Govberg Jewelers opens a new 7,500-square-foot showroom in Ardmore as part of The 1916 Company’s legacy.
Govberg Jewelers, a Philadelphia mainstay with a rich history dating back to 1916, has recently embarked on a significant transformation, marking a new chapter in its esteemed legacy. This transformation is epitomized by the recent opening of a newly constructed showroom, spanning 7,500 square feet, in Ardmore, Pennsylvania. This new retail space not only roughly doubles the size of Govberg’s previous location on Suburban Square but also signifies the establishment of The 1916 Company, a newly formed entity that includes Govberg Jewelers, WatchBox, Radcliffe Jewelers, and Hyde Park Jewelers.
The showroom, strategically situated at 102 E. Montgomery Avenue, is designed to cater to a diverse clientele with its combination of upscale luxury and approachable service. John Shmerler, the CEO of The 1916 Company, emphasized that the goal is to create a welcoming environment where clients can engage deeply with the luxury pieces that commemorate life’s significant milestones, from engagements and weddings to retirements and anniversaries.
Jackie Tripoli, a seasoned employee with 35 years of experience at Govberg Jewelers, expressed her excitement about the new showroom. She noted the importance of building personal relationships with customers, a sentiment that resonates with the company’s ethos. Throughout her tenure, Tripoli has supported countless customers during pivotal moments, enhancing the customer experience in luxury jewelry shopping.
The innovative approach of The 1916 Company extends beyond traditional retail. It also integrates the pioneering work done by WatchBox, a platform that facilitates the buying, selling, and trading of authenticated pre-owned luxury watches. This initiative addresses a significant gap in the market, providing a trusted avenue for consumers to engage with secondhand luxury items.
As the luxury watch market grows, particularly following Rolex’s introduction of its certified pre-owned program in 2023, Govberg and his team recognize that the landscape is evolving. With an increasing demand for authenticated pre-owned Rolex watches and a broader acceptance of this market, the showroom is strategically positioned to appeal to both new and veteran collectors.
The establishment of The 1916 Company and its flagship Ardmore showroom reflects a commitment to blending historical legacy with modern retail strategies. As the new brand moves forward, leadership acknowledges the challenges of such a transition. While some long-time customers may feel nostalgia for the Govberg name, there is a concerted effort to resonate with a new generation of consumers and to continue honoring the brand’s heritage.
Open from Tuesday through Saturday, the Ardmore showroom not only serves as a retail space but also as a destination for individuals seeking to celebrate the passage of time with quality jewelry and watches that signify life’s treasured moments. The 1916 Company aims to mark these moments with meaningful connections, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to service and excellence in the luxury market.
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