Birmingham jeweller reveals cost of Peaky Blinders style
One of Birmingham’s oldest independent jewellers has revealed how much the items favoured by Tommy Shelby and the Peaky Blinders would have set them back during the gang’s heyday.
David Johnson, the founder of Rex Johnson and Sons on Corporation Street, has seen sales of pocket watches boosted after previous series premieres of the hit TV show.
David said: “We have a selection of jewellery that was made in Birmingham during the Peaky Blinders era.
"Our historic checks value a top of the range nine carat gold pocket watch at around £30 in 1929, when the new series was set.
“Today we have examples that fit that specification selling for more than £1,000.
“This shows the timeless quality of jewellery made at this time, it is such a different style to what is produced today, with a focus on craftsmanship, quality and elegance.
“We also have classic mens gold signet rings from the mid to late 1920’s, a favourite of Arthur Shelby, which at the time would have set him back around £10, which we value at around £225 now.
“The popularity of the Peaky Blinders style today proves that Birmingham was producing classic jewellery in this era.”
Rex Johnson and Sons has been trading as a family run business in Birmingham for 45 years, with David working alongside his son Ben to run the shop today.
The hit BBC One drama, starring the likes of Cillian Murphy, Paul Anderson and Helen McCrory, is set to return this Sunday at 9pm.
The show enjoyed it's premiere for the fifth season earlier this month at Birmingham Town Hall with a glittering red carpet event.
A festival inspired by the show is coming to Digbeth next month, with performances from the likes of Anna Calvi, Frank Carter and The Rattlesnakes, Slaves, Primal Scream, Nadine Shah, Hotel Lux and Pearl Harts.
Some 20,000 fans are expected to attend each day of the festival, which has been co-curated by the show's creator Steven Knight and will include appearances from cast members.
