Watkins Jewelers, Inc.

Originally located in the Old Nottoway Theater building, Watkins Jewelers was founded in 1951 by A. Winston Watkins, who purchased Stone Jewelers, an ongoing business since 1936. Winston built a business based on expertise, service, and trust. Personal attention to customers while providing a quality product at a fair price proved to be a successful philosophy. This philosophy has continued with the second and third generation. Today, Watkins Jewelers remains a family-owned business. Second generation Tom Watkins manages the operation while Polly, Tom’s wife, handles the accounting responsibilities. Sons Tate and Will joined the business after college. Tate, a Hampden-Sydney College graduate, who has also completed courses with the Gemological Institute of America, is an Accredited Jewelry Professional. Will, a graduate of Longwood University, has completed courses at Jeweler’s school in repair and stone setting. Three more long-term employees complete the dedicated staff: Kathy McGraw (Floor Manager and sales associate), and Matt Mohr (Bench Jeweler, who also completed courses at Jeweler’s school).