insideKENT Magazine Issue 36 - March 2015 | Page 149

LOCALBUSINESS insideKENT TALKS TO Graham Pilkington, owner of Pilkington Jewellers Ltd When did Pilkington Jewellers first open to the public? to offer. If we don't have it, we can get it – or make it! Pilkington Jewellers Ltd was established in 1970, but there has been a jewellers on site for over 60 years now. Customers appreciate the continuity and traditional approach practiced at Pilkington Jewellers. In which services does Pilkington Jewellers specialise? What do you believe makes Pilkington Jewellers stand out from its competitors? I am a trained watchmaker with 50 years' experience specialising in Rolex and other quality timepieces. With a wealth of knowledge on antique clocks, I am happy to make house calls (where necessary) to give valuations on larger pieces that are difficult to move. Unlike many jewellers, Pilkington has a highly qualified watchmaker (Rolex-approved) and goldsmith on site. Repairs and alterations are rarely sent off site. Boasting trained gold and silversmiths on site, we are able to offer customers the opportunity to bring in pictures from magazines or ideas for their own designs and, where possible, these can be made to order. Again, if you have a specific watch in mind, our contacts in the industry mean that it can be sourced, whether new or second hand. Pilkington Jewellers remains an integral part of the Bexley Village community. What do you think the main reasons are behind the business's longevity? Bexley Village still has a strong sense of community. Generations have come to the shop over the years to mark special occasions such as births, graduations and marriages. I'm a wellknown figure in the village and people come for the personal, bespoke service that we are proud We also offer a special one-to-one service, which means we take the time to sit with our customers and discuss their individual requirements. You stock pre-owned and modern jewellery. What changes have you noticed in consumer tastes over the years? Trends come and go, but lately there has been a resurgence for rose gold and of course, designer brands. Customers are recognising that money may be better invested in a diamond or quality watch, which gives more value and pleasure than it sitting in a building society account. Second-hand sales have also soared. Customers have come to realise the value for money represented by pre-owned pieces, which are always serviced and cleaned thoroughly before resale. 149 With Mother's Day on the horizon, what can Pilkington Jewellers offer our readers in the way of gifts? We stock a wide range of jewellery and watches, which would make a superb present for Mother's Day. In addition, decorative items and accessories such as jewellery boxes and photo frames are available – all of which are backed up with the Pilkington guarantee. Items can also be engraved – which, again happens on site – to make that gift extra special. What does the business have planned for 2015? Pilkington Jewellers plans to uphold its reputation for quality and reliability over the coming years, and to give a viable alternative to the bland high street outlets. Pilkington Jewellers is situated opposite Bexley Station Approach. Parking is available by the station or in Thanet Road. Open Tues-Sat, 9.15am-5pm. Pilkington Jewellers Ltd 39-41 Bexley High Street Bexley DA5 1AB 01322 521664 [email protected] www.pilkingtons.uk.com