Internet Horology Club 185
Bertmar Watches

This topic can be found at:
https://ihc185.infopop.cc/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/2291010082/m/9453949077

March 29, 2012, 15:52
David Flegel
Bertmar Watches
Can anyone give me a quick headsup on Bertmar Watches. Quality, how long have they been around, just a quicj fillin. Have chance to purchase one. What is the going price for these, cannot see any the complete guide.
March 29, 2012, 16:25
Peter Kaszubski
quote:
Bertmar Watches

google is your best friend Big Grin
from internet I'm not that smart Eek
Bertmar was the house brand name for watches sold by People's (Credit) Jewellers, likely up until the late 1970s or early 1980s. The founder, Frank Gerstein, had two sons in the business. Their names were Bert(rand) and Mar(vin), hence the Bertmar name. People's had stores all across Canada, from Newfoundland to Vancouver Island. So it would nor be possible to narrow it down as to where it was originally sold. When Frank was running the business, it was located primarily in Ontario, with catalog stores in many locations across Canada.
March 29, 2012, 16:59
David Flegel
Since posting the question I also found that part out. The person selling this watch was claiming it to be RRG. Knowing Peoples I doubt that it came with those standards. Peoples was not known as a high end jeweler. They were I believe the second line store chain for another called Mappins.

I was hoping someone would have a better idea as to quality. As it is I think I will pass on this one.
April 11, 2012, 16:10
Marvin Gerstein
I can give you some background to Bertmar watches.
April 12, 2012, 08:05
Dr. Debbie Irvine

Marvin,

In your profile you stated...

addendum to posting of March 29 while surfing for info on Frank Gerstein, my father, and being son Mar(vin). Can provide certain info regarding BERTMAR

We would love to have you share the background information on the Bertmar watches! Your personal recollections will be fascinating I am sure!

Debbie

Smile

April 12, 2012, 09:47
Tom Brunton
Marvin; I, and I'm sure all of the members welcome your insights. People's Credit Jewellers was a legendary Canadian jewelery chain,and prominent in my home town of Winnipeg, and most assuredly sold many RR watches. It was like a Birks for the common man. A respectful tip of my hat to a famous family of entrepreneurs!!! Wink Tom
April 12, 2012, 12:52
David Flegel
I am sorry if I offened anyone with my questions. I was just going on what I have been told by people in Ottawa and was why I was asking the question.

I am not sure how to word this. While as Tom stated it was a legedary chain. On what level it sold seems to be the point of difference. Maybe it is urban myth or the store got knocked where it should not have been. That would not be uncommon to Ottawa to bring down a Canadian instituion or person that was successful.
April 12, 2012, 13:42
Tom Brunton
P.S. Marvin !!! Got any old watches, parts or tools in the basement you want to sell ? LOL, Wink

As well Marvin,I remember the catchy People's advertising jingles on radio and early T-V in Winnipeg