Sams Watchmaker Jeweller changed its name on June 30. The company is predominantly known for its Classique watch brand, which founder Sam Der Bedrossian designed and started distributing throughout Australia – a few years after he established the company in 1967.
From its initial beginnings as a watch assembler, Sams Watchmaker Jeweller developed into a watch wholesaler and is now looking to expand into jewellery.
His son Steve Der Bedrossian, who is now manager of the business, said the repositioning is vital to keep up with the changing needs of retailers.
Der Bedrossian said many retailers are currently looking to save time and source a wider array of product from a smaller pool of suppliers. “We wanted to establish ourselves as a group that offers something more than watches. It has been on the cards to change the company’s identity and the fresh company name indicates new ideas and diversified offerings,” he said.
Der Bedrossian said the company’s decision to expand its offerings was intended to help it tap into the profitable jewellery sector. “Now I can look to expanding my stockist base to include jewellery stores that don’t carry watches.”
Besides taking on the distribution of Tresor Paris and RM Williams’ watches, Sams Group Australia will also distribute the charity-supporting one-off ‘Peace Movement’ watch, as well as fancy coloured diamonds and ring mounts.
Tresor Paris is a London-based brand that has not previously been distributed in Australia. Der Bedrossian said he had tested the waters by launching Tresor Paris product in five select retail stores to an overall positive response from consumers.
Sams Group Australia is set to launch its new branded product at the upcoming JAA International Jewellery Fair in Sydney.
More reading:
Classique strengthens position in America
More information:
Sams Watchmaker Jeweller