LONDON.- S.J. Phillips, one of the oldest, family-owned antique jewellery, silver and precious objects businesses in the United Kingdom is moving from its iconic London premises, 139 New Bond Street after nearly 150 years on New Bond Street.

As one door closes, however, another door opens. S.J. Phillips, which has been described as “legendary….,” “possibly the most important antique jewellery store in the world….”, “one of London’s best-loved shops….”, is moving around the corner to an equally prestigious street in London’s Mayfair.

From the new premises on the second floor of 26 Bruton Street, S.J. Phillips will continue to offer the most ethereal range of antique jewellery and objets de vertu for which they are internationally renowned. The move will be seamless and S.J. Phillips at 26 Bruton Street will be open to clients and visitors in the latter half of February 2017.

Mr Solomon Joel Phillips opened his first shop on Regent Street in 1869, moving to New Bond Street four years later. The company has remained in the same family. Today it is managed by S.J. Phillips’ great-grandsons, Nicolas and Jonathan Norton, together with their cousin Francis Norton. The present building at 139 New Bond Street was leased in 1966 and S.J. Phillips has been based there ever since. The head lease was purchased in October 1987 and the freehold was acquired on December 17, 2009.

Nicolas Norton, explains: “Our building on one of London’s most prestigious streets was becoming ever more valuable, and therefore, as a family we decided that now was an appropriate moment to move premises. In addition, due to the fact that the new location is smaller than our New Bond Street shop, we will focus marginally less on silver and concentrate more on jewellery and objets de vertu.”

From the outset S.J. Phillips has enjoyed the reputation of dealing exclusively in objects of superlative quality and beauty, many often with royal or distinguished provenance. Over the past century some of the most historically important jewels, together with silver masterpieces and precious objects, have passed through the hands of S.J. Phillips. Many are now in major international museums including the Victoria & Albert Museum, the British Museum, the Louvre, the Museum of Fine Arts Boston to name but a few.

Nicolas Norton said: “It has always been our policy to buy only the most exquisite and rarest of antique pieces. Our criteria are, first and foremost, quality followed by desirability.”

The range of jewellery on offer is both dazzling and inspirational. There are fabulous examples of antique jewels dating from the 18th century, and even earlier. These include not only sumptuous pieces adorned with precious stones, but also outstanding examples of 18th century costume jewellery set with paste or foiled glass. “There is something so elegant, refined and captivating about 18th century jewellery,” said Nicolas. “Sadly fewer people appreciate their beauty these days. That said there are always those who buck the trend and collect jewellery for its uniqueness and history, as opposed to because it is fashionable.”

Jewellery made in the 1920s and 30s by Cartier remains another firm favourite. The reason being says Nicolas: “Cartier reigned supreme in the first half of the 20th century. Not only did it break boundaries in terms of design, the craftsmanship was unsurpassed. These pieces continue to be extremely popular and increasingly sought-after today.”

A perfect example is a superb pair of 1920s Cartier diamond bracelets, which can be fitted together to make a stunning choker. A previous owner was the American socialite and heiress, Mrs Evalyn Walsh Mclean (1886-1947) whose exceptional collection of gemstones and jewellery also included the famous Hope diamond.

It is precisely for this outstanding array of singular treasures that members of royal and aristocratic families, captains of industry, politicians, famous actors and actresses, musicians and artists, as well as extremely wealthy individuals who shun the spotlight, all flock to S.J. Phillips in search of truly exceptional gems, iconic silver and precious objects.

“Many of our customers have been buying from us for decades and some even for generations. We like to think we offer a very special, discreet personal service” says Nicolas. “In fact our new premises, on the second floor will offer our customers increased exclusivity, together with additional privacy and confidentiality.

“S.J. Phillips will continue to be the place to go for those wishing to purchase unique jewels and precious of objects, as well a very select number of silver masterpieces by the greatest silversmiths. We are looking forward to celebrating our 150th anniversary in 2019”.