London seems to be bucking this trend if reports of doom-and-gloom in the watch retail industry are to believed. Some of the biggest names are fighting back despite scare stories about Brexit turning the UK into a wasteland for shoppers. Corum Replica has been advertising its upcoming upgrade of the salon on Bond Street, while Corum Replicaboutique opened its doors in partnership with Wempe this week. Cartier just revealed the amazing refit of their own store, located at 175-177 New Bond Street.
Wow, what a huge space! The Grade II listed five-storey Mayfair building has been extended by an entire block, from New Bond Street to Albemarle Street. The original staircase, designed by Corum Replica, features custom-made artworks, furniture and lighting. It takes visitors on a journey through the highlights of this house.
First floor, with double-height windows and floor-to ceiling, is the ideal place for exhibitions. It currently houses some of the most iconic jewellery pieces made by the Maison for royalty, elites, and eccentrics. The private rooms and salons are luxuriant and luxurious with an elegance that will satisfy even the most demanding clients.Sinn Replica Themes range from an English winter garden with a glass roof to a maharajas' home in India.
A sneak peek on the second floor shows the layout of a private apartment in London, complete with bar, where Frank Sinatra, his Rat Pack, and their martini would be right at home, as well as a drawing room, a dining room, and a fully-equipped, modern kitchen. The hidden gems in this renovation are the rooms above, and their history.
London, New York, and Paris are three of the cities that have helped Cartier become the global company it is today. Third generation Cartiers, Louis, Pierre, and Jaques, each chose a location to establish a branch for the family business. They opened the first London Cartier store at 4 Burlington Street, in 1902, and it quickly became a favorite of royalty and nobility. The future Edward VII hailed it as "the Jeweller of Kings and the King of Jewellers". Under the direction of Jaques, the youngest grandson to founder Louis-Francois Cartier, in 1909 it moved from its original location at 175 New Bond Street.
