Irene Steffens Colin Miller/Strauss Peyton

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With a passion for gems and precious stones, Rachel (above) and Ella Ilyashov are very much a part of their family business, Timekeepers. They specialize in all aspects of fine jewelry, clocks and watches.  Each piece receives its own special attention under their “watchful eyes.” Trained in the business from youth, Rachel and Ella have studied extensively, becoming gemologists. Rachel holds a specialty in hand engraving and enjoys the artistic side of the business. She is drawn to designing jewelry, and she loves each opportunity to hand engrave precious items. Having studied with a master engraver for three months in Austria, Rachel learned the fine techniques she needs to fulfill requests for engraving customers’ pieces using scroll. Drawing out the desired design with attention to each detail, she carefully scribes it onto an item and then engraves it with delicate precision, skill and beauty. Hand engraving allows for more flexibility and the outcome is deeper, richer and more authentic. And it’s that precise result that brings happiness to Rachel, her family and Timekeepers’ customers.
Immigrating to America from Russia in 1979 with daughters Rachel and Ella, Semyon and Alina Ilyashov sought out their dream of a lifetime. Semyon, an apprentice for a well-known clock maker in Russia, took on as much trade work as possible and opened his first shop in 1981. Fast forward 27 years and you’ll find a thriving family-owned business – a “jewel” in the city. Their two shops are dedicated to vintage and pre-owned Rolex watches, clocks and jewelry. Specializing in one-of-a-kind items, the talented family members also specialize in “the best service.” Each person who walks into the store becomes “a good friend – like a member of the family,” says Semyon, expressing the family’s heartfelt sentiments.