Multi-generational jewelers up and down the country demonstrate their oversized influence every day on the American watch market thanks to their deep roots into their local communities, familial loyalty to their teams and customers, and that certain je ne sais quoi that an independent eye and approach deliver.
It is the same on the other side of The Pond, where Lister Horsfall, a fourth-generation jeweler based in Halifax, West Yorkshire could be considered a posterchild for this powerful group of independent luxury watch and jewelry retailers; not only carving a living from a town of just 90,000 people with a median household income of around $30,000, but thriving as a Rolex authorized dealer, despite Leeds and Manchester — both major watch-loving cities — providing alternatives under an hour away by train.
“For over 120 years, Lister Horsfall has been a cornerstone of Halifax’s community, offering unmatched quality and service,” says Nick Horsfall, managing director of Lister Horsfall.
“This new showroom is a tribute to our legacy and a promise to continue inspiring our loyal clients for generations to come. It reflects our reputation as not only one of the most respected jewelers in the UK but also as one of the most forward-thinking.”
Lister Horsfall was founded in 1902 as The Little Diamond Shop, but has been through myriad upgrades and alterations (but always the same location) over the past 123 years, and fully reopened after a multi-million dollar refurbishment last month that expanded its retail space to 7,360 square feet across two floors connected by a sweeping staircase.
Definitions of Rolex presentations within jewelers are complex. The Rolex-approved description for its area within Lister Horsfall is a Rolex ‘space’, but there is no disguising its anchor brand status for the store.
It has been given a prime location at the foot of the statement staircase and its design using walnut, golden accents, natural stone and beige leather sets the aesthetic for the rest of the ground floor.
Rolex has its own consultation area, which is in addition to a VIP lounge with a fully-stocked bar.
Lister Horsfall has not yet joined the Rolex Certified Pre-Owned program, but does have an on-site Rolex Authorized Service Center and a dedicated area for second hand watches along with branded space for Tudor, Breitling, TAG Heuer, and Longines.
On the jewellery front, Lister Horsfall has chosen a branded line-up from Fope, Yoko London and Gucci.
Hospitality and experiences are given as much attention as retail with the new store able to host product launches and other customer events.
“At the heart of this venture is our commitment to creating a warm, inviting atmosphere,” says managing director Gemma Moody.
“We’re excited to build strong relationships with our customers and set new standards for excellence in retail. This beautiful showroom represents everything we stand for.”
