Lunn’s the Jewellers announced today that they are set to expand their presence in Donegall Place in partnership with Rolex. Lunn’s, a family-owned business, purchased the adjoining building to their luxury shopping destination, Queen’s Arcade, in 2023. The project representing an investment of £5.5 million, will see the current Rolex showroom more than triple its existing footprint to over 200 square metres.
The building at 25-27 Donegall Place is the oldest structure in Donegall Place and the last surviving townhouse dating back to 1791. Plans have been submitted to Belfast City Council for the new scheme. Conservation architects, Consarc have been advising on the development. It is intended that the new showroom will be completed ahead of The Open Championship which returns to Royal Portrush in July 2025 and of which Rolex are Patron and Official Timekeeper.
The new store, which will retain its original entrance in Queen’s Arcade, will significantly increase its frontage on Donegall Place. It has been designed to an exacting specification by the Rolex Design Team. It features marble flooring, a fluted marble wall, inspired by Rolex’s famous fluted bezel, unique stucco artwork, walnut wood panelling and bespoke Rolex furniture.
The original Rolex showroom at Queen’s Arcade opened in July 2019 just ahead of the 148th Open Championship held at Royal Portrush.
John Lunn, Managing Director of Lunn’s Jewellers, said: “We are delighted to announce this exciting new project with our partners Rolex. It has been under wraps for many months, and we are thrilled to be able to share the news and spectacular images. The new space will allow us to offer our clients an even better experience, fully immersed in the Rolex brand with exceptional hospitality and service. Clients will have the opportunity to view the Rolex range in the very best environment that is on a standard with the world’s leading shopping destinations.”
Richard de Leyser, Managing Director, Rolex UK, said: “Lunn’s have been a loyal and committed partner to Rolex and in light of their achievements with Queen’s Arcade, we look forward to growing this relationship with the expansion into Donegall Place. As a result, the exceptional customer service that Lunn’s provides to the Rolex community in Northern Ireland will continue to grow even further.”