Tributes to PJ Watson founder

Peter had a long and happy retirement of 25 years. Following the death of Gwen, his first wife, he remarried and recently celebrated a second silver wedding anniversary with his wife Janet. He kept in touch with the industry he loved, taking a keen interest in both of his sons as they developed their respective jewellery businesses. Vivian and his son John continue to run PJ Watson Ltd (now in its 46th year), while Philip and his son James run Anna James Ltd (now in its 24th year). They are all grateful to him for introducing them to such a wonderful trade. Peter Watson began his career in the jewellery trade in the 1940s, working for an Antwerp-based company, selling polished diamonds to manufacturing jewellers in the UK. His mother, Constance, was already a practising gemmologist (trained under the watchful eye of the famous Robert Webster). Peter's reputation in Hatton Garden and his in-depth knowledge of the diamond trade led him into a partnership and the formation of the Eton Jewellery Co. As his two sons, Vivian and Philip, were soon to be finishing their education, the time was right to then establish the family firm of PJ Watson Ltd in September 1966. His passion for rare gems distinguished his collections and earned the company much recognition. The professionalism that was his personal hallmark has inspired the current and succeeding generations to follow his example. Vivian, Philip, John and James wish to express to their customers, suppliers and friends in the trade sincere thanks for their kind and generous support. "We all share in this sad loss of a great businessman, a gentleman, a friend, and a wonderful father and grandfather."