specialist facilities for watch technicians and valuers at ground and lower level have also seen upgrades, including a state-of-the-art Rolex accredited workshop, as well as an expanded Rolex and Patek Philippe presence across the showroom.

In line with the brands’ sustainable ethos, Hamilton & Inches carefully selected local tradespeople for the showroom project, choosing each for their skills, expertise, and like-minded craftsmanship.

By championing local suppliers and using traditional materials, the handpicked organisations have created a trustworthy assurance of quality, ensuring that the showroom delights Hamilton & Inches’ new and returning customers.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “I’m thrilled to unveil the newly restored showroom. This has been an amazing journey, and everyone including local contractors SJS, local chartered quantity surveyors McLeod & Aitken and bespoke joinery and furniture specialists Laurence McIntosh have worked so hard to bring our vision to life.

“The customer experience has been at the forefront of this project since inception. We incorporated residential elements into a retail environment to achieve an inviting and comfortable atmosphere whilst creating a memorable luxury experience.”

Tom Bartlett, Waldo Works founder, said: “It has been a wonderful experience to work with Hamilton & Inches in creating what I believe is the most beautiful store in Scotland.

“It is rare to work with a client who’s focus from the inception was to reflect the quality and design excellence of their product in the design and construction of this intricate showroom.”

Delivering an authentic and bespoke service, the team at Hamilton & Inches is excited to provide customers once again with an unforgettable experience.

To find out more about Hamilton & Inches and the new showroom opening, visit hamiltonandinches.com.

Iconic Edinburgh jewellers embarks on a treasure hunt to curate an exhibition to celebrate its craft

Hamilton & Inches has launched a search for bespoke items created by its talented craftspeople over its 155 year history, to create an extensive Celebrating Our Craft exhibition featuring some of its greatest designs.

Home to an expert team of silversmiths and jewellers, Hamilton & Inches has created special pieces for a wide array of clients including the Scottish Rugby Union and Glenrothes distillery which have been designed and handcrafted in the workshops situated above the showroom on George Street.

This exhibition will not only celebrate old artefacts and past projects but the talent of the team who have helped to mark many a memorable moment.

The Edinburgh-based jewellers – which has held a Royal Warrant for over 120 years – is currently working to carefully renovate the 19th century building, transforming its showroom, workshops and service department to create an even more memorable experience for Hamilton & Inches customers.

Adding to this in-store experience will be the Celebrating Our Craft exhibition, set to be on display from March 2021, showcasing the pieces against the beautifully reimagined showroom.

Bespoke commissions continue to be created in the workshops to this day, using ancient skills and crafts still in operation, all essential to creating beautiful, iconic items that will be remembered and celebrated forever.

Hamilton & Inches is committed to ensuring craftmanship is relevant to contemporary life, especially at a time when fast fashion is a huge part of our culture. This exhibition will shine a light on the impact and reach of Hamilton & Inches and how important it is for the craft to continue throughout Scotland.

Victoria Houghton, Hamilton & Inches CEO, said: “Now that we’re in our 155th year, it’s the perfect time to celebrate our past creations and look to the future.

“The Celebrating Our Craft exhibition will not only allow us to showcase a collection of exquisite items – but will act as an opportunity to share the incredible stories behind them with existing and new audiences.”

To help curate the Celebrating Our Craft exhibition, Hamilton & Inches are asking for anyone who has commissioned a bespoke item which could feature in the showcase to get in touch. Please email hello@hamiltonandinches.com with details and images of the piece.