Diamonds Are Forever
Whittles has been a diamond on Preston’s high street for almost 160 years. The prestigious jewellers has stood the test of time and gone from strength to strength. Our reporter Helen Sanderson talked to Whittles manager, Rose Wilson about the secret to its success. Photography: Roger Moore
Rose explained: “Whittles is a family business with our managing director Joanna Rhodes-Valentine being the fourth generation of the Rhodes family. These family values remain at the heart of our operation. We offer an exceptionally high-level of service and have a team of dedicated and talented staff.”
Recently the business has gone through a transformation and huge investment programme. In late 2018 the showroom was extended to create an exclusive Rolex Room and Luxury Diamond Room and it increased the staff team to 10.
Whittles is accredited as the only Rolex repair centre in Lancashire and Cumbria. This is testament to the expertise and knowledge of in-house watchmaker Barry Douthwaite and the team at Whittles. The Rolex Room showcases a vast selection of the luxury watches which Whittles can boast is amongst the largest selection in the UK.
Rose said: “We stock a vast range from the Rolex collection as well as now also offering a substantial range of luxury time pieces from Omega, Tag Heuer and Breitling. Our dedicated sales team has vast experience and can support and advise on your purchase.”
The beautiful Diamond Room, with its bright lights and twinkling gems is situated away from the busy shop floor. This is an area dedicated to Whittles’ world class, hand-sourced diamonds and gemstones. Whittles is very proud of its highly trained, passionate team. In addition, it has an FGA qualified gemmologist on site eager to share their knowledge and experience. Buying a precious stone will certainly be a memorable occasion.
Complementing its exquisite diamond ring and diamond jewellery selection, Whittles also stocks a vast array of gold jewellery, wedding rings and a host of precious and semi-precious gemstones as well as the world-renowned pearl brand Mikimoto.
Rose explained: “Over the past year or so we have seen an increase in people wanting to purchase much more traditional jewellery. There has been a rise in demand for heavier 9ct gold pieces, from earrings and pendants to necklaces and bracelets. We have noticed that the trend has moved away from silver fashion jewellery back towards gold.”
The gold price has fallen to a much more affordable level and people are once again enjoying buying jewellery that can be heirloom pieces that they can wear with pride. This is where Whittles excels providing a first-class service when you are buying a gift you will treasure.
Whittles
37 Fishergate, Preston PR1 2AD
01772 2527777
whittlesjewellers.co.uk
