Family-owned luxury jewellers, Laings, has announced plans to open a second TAG Heuer boutique in Scotland, which will be situated in the prime luxury retail location of Multrees Walk in Edinburgh.
The new store, opening in Spring 2024, follows the successful launch of Scotland’s first mono-brand TAG boutique, which opened on Glasgow’s Buchanan Street in September.
The new store further solidifies Laings continued commitment to a bricks and mortar presence and its strive to create the very best, personal customer experiences.
The new showroom, which will span more than 100 m², will create several new jobs for the local area, across various roles including managerial positions and client advisors.
Stuart McDowell, managing director of Laings said: “The proposed opening of a second store marks the latest milestone in the exciting evolution of our relationship with TAG Heuer and demonstrates the luxury brand’s commitment to fully establishing its presence in Scotland.
“With a wealth of collections on display, we are looking forward to welcoming clients into our Edinburgh showroom next year. Whether it be their first venture into luxury Swiss watches or extending a growing passion for TAG Heuer, our clients will be offered a truly exceptional immersive experience.”
Rob Diver, managing director of TAG Heuer UK and Ireland said: “Following the opening of our first boutique in Glasgow this year with Laings, we look forward to further strengthening our new and valued partnership with the esteemed jeweller, and extending the TAG Heuer offering to clients in the Scottish capital, where we are confident TAG Heuer will receive an equally warm reception among the clients.”
The showroom will include an interactive display area showcasing cutting-edge technology, as well as a luxurious lounge, allowing clients to shop in comfort as well as style – along with the usual level of privacy and confidentiality, which has become synonymous with Laings.
The opening of the Edinburgh boutique is part of Laings’ wider multi-million pound investment to build on its legacy as a leading destination for luxury jewellery and watches.
Boutique will offer luxury jewellery piercings, pieces, and bespoke ear styling service
Edinburgh-born jewellery brand, Laura Bond, is set to open its flagship store, located on Thistle Street in Edinburgh on Saturday (9 September). Previously available online only, the new home of Laura Bond will allow customers to receive the full brand experience in person for the first time.
The new headquarters, in Scotland’s capital, will showcase Laura’s full luxury jewellery collection, provide bespoke ear styling consultations, and will soon be offering piercing services.
Designed by Laura herself, every piece of jewellery is ethically produced and made with responsibly sourced gold. The brand has attracted a strong customer and celebrity fan base including Florence Pugh, Michelle Visage, and Nathalie Emmanuelle, who wore Laura Bond to the 2022 Oscars.
Speaking of the launch, Laura Bond said: “This is a huge opportunity for us and I’m so excited to be opening our first store in Edinburgh. To say it’s a dream come true is an understatement. I can’t wait to welcome customers – old and new, from near or far – to experience our bespoke ear styling service and to get pierced in our stunning piercing parlour.
“I really believe Laura Bond offers a unique experience in the world of luxury piercings and jewellery and I can’t wait to meet everyone in store.”
The new store was previously occupied by the award-winning and much-loved Edinburgh women’s boutique, Jane Davidson. After 53 years of business in the capital, the luxury brand carefully chose Laura Bond to be its successor.
Sarah Murray, Proprietor of Jane Davidson said: “The boutique had been a constant presence in my life; our customers were not only incredibly loyal, but many became dear friends.
“As difficult as the decision was to close our doors last year, I was always determined that if we did, then we would have to find the perfect brand to take on our property. Laura Bond is just that; we can’t wait to watch Laura and her brand grow at 52 Thistle Street.”
With each collection, Laura Bond continues to push the boundaries of delicate and decorative pieces, leaving an indelible mark on the world of conscious luxury jewellery.
Laura said: “I really believe jewellery should be an expression of the person wearing it, and each piece I design is crafted with that in mind.
“We are committed to creating jewellery that isn’t just saved for special occasions but tells a unique story and invites people to express themselves and mark relationships, milestones, or memories with others.”
Laura Bond is available to buy online and in their new flagship store on Thistle Street in Edinburgh from Saturday the 9th of September.
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.
POLICE are appealing for information following a high-value house breaking in the Liberton area on Thursday, 2 February 2023.
Between 5pm and 5.30pm a house on Greenpark was broken into and a five-figure sum of cash and a four-figure sum of jewellery stolen.
There was no one in the house at the time of the break-in and officers are keen to trace two men seen at the time. They left on foot in the direction of Burdiehouse Burn.
The first suspect is described as white, aged in his 40s, with grey hair. He was wearing glasses, a dark coloured jacket, blue jeans and dark trainers.
The second is described as white, aged in his 20s. He was wearing a baseball cap, black Puffa style jacket, black jeans, black trainers and was carrying a dark coloured rucksack.
Detective Constable Scott Lynas, of Corstorphine CID, said: “Officers have been carrying out extensive enquiries, including checking CCTV.
“We believe the property was targeted and we are keen to speak to anyone who may have seen these men, or anyone else acting suspiciously before and after the break-in. It is near an area popular with dog walkers so anyone with information is asked to get in touch.
“In addition, if you have private CCTV or dash-cam footage that could assist with our investigation then please also contact us.”
Anyone with information is asked to call police via 101, quoting reference number 3009 of Thursday, 2 February 2023. Alternatively, details can be passed anonymously to the charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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.”
Adult Education resuming a limited face to face programme – with a few courses starting at Leith Community Centre from 8th November for a 5 week term.
All precautions will be taken with distancing, mask wearing, sanitising and ventilation to Keep students and tutors safe. So the class can get on with being fun, informal and informative!
Courses available are:
Activity
LVL
Start date
Day
Time
Art(PR): Drawing & Painting – All – (8/11) – LCC12311N
ALL
08/11/2021
Monday
10:00 – 12:00
Yoga: Gentle – All – (9/11) – LCC65852N
ALL
09/11/2021
Tuesday
17:30 – 19:00
Russian – Beginner – (9/11) – LCC55512N
BEG
09/11/2021
Tuesday
15:00 – 17:00
Russian – Post Beginner – (9/11) – LCC55752N
PBG
09/11/2021
Tuesday
18:00 – 20:00
Writing Creative: Life Writing – All – (9/11) – LCC64652N
ALL
09/11/2021
Tuesday
18:30 – 20:30
Art(PR): Drawing & Painting – All – (10/11) – LCC12313N
ALL
10/11/2021
Wednesday
10:00 – 12:00
Yoga – All – (10/11) – LCC65753N
ALL
10/11/2021
Wednesday
17:30 – 19:00
Art(PR): Drawing & Painting – All – (10/11) – LCC12353N
ALL
10/11/2021
Wednesday
18:00 – 20:00
Discover: Archaeology Today – All – (11/11) – LCC32614N
ALL
11/11/2021
Thursday
15:00 – 17:00
Art(PR): Drawing & Painting – All – (12/11) – LCC12315N
You can book on our website: www.joininedinburgh.org – the courses will be available to view and book from today – Thursday morning.
Telephone enrolments will be available for 2 days on Thursday 21st October and Friday 22nd October this week from 10:00 – 16:00 by calling (0131) 469 3003 or (0131) 469 3005.
Courses will be charged at £41.25 for the standard fee and £16.50 for benefits, senior citizens and students.
Laings The Jewellers is honoured to welcome revered luxury maison, Fabergé, to its showrooms in Edinburgh and Cardiff, alongside its online store.
Fabergé has become renowned throughout the world as an artist jeweller, creating extraordinary jewellery and objects of art, as well as bespoke commissions for an international clientele.
Founded in 1842, Fabergé has gained an unrivalled legacy ever since Peter Carl Fabergé became the official goldsmith to the Russian Imperial Court, providing exquisite jewels and the legendary series of lavish Imperial Eggs.
These eggs were adored by the Empresses of Russia’s royal House of Romanov and gained acclaim throughout the European world of royalty and aristocracy.
Today, Fabergé has carved out a unique place in the cultural landscape as a symbol of the ultimate prestige and luxury.
Iterations of the iconic Fabergé Egg have featured in Hollywood productions such as James Bond Octopussy, Peaky Blinders and Ocean’s Twelve, and Fabergé’s High Jewellery creations regularly adorn celebrity red carpet appearances, worn by the likes of Helen Mirren, Dua Lipa and Winnie Harlow.
Stuart McDowell, Managing Director of Laings, said: “It’s an honour to offer our clientele the opportunity to enjoy Fabergé, a magnificent maison that values ‘A Life in Colour’ and has an incredible legacy.
“The collections present a beautiful relationship with the brand’s history and the present day, and we are looking forward to showcasing Fabergé’s magic in Edinburgh, Cardiff and our online store.”
Laings will launch Fabergé with an array of collections including Heritage – a quintessentially Fabergé offering drawing inspiration from its historic masterpieces, Colours of Love – a vibrant array of jewellery that exemplifies the philosophy of ‘A Life in Colour’ and celebrates special lifetime events, and Essence – a selection of egg-inspired jewellery that embodies Fabergé’s world of surprise and delight.
Antony Lindsay, Managing Director of Fabergé, said: “We are delighted to be working with arguably one of the most esteemed and established jewellers here in the UK that offer nothing but the very best for its distinguished clientele.
“Both Laings and Fabergé have a rich, illustrious history that when combined spans well over two centuries and has allowed for time-honoured values and traditions to be refined, perfected and passed onto our discerning clients.”
Fabergé is showcasing a much anticipated exhibition‘Romance to Revolution’ at the Victoria & Albert Museum London, opening 20 November 2021.
Laings encourages all Fabergé enthusiasts to explore the wonder of the maison at the exhibition, which will host over 200 precious objects including three remarkable Imperial Eggs lent to the V&A by Moscow Kremlin Museums.
Family-run jewellers Laings has unveiled its vision for the future, with ambitious new plans to strengthen its presence across the United Kingdom.
After celebrating 180 years of trading in 2020, Laings is now looking ahead to build on its legacy as a leading destination for luxury jewellery and watches with extensive expansion plans set to be unveiled, aimed at enhancing the client experience across its key locations.
Through six generations of family ownership, Laings has grown to become a leading independent luxury jeweller, with six showrooms across four locations – Glasgow, Edinburgh, Southampton and Cardiff.
Laings offers a curated selection of fine jewellery and watches from some of the world’s most prestigious brands, including Rolex and Patek Philippe, as well as bespoke design and repair services by the in-house team of master watchmakers, goldsmiths and jewellery designers.
Now, expanding its retail strategy while staying true to the heritage of the business, the jewellers has announced it will be investing £10 million into the company over the next two years. The investment will see Laings transform its showrooms and workshops, reimagining the customer experience while ensuring traditional jewellers’ crafts are kept alive for generations to come.
The first in a series of transformations will be unveiled this Autumn with work already underway to treble the size of Laings’ St David’s Centre Cardiff showroom, allowing the company to introduce Swiss watch brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe to its Welsh clientele.
An investment which demonstrates the trust Laings holds with luxury horology’s most prominent brands, who have existing relationships with Laings having worked together for years in other cities.
Stuart McDowell, Retail Director at Laings, says: “The expansion in Cardiff is in response to our client’s enquiries – catering to the watch collectors of Wales who might not have Laings at the forefront of their minds now, but hopefully they soon will.
“The showroom is right in the heart of the capital city and our expanded presence means we can give the brands we represent the stage to shine. No longer will Cardiff clients need to travel outside their home city to access these brands, they can enjoy having them on their doorstep – with Laings.”
Laings is also revolutionising the way its Welsh customers experience diamonds and jewellery with the introduction of private viewings.
The expanded showroom is set to include dedicated diamond and jewellery areas so that clients can view the carefully curated collections in private, with a glass of champagne served by Laings’ refreshments partner Lanson. Despite the changes, clients can expect the same warmth, expertise and attention that they have become accustomed to at Laings.
Laings’ workshops in Scotland will also see significant investment, marking the beginning of a new client experience. For the first time in the company’s history, clients will be invited to join the watchmakers and goldsmiths behind the benches to see their skills in action when completing services, drawing back the curtain on the artisan crafts and allowing the team to take centre stage.
Upon opening, the workshops will play host to client immersion sessions, luxury events and meet the makers demonstrations to showcase expertise, allowing clients to see the intricacies of every service first-hand.
Laings also hopes that breathing new life into the workshops will attract visibility to the industry and inspire a new generation of talent to train in the field. With a recruitment plan spanning all areas of the business, Laings aims to grow its team by up to 25 per cent, providing opportunities for both apprentices and existing watchmakers and goldsmiths in locations where there have traditionally been less positions available, safeguarding these artisan skills for the future.
Laings CEO, Joe Walsh, says: “The workshops create a special experience for our customers. Not only will they be able to talk to the watchmakers and see them working, they’ll also be able to attend events where they can gain a deeper insight into the craft – taking watches apart, seeing how the mechanics work and putting them back together. People are looking for experiences now and that’s what we want – to deliver a new form of retail that captures the imagination of our clients.”
These developments signal the start of a longer-term growth plan for Laings. Over the next 24 months, the company will embark on a journey of evolution to challenge jewellery and watchmaking retail experiences – bringing innovation to every area of the business, while never forgetting the deep-rooted heritage that anchors the Laings story.
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.
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.
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.
