Asprey

BRANDS

Asprey was founded in 1781 in Mitcham, South London. It was here that William Asprey established a silk printing business. William’s son Charles and his grandson, also Charles, expanded the business into the metallic arts. In 1841 the elder Charles went into partnership with a London stationer located on Bond Street. In 1847 the Asprey family broke with their partner and moved into 167 New Bond Street, the premises Asprey occupies today.

Throughout the nineteenth century business flourished and another Royal Warrant was granted by the Prince of Wales – later to be crowned Edward VII, who remained an important and enthusiastic client of Asprey. Patronage came not just from the British royal family and aristocracy but foreign royalty and dignitaries who would visit the store while in London. At the time of Edward VII’s funeral an Asprey member of staff remembered “practically all the ruling heads of state were there, and many of them came to Asprey. You might have seen three or four of them at one time.”

During the 20th century Asprey grew considerably as the company acquired new manufacturing facilities and hired the finest silversmiths, goldsmiths, jewelers and watchmakers. Asprey employed the finest craftsmen, including Ernest Betjeman, the father of the distinguished poet John Betjeman, and one of the most highly regarded designers of his day.

In the glamorous 1920s, commissions poured in from around the world. From American millionaires such as J. Pierpont Morgan to potentates such as the Maharajah of Patiala who commissioned a huge teak travelling trunk for each of his wives. Each blue velvet-lined trunk was fitted with solid silver washing and bathing utensils with waterspouts of ornate tiger head. Asprey cigarette cases became collectable amongst young sophisticates who delighted in its modern products, from art deco accessories to travel clocks, safety razors and automatic pencil sharpeners.

Exciting developments continue to take place at Asprey; it continues to celebrate the best in craftsmanship, design and materials to offer its clients objects to treasure. Expert jewelry designers, steeped in Asprey’s individualistic British style, working with the finest gems, have given Asprey its unrivaled reputation. The elegant new Asprey designs represent a continuation of a great tradition, blending experience with a spirit of artistic adventure to take the craft forward.

Products

Site Terms

About

Contact

© 2013 LuxuryBazaar.com - All Rights Reserved.