The History of Boucheron
Who is Boucheron?
In the world of antique jewellery, Boucheron is a highly regarded brand who are held in high esteem along with Tiffany, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Cartier. Boucheron are known for their bold, freestyle pieces, which are highly sought after in the antique and pre-owned jewellery and watch market.
What is the history of Boucheron?
The House of Boucheron is a French family dynasty founded by Frederic Boucheron in 1858. When they originally opened their first store in the Galerie de Valois in Paris, they only sold jewellery made by other makers. In 1866, a good 8 years later, Boucheron opened their first workshop, winning a gold medal for design the following year.
Boucheron continued to go from strength to strength, opening a store in Moscow in 1893, which they subsequently moved to Saint Petersburg in 1911. In 1903, they opened a store in London, and an office in New York. More store openings followed in Japan in 1973, Shanghai Dubai in 2005, and Hong Kong Kuala Lumpur in 2006.
Boucheron Reflet Watches
In 1947, Boucheron created the Reflet watch which is renowned for its elegantly simple lines curved rectangular casing that reflects light. The slide fasteners interchangeable strap meant that the appearance can be changed, making the Boucheron Reflet watch a unique piece.
Boucheron has always embraced the style of the era with the Reflet watch. They also embraced the style of the Art Deco movement, which has proved to be very popular with women. Their stainless-steel models with replaceable wristband cabochon sapphires are in high demand in the antique watch market.
Boucheron in Modern Times
Unlike many jewellery house watchmakers of the past, Boucheron has navigated the modern world well. This is mainly due to smart hiring decisions, focus on customer service, and most importantly, their internet sales.
Boucheron now have 34 boutiques worldwide, and have had a successful e-commerce business since 2007. In 2011, the company appointed Claire Choisne as Creative Director, and they saw their total sales reach €50 million in the same year.
What is Boucheron Jewellery Worth?
Many retail customers own Boucheron pieces, such as the Reflet watch, from the 1920s, and market for these vintage pieces remains strong today. The value of your Boucheron piece depends on many factors including the age, condition, material, gemstones provenance.
Pre-owned Designer Jewellery at Suttons & Robertons
S&R are renowned for their great selection of pre-owned antique, vintage, designer and luxury jewellery from world leading brands such as Cartier, Boodles, Vera Wang, Tiffany, DeBeers, Gucci and more. Discover pre-owned designer jewellery for men and women at S&R London Jewellers.
Discover the original article here: www.suttonsandrobertsons.com/articles/the-history-of-boucheron/