Luxury is more than just aesthetics—it’s about legacy, craftsmanship, and lasting value. Few understand this better than Cherokee County’s Jim Hughes, co-founder of Heise & Hughes Fine Jewelry. Jim partners with Berlin-based Ronnie Heise, whose decades of experience in fine jewelry and luxury watches bring unparalleled expertise to H&H Fine Jewelry. With exclusive North American rights to Askania watches and direct access to master jewelers and diamond dealers, H&H Fine Jewelry stands out through quality, exclusivity, and heritage. In this exclusive Q&A, Jim shares his expertise on fine jewelry as an investment, shifting luxury trends, and how craftsmanship ensures high-end purchases become lasting assets—more than just luxury, but timeless heirlooms.
Q: How did you become inspired to create H&H Fine Jewelry?
A: Ronnie and I first met in 1993 while I served in the US Army in the Berlin Brigade. We lost touch for 27 years. When we reconnected, Ronnie had a credible diamond and jewelry business foundation from first-hand mining in Sierra Leone, sourcing some of the world's finest gemstones. He had extensive experience, from cutting and polishing rough stones to designing exquisite, high-end pieces. Seeing his expertise, I encouraged him to expand into the North American market, leveraging his full capabilities. That started H&H Fine Jewelry, a brand rooted in craftsmanship, precision, and luxury. Our mission is to create timeless pieces with sentimental and financial value.
Q: What sets your jewelry and watches apart as investments rather than just luxury purchases?
A: Gold and diamonds have always been assets that retain and grow in value. Gold, a rare earth mineral, has seen consistent price appreciation, making it a safe long-term investment. Similarly, high-quality diamonds appreciate over time due to their rarity and demand. Unlike mass-produced jewelry that may depreciate, our pieces are crafted with the finest materials and attention to detail, ensuring lasting value. The exclusivity and craftsmanship of our watches and jewelry make them not just purchases, but investments that can be passed down for generations.
Q: What trends are you seeing in luxury jewelry and watches?
A: We are seeing a rise in demand for one-of-a-kind, highly crafted pieces. Consumers want unique designs that tell a story, rather than just a brand name. Our collections range from lifestyle and entertainment-inspired pieces to high-end, athletic designs, ensuring that each item is meaningful and valuable. Additionally, heritage and craftsmanship drive purchasing decisions, making quality and exclusivity more critical than ever.
Q: What makes Askania watches unique, and why did you secure exclusive North American rights?
A: Askania has a deep history rooted in German precision and innovation. Founded in 1871, the brand has been a leader in precision instruments, aviation, and maritime technology. Our watches are hand-assembled in Berlin, featuring Swiss automatic movements, sapphire glass, and premium leather. Each model carries a story—from the Bremen, named after the first aircraft to make a transatlantic flight, to the Templehof, inspired by Berlin’s first major airport. Unlike mass-produced watches, Askania timepieces are crafted in small batches, maintaining their exclusivity and value as collector’s items.
Q: Are you planning to open a storefront, or will your brand remain exclusive?
A: For now, H&H Fine Jewelry operates through private and public events, ensuring exclusivity. We focus on curated, high-end experiences where clients can see and feel the craftsmanship of our pieces in a personalized setting. This model allows us to maintain a direct relationship with collectors and investors, ensuring they understand the legacy and quality behind each purchase. Rather than mass-market sales, we are committed to limiting our offerings, enhancing their long-term investment potential.
Q: What advice would you give someone looking to invest in fine jewelry or watches?
A: Always consider the material and craftsmanship. Gold and high-quality diamonds are the safest bets for appreciation, as their value remains steady. Avoid synthetic stones, as they hold no resale value. Investing in brands with a proven history, like Askania, which carries legacy and exclusivity, is also essential. Additionally, rare, limited-edition pieces from reputable brands often see the highest appreciation in value, making them a smart choice for collectors.
Q: How does storytelling enhance the value of your watches and jewelry?
A: A timepiece or a piece of fine jewelry is more than just an accessory—it’s a story waiting to be told. Each Askania watch is inspired by history, from aviation pioneers to historic events. Similarly, our fine jewelry collections reflect craftsmanship, personal expression, and timeless elegance. Owning a piece with a rich narrative and heritage makes it even more desirable in the luxury market. Whether a custom-designed pendant or a limited-edition Askania pilot watch, the story behind the piece adds sentimental and investment value, making it a true heirloom.
Luxury as an Investment: Key Considerations
Investing in fine jewelry and luxury watches goes beyond mere aesthetics—it’s about securing assets that grow in value. Whether you are looking to purchase a piece for its beauty or its financial potential, here are key factors to consider:
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Material Matters: Opt for real gold and high-quality diamonds. These natural resources retain and often appreciate in value over time, making them a reliable investment.
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Brand Prestige: Established brands with a legacy of craftsmanship tend to hold their value better than mass-produced alternatives.
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Limited Availability: The rarer the piece, the more desirable it becomes in the resale market. Exclusive, one-of-a-kind designs tend to appreciate faster.
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Handcrafted Excellence: Mass-produced items lack the exclusivity and meticulous craftsmanship of hand-assembled, high-precision pieces. Attention to detail increases both longevity and market value.
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Historical Relevance: Watches and jewelry tied to significant historical moments or crafted by renowned designers tend to see higher appreciation rates.
For those looking to invest wisely, fine jewelry and luxury watches offer not just status but a tangible, lasting financial asset that stands the test of time.
True luxury is more than style—it’s an investment in history, craftsmanship, and timeless value. – Jim Hughes