Hamilton & Inches expands George Street site

Hamilton & Inches has unveiled plans to renovate its George Street home to cater to the company’s growing demand. Renovations are now underway and the showroom, situated at 87 George Street, will close from 28 December to 26 January while the restoration work continues. The Edinburgh-based jewellers, which has held a Royal Warrant for over 120 years, said it will renovate the 19th Century building, transforming its showroom, workshops and service department. The reimagined showroom, created by design practice Waldo Works, will feature display areas curated to suit Hamilton and Inches’ contemporary collections. The jewellers said there will also be an expanded Rolex and Patek Philippe presence, private consultation rooms and an upgraded service department, which will include a new watch workshop. Victoria Houghton, CEO for Hamilton & Inches, said: “Hamilton & Inches has stood the test of time, with 154 years of passion, artistry and dedication to craftsmanship. “Now, as a dynamic, independent business we are investing in our future, ensuring we preserve our heritage while also showcasing our broad, contemporary offering, from handcrafted pieces made in our onsite workshop, to leading global brands such as Rolex and Patek Philippe.” She added: “The showroom restoration will allow us to continue to provide unrivalled service in a spectacular setting, while upgraded workshop facilities will ensure the traditional skills of our craftsmen continue to flourish for the next 150 years, and beyond.” Hamilton & Inches said it has worked closely with Historic Environment Scotland on the proposals to ensure the Grade A listed features “remain central” to the aesthetic of the new space. Tom Bartlett, founder of Waldo Works, said: “We were thrilled to be asked to work on the restoration of the Hamilton & Inches showroom and have delved deep into the history of the space and brand. “Waldo Works are contemporary designers and with this in mind we set about refining and re-defining the existing interior to meet a forward looking and modern approach to shopping. However, we have rooted this design in the materials of tradition.”