Watch & Wares — Local services in Orange

This place is an absolute GEM (no pun intended) tucked into charming Old Town Orange. I grew up here and have worked in the industry for over 20 years. I’ve been lucky enough to travel to—and live in—fashion capitals around the world, and I can honestly say this is one of the best stores I’ve ever been to.

They’re incredibly knowledgeable when it comes to high-end pieces, both vintage and modern. From jewelry to handbags (Linh and I instantly bonded over her mini Kelly—we swapped love stories about our favorite vintage finds!), it’s rare to meet someone who not only understands but shares a deep appreciation for this world. Linh was beyond fun to talk to—so stylish, so informed, and her taste is impeccable.

My grandmother bought a ring here years ago, and since then I make it a point to visit whenever I’m back in OC visiting my parents. They repaired an Hermès watch for me with such care and offered very fair pricing. I also brought in some of my own vintage pieces to be tested, and they were so gracious—taking the time to explain everything about gold and gemstones, even helping me understand how to identify key features. As someone planning to go into fine jewelry sales at my vintage store in Kingston, NY, their insight was priceless.

Most recently, I brought in my grandmother’s earrings to be converted from clip-ons to posts, and they did a stunning job. I could have spent all day admiring the beautifully curated cases—every item sparkles with intention. You can tell everything has been hand-picked with love and displayed in a way that just takes your breath away.

Both Linh and William are incredibly kind and offer nothing but the best in quality and service. It’s probably a good thing I don’t live closer—my bank account wouldn’t stand a chance. This store is inspiring, refined, and unforgettable. Absolutely nothing is ordinary—it’s...

I brought an antique turquoise and silver ring from my mom here to be resized (it had been crushed and wasnt even circular anymore). I don't even know if the ring is worth anything but I love it and wanted to be able to wear it because it means a lot to me. This was the third shop I had brought the ring to -- the other two places told me they couldn't fix it. They said the process would damage it further. I was treated very kindly at Watch & Wares. The gentlemen I gave my ring to was welcoming and confident he could fix my ring without damaging it and he was right. In fact, when I told him what they other shops said, he responded with something along the lines of, "Well, I'm sure they honestly didn't know how to fix it, but we sure do!" It turned out beautifully! I was very pleased and it gives me confidence to bring in other old pieces that I want to be...

I went in needing help with getting a loose stone to a setting. After talking with multiple jewelers in the area who couldn't help me, I reached out to Watch and Wares and they told me to come on in and they would see what they could do. Everyone is so nice and knowledgable to work with. The owner William looked at what I brought and mentioned they may need to tweak the setting for the sake of safety of the stone but said they could take care of it, but would get me a formal estimate. John and Linda were prompt and helpful in getting me in and out on my lunch break. I got my estimate back and approved the work and got my piece back the next week. I'm so impressed and it turned out phenomenal. I never imagined it would look so good. Watch and Wares is amazing. 10/10...