About Us
In the late 1800s, a young talent emerged in North Shields, England - Robert Robson. With a passion for precision and mechanics, he refined his craft in the intricate art of mechanical watchmaking under the prestigious banner of Wilson and Gillie. Crafting chronometers, essential instruments for determining longitude at sea, Robert's skills were tested against the demanding standards of nautical navigation, requiring impeccable timekeeping and adaptability to harsh climates. It was here that the foundations of his expertise were laid, providing him with the ideal training ground to blossom into a skilled watchmaker.
In 1903, Robert set sail for new horizons, landing in Gulfport, Mississippi, where he applied his craft at J.D. Radford Jewelry for three fruitful years. His journey then led him to Live Oak, Florida, where fate intertwined his path with that of Hattie Florence Larsen, his cherished bride. Together, they embarked on a westward odyssey, traversing the landscapes of Baton Rouge, Lake Charles, and finally settling in Baytown in 1926, drawn by the allure of its burgeoning oilfields.
Baytown, with its promise of opportunity, initially tested the resolve of the Robson family. Robert braved the unknown alone for six arduous months, tirelessly seeking suitable shelter amidst the rapid economic expansion. Yet, perseverance prevailed, and two years later, Robson's Jewelry store proudly opened its doors in the historic Brunson Building, marking the genesis of a legacy.
Over the ensuing decades, Robson's Jewelry flourished, symbolizing a beacon of quality and service in the heart of Baytown. The family's unwavering commitment to excellence permeated every facet of their business, with Robert's five children actively participating in its operations. Under their guidance, the store became synonymous with expert jewelry and watch repair services, characterized by a warm and professional demeanor that endeared them to the community.
In times of adversity, Robson's Jewelry stood resolute, navigating through the tumultuous years of war with fortitude. Their dedication was recognized when the store was appointed as the official servicing site for railroad watches, vital instruments that mirrored the precision of the marine chronometers Robert had mastered in his youth. In an era where every second counted, the meticulous craftsmanship of Robson's ensured the smooth operation of the railroad industry, a lifeline for the nation's economy.
Through the ages, the legacy of Robert Robson and his family endured, a testament to the enduring values of diligence, craftsmanship, and unwavering dedication. In the annals of Baytown's history, Robson's Jewelry stood as a timeless symbol of excellence, its story woven into the fabric of the community it proudly served.
The years flew by, and so did Robson's Jewelry, moving to bigger places like a plant reaching for the sky, growing and thriving. The Robson fam? They were like a beautiful orchestra, each member playing a note for the success of their amazing store. Robert's kids? Oh boy, they were gems in their own right! Learning to fix things up, shining with their skills, and serving customers with smiles that could melt icebergs. Through the tough times of the Great Depression and the crazy days of war, Robson's Jewelry stood strong. And guess what? During the war, their store was the chosen spot for railroad watches – these weren't your usual timekeepers, they were like the heroes of being right on time, making sure the economy's heart ticked smoothly. Generations kept the story going, each one passing on the love and passion. Grace and Norman, like a power couple, rocked it from 1942 to 1981, then Norman Robson Hargrave took over and led the way until 2015. And guess what? The story doesn't end there! Today, Paul Douglas Robson Hargrave keeps the tale alive, making sure the magic never fades.
The 4th generation is here, and let me tell you, they're not just about jewelry – they're all about bling that'll make you go "wow!" and customer service that's like a parade in your honor every time you show up. These guys practically have a PhD in loving all things sparkly and amazing. We don't just talk the talk; we walk the walk. Our crew includes some real smarty-pants, certified by DCA & GIA.
And guess what? We've got a master jeweler and a watch wizard who can make your treasures shine brighter than the sun. So, come on in to Robson's, where history, heart, and diamonds join in a dance of pure joy. Smiles are as real as your favorite snack, each piece of jewelry is like a masterpiece, and every customer leaves feeling like they've struck gold. And here's a heads-up, folks: 2026's gonna be huge! It's our 100th birthday, and we're celebrating a century of time, love, and awesomeness. Robson's Jewelry is still the star of this fantastic adventure, shining as bright as ever!