The Journal
Notes from the bench.
Stories on diamonds and design, buying guides for pre-owned Rolex, and the small lessons that come from three generations behind the same counter.
AllRolex San DiegoSan Diego Engagement RingsSan Diego Jewelry BuyerTiffany & Co. TutorialSan Diego Wedding RingsTypes and Brands of Jewelery
San Diego Engagement Rings · 2 min read
Don’t Overspend on an Engagement Ring
Encouragement not to spend more than you should on an engagement ring.
September 2024
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
How to Keep Your Rolex in Great Shape
Quick tips for keeping your pre-owned Rolex in top working order.
September 2024
San Diego Engagement Rings · 2 min read
The Diamond Solitaire, the Classic Engagement Ring
The solitaire is a classic, elegant style beloved for generations.
September 2024
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
A Few Reasons to Buy a Pre-Owned Rolex
Why a carefully chosen pre-owned Rolex can offer better value, more character, and stronger long-term potential than buying new.
September 2024
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Rolex Repair: How to Keep Your Timepiece in Tip-Top Shape
Practical guidance on servicing, cleaning, repairing and storing your Rolex so it keeps running accurately for generations to come.
March 2023
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
Rolex Explorer History
From Everest to modern city streets, the story of how a rugged 1953 tool watch evolved into one of Rolex's most enduring icons.
February 2023
· 2 min read
How To Choose The Right San Diego Jeweler
A practical checklist — research, budget, quality, selection, service and reputation — for finding a San Diego jeweler you can trust.
February 2023
· 2 min read
Vintage Engagement Rings 101
A guide to the eras, telltale details, and quality checks that help you choose a vintage engagement ring you'll treasure for life.
February 2023
· 2 min read
Are Rubies and Sapphires the Same Gemstone?
Why rubies and sapphires share a mineral family yet differ in color, rarity, and value — and what to know before you buy either.
February 2023
· 2 min read
What is a Lab Grown Diamond?
How lab grown diamonds are made, how they compare to mined stones, and what to weigh before choosing one for your jewelry.
February 2023
Rolex San Diego · 2 min read
ROLEX DIAL COLORS
A guide to Rolex's signature dial colors, from timeless black and white to bold greens and rainbow hues, and what each says about your style.
February 2023
San Diego Wedding Rings · 2 min read
How to Find Vendors for Your Wedding
Practical advice for lining up trustworthy wedding vendors, from caterers to photographers, using word-of-mouth and vendor referrals to protect your budget.
November 2022
From our bench to your inbox
A few good notes a month.
New arrivals in the watch case, buying guides, and the occasional story from the counter. No noise — just things worth knowing.
We’ll email you a link to confirm. By confirming you agree to receive occasional emails from Bert Levi Family Jewelers. No spam, and you can unsubscribe anytime.