Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Oxford's Premier Jewellery & Watch Services Since 1946
Established in 1946, John Gowing has served Oxford as a family-run independent jeweller and watch specialist. With over 100 years of collective experience, our reputation is built on meticulous attention to detail, elegance, and innovation. We offer comprehensive services including vintage watch restoration, jewellery repairs, probate valuations, and bespoke design. Our in-house probate valuations are completed within a working week, insured through T.H.March, and conducted by John Gowing, a qualified watchmaker with 46 years of industry expertise. We stock exclusive brands like Ti Sento and Trollbeads, alongside pre-owned luxury watches from Rolex and Omega.Our team prioritises transparency, offering part-exchange services and expert advice on remodelling heirloom pieces. As members of the National Association of Jewellers and The Guild of Master Craftsmen, we uphold rigorous professional standards. Our Oxford store provides a curated selection of diamond jewellery, Harry Potter-themed pieces, and Hot Diamonds collections. We combine traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to ensure every client receives tailored, trustworthy service. Our commitment to quality is reflected in our five-star reviews, highlighting exceptional customer experiences and stunning bespoke creations.
Services
Watch Restoration
Jewellery Repairs
Probate Valuation
Bespoke Design
Part Exchange
Diamond Rings
Vintage Watch Sales
Pearl Re-threading
Insurance Valuation
Trollbeads Specialist
Details
- Year established: 1946
Highlights and features
- We have over 70 years of experience serving Oxford's jewellery needs.
- Our bespoke design service creates custom engagement rings and remodelling projects.
- In-house probate valuations completed within a working week with full insurance coverage.
- Family-run business combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques.
- Stockists of exclusive brands including Trollbeads, Ti Sento, and Hot Diamonds.
Associations and certifications
- National Association of Jewellers
- The Guild of Master Craftsmen
What people say
Stunning bespoke engagement ring
Perfect bespoke engagement ring
Countless compliments
Easy process
Beautiful ring
Services
Watch Restoration
We restore vintage and antique watches, servicing movements and repairing cases, dials, and hands. Our experts source or fabricate replacement parts while preserving sentimental value. Clients receive professional advice on viability and value assessment, ensuring historically significant timepieces are maintained to the highest standards.
Jewellery Repairs
Our specialists handle all precious jewellery repairs, from simple ring alterations to complex remodelling projects. We inspect and repair clasps, rethread pearls, and ensure stone security. With expertise in both traditional and modern techniques, we restore functionality and beauty to cherished pieces while maintaining their original integrity.
Probate Valuation
We provide professional in-house probate valuations completed within a working week. Items remain securely stored in insurance-approved safes and are insured through T.H.March. Our valuations, conducted by experienced jeweller John Gowing, distinguish between items of genuine value and those with sentimental significance, ensuring accurate estate assessments.
Bespoke Design
Our bespoke service creates custom engagement rings and remodelling projects tailored to individual preferences. Clients collaborate with our designers to transform ideas into unique pieces, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques. We specialise in incorporating heirloom stones into contemporary designs for truly personal creations.
Part Exchange
We offer part-exchange services for watches and jewellery in person at our Oxford store. For remote clients, items can be sent via Royal Mail Special Delivery. We provide fair offers with no obligation, returning unaccepted items at our expense. This service allows clients to upgrade pieces while maintaining value from their existing collections.
People
John Gowing
Founder & Master Jeweller
With 46 years of industry experience, John Gowing established the business in 1946. He personally oversees probate valuations and complex restoration projects, combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques to maintain the highest standards of excellence.
Annie
Bespoke Designer
Specialising in custom engagement rings, Annie collaborates with clients to create unique designs. Her expertise in translating personal stories into wearable art has earned recognition for the business's exceptional bespoke service and attention to detail.
Questions
What watch brands do you service and sell?
We service all watch brands and stock pre-owned Rolex, Omega, and Tag-Heuer models. Our new collection includes Michel Herbelin, Tissot, and Mondaine Swiss Railway watches.
Can you value jewellery for probate purposes?
Yes, we provide professional in-house probate valuations completed within a working week, with items insured through T.H.March during assessment.
Do you offer bespoke jewellery design?
Our bespoke service creates custom engagement rings and remodelling projects, allowing clients to incorporate heirloom stones into new designs.
What payment methods do you accept?
We accept major credit/debit cards and contactless payments in-store. Bank transfers are available for larger purchases.
Are your jewellery repairs guaranteed?
All repairs come with a 12-month warranty covering workmanship, with parts replaced during restoration guaranteed for six months.
Reviews (4)
Georgie C.
Jan 05, 2022
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Took a necklace in and asked for the clasp to be replaced having broken it a few days prior. I thought the service was quick and the price charged was reasonable. However, two or three weeks later I found out exactly why the service was so quick - the clasp broke again and this time I took the necklace to another jeweller who informed me that the clasp had never been replaced - simply pushed back together with pliers! I very nearly lost a very sentimental necklace thanks to this jeweller. I could have very easily pushed the clasp back together myself at home and this was NOT what I requested in
Jez T.
Oct 30, 2021
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Visited the shop with my partner today. The service was exemplary and all the staff were friendly and efficient, even remembering the last time we visited! For a small shop they have a large selection of watches and jewellery, and both my partner and I were very pleased with our purchases. Definitely a 5 star experience and worth a visit.
Natasha Taylor
Aug 01, 2021
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We could not have asked for a more delightful experience at John Gowing! The staff were incredibly professional, encouraging and helpful! I would recommend this Jewllers to everyone.
S. Marcus
Jul 04, 2021
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I have always dealt directly with Cartier to have my watch serviced or have the battery replaced. However, having recently read some worrying comments about the actual service being provided for a sizeable sum, I researched local jewellers. I am so happy that I did. John Gowing's is that rare treasure of an 'old-school' jeweller with an experienced professional on-site. For half the price, I had my battery replaced within a couple of hours as opposed to the several weeks quoted by Cartier. I also benefited from an informative conversation with Mr. Gowing (a true professional) regarding how often
