In 1851, the Derbyshire town of Wirksworth saw the doors of William Evans' Jewellers open for the first time. Proudly advertising William's skills as a jeweller and watchmaker, the small store became synonymous with high quality and craftsmanship. Joined by his son, Charles, who had recently completed his training as a refractionist (now known as an Optician), William eventually moved the business, now known as W.Evans & Son Jewellers, to the newly built premises on Matlock's Dale Road, where it continued to thrive, becoming a reputable cornerstone of the community, with William establishing a reputation as a master watchmaker and creating time keeping instruments which can still be found in store today.
After the Death of Willian Evans Charles took over the business, insured that his father’s legacy would continue and to this day W Evans & Son still trades from the Dale Road store.
Closed briefly during the Second World War, W. Evans & Son was reopened as a limited company in 1947 with a flourishing trade, specialising in the servicing and selling of fine jewellery and timepieces. After the death of C.W. Evans in 1956, the business was handed down to his nephew, Norman Goward, a jeweller with over 30 years experience in the workshop, and his wife, Sheila. He was soon joined by his son, David, a qualified Fellow of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain with a RetailJewellers Diploma. David became Managing Director in 1977 when his father retired and went on to become Chairman in 1985 a position he carried out until recently.
With over 167 years of history, the business continues to offer the precise craftsmanship and excellent service that has become its trademark. Our knowledgeable staff and in store Gem-A Trained specialists work passionately to offer a personalised service to our customers. Still trading from Dale Road, the shop retains its original Victorian windows and interior fittings to provide its customers with the same experience and feel it always has. As well as fine Jewellery sales W. Evans & Son offer a comprehensive list of watch and jewellery repair, servicing and restoration.