When you hear the name Garrard, your mind might immediately go to dazzling royal jewels, historic crowns, or perhaps Princess Diana’s iconic sapphire engagement ring. For centuries, Garrard has held a position of unparalleled prestige in the world of high jewellery. But what many watch enthusiasts might not know is that Garrard also has a rich, if sometimes overlooked, history in the world of horology.
Here at W.E. Clark Watch Repairs, we appreciate the blend of history and mechanical mastery. While we are more commonly asked to service and repair brands that are strictly watchmakers, it’s always a pleasure to receive a Garrard timepiece and we are experienced servicing the full range of models.
The brand’s story begins not with a royal appointment, but with a master silversmith named George Wickes in 1735. This legacy of excellence led to the company’s most significant milestone in 1843, when Queen Victoria appointed Garrard as the very first official Crown Jeweller. This was no small task; it meant being responsible for the upkeep and creation of many new pieces for the Royal Family. This exacting standard was visible in their work on some of the world’s most famous jewels, including the setting of the magnificent Cullinan I and II diamonds into the Sovereign’s Sceptre and the Imperial State Crown. This level of meticulous craftsmanship was naturally carried over into every timepiece they created.
Garrard Watches
While Garrard’s primary focus was always on jewellery and silverware, they produced a number of exquisite watches, particularly in the mid-20th century. Many vintage Garrard watches you might find today were not sold in a storefront but were instead presentation pieces, awarded to employees for long service by major British companies. These watches often feature a clean, minimalist aesthetic, with classic dial layouts and reliable hand-wound or automatic movements sourced from reputable Swiss manufacturers.
It’s this heritage that makes vintage Garrard watches so special to collectors and enthusiasts alike. They represent a fascinating intersection of two worlds: the regal splendor of a Crown Jeweller and the mechanical integrity of a fine timepiece. While Garrard ceased selling timepieces many years ago to focus on its core jewellery business, these watches continue to be cherished heirlooms. For a watch that combines impeccable craftsmanship with a direct link to British royal history, a vintage Garrard is a true gem. Like any treasured mechanical watch, it requires expert care to ensure it continues to tell its remarkable story for generations to come.
We’re always delighted to work on a Garrard watch here at WE Clark Watch Repairs. Over the years we’ve worked on hundreds of Garrard watches – both mechanical and quartz (including this one we did a previous case study on). As Garrard no longer support repair of their watches, we are more than happy to step in and help. Do get in touch if you have a watch in need of repair.
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