For 53 years, Pearsons Jewellers was more than just a shop on Military Road in Neutral Bay. It was a cornerstone of the community. Known for its expert watch repairs and fine jewellery, the store has touched the lives of countless locals. But now, after five decades of dedication, the couple behind the business, Nick and Louise Pearson, have made the difficult decision to close shop.
As the sign on the window announces its “closing down” sale, the memories of the many customers who have walked through Pearsons’ door flood in. From the loyal regulars who came in for repairs on their treasured timepieces to those seeking the perfect engagement ring or gift for a loved one, the shop was always buzzing with life.
A Shop Built on Trust and Dedication
The story of Pearsons Jewellers begins in 1972, when Swiss-trained watchmaker John Baumann opened the business as Baumann Jewellers. With a reputation for quality and reliability, the shop quickly became a trusted destination for Neutral Bay locals.
In 1989, Nick Pearson, a young watchmaker with a second-generation legacy, joined the business. Trained by his father Ron, Nick brought a passion for craftsmanship and a strong work ethic to the team.
By 2000, the two watchmakers formed a partnership, and the business became known as Pearsons Jewellers. John Baumann retired in 2006, leaving the business in Nick and Louise’s hands. Over the years, Louise helped expand the shop’s offerings, introducing more jewelry options while Nick continued to hone his skills in watch repair.
The business grew, with Pearsons becoming a fixture in the local community. In 2007, the shop was refurbished, giving it a fresh look and an expanded selection of fine jewellery and timepieces. By the time Pearsons Jewellers celebrated its 40th anniversary in 2012, the business was well-established, known for its exceptional service and commitment to quality.
The Strain of Success
However, success often comes with its own challenges. In recent years, demand for repairs increased, especially after other nearby watchmakers closed their doors. As business boomed, Nick and Louise found themselves working harder than ever to keep up with the demand. Nick, who often worked 12 to 15-hour days, was managing the workload of several watchmakers by himself. Even though they had a skilled team member at one point, the shop had struggled to find a replacement for her after she left.
Nick and Louise’s commitment to their customers never wavered. Despite the exhaustion and the long daily commute from Winston Hills, Nick remained dedicated to his craft, working well into the evenings. Louise, too, played a crucial role in the business, overseeing the jewellery side and ensuring everything ran smoothly. But despite their best efforts, the reality of their situation was undeniable.
A New Chapter
Now, with a sense of relief and anticipation, the Pearsons are preparing to close the shop’s physical doors for the final time this July. But the story isn’t over. The couple plans to continue their watch repair business from home, offering a mail-in service for their loyal customers. It’s a bittersweet end to an era, but Nick and Louise are looking forward to slowing down after years of hard work.
For those who have visited Pearsons Jewellers over the years, the closing down sale offers a chance to take home a final piece of the store’s legacy. With discounts of 25-50% off marked prices, long-time customers can stock up on jewellery and mementoes of a place that has been part of their lives for so long.
While the physical store may be closing, the memories of Pearsons Jewellers will continue to live on in the hearts of the Neutral Bay community—a business built on trust, expertise, and a commitment to the people it served for over five decades.
Published 12-June-2025