When lifelong retailers Alex and Bev Simmons were looking around for a neighborhood that reminded of them of old Toronto, they realized that South Bayview had a lot of what they were looking for. The genial couple decided to apply for adoption here and, from all appearances, they seem to be well on their way to becoming part of the family. Their business, Dolly Jewellers, at 1699 Bayview Ave. was started by Bev’s dad, Ned Austin, back in 1946. His full-service neighborhood jewellery and giftware store was a landmark on Weston Road for decades. For the past 20 plus years, Alex and Bev have carried on the family tradition. Now in the bright and wide storefront on Bayview opposite Hillsdale Ave. the couple provide a warm welcome and an array of services that can only originate with a husband and wife team as steeped in their craft as these two are.
Working hard to know local residents
“We offer full repair services including gold and silver jewellery, clocks and watches” says Alex. And the shop stocks a full line of jewellery, beautifully refurbished estate and vintage items as well as watches, clocks, giftware and collectibles for all ages. The couple are working hard to get to know local residents. “We would like to meet many more of our new neighbours and their friends,” says Alex “but we appreciate that it may take a while.” In the meantime Alex and Bev are greatly encouraged by the many people who have come in. Dolly Jewellers has a monthly draw which may be entered in-store or online at www.dollyjewellers.com. It’s worth a visit to Dolly’s just to meet Bev and Alex and their resident pooches Jessie and Lola.
