PODCASTS > Arcat Detailed Podcast Episode
150: Roman Brick and Limestone | Precision Watchmakers Store
47m 53s |
In this episode, Cherise is joined by Alexander Zilberman, AIA, Principal at Alexander Zilberman Architecture in New York City. They discuss the new Precision Watchmakers Store in Lower Gwynedd Township, Pennsylvania. Precision has been in the watchmaker business since 1946 and represents brands such as Rolex, Cartier, Tudor, Omega, Bell&Ross, Michele, and Longines.
Set within a vibrant suburban corridor of Philadelphia, the new Precision Watchmakers Store is conceived as both landmark and craft object. The 9,000-square-foot building occupies a wedge-shaped site, its exterior clad in Roman brick and limestone that lend weight and permanence to the composition.
Set within a vibrant suburban corridor of Philadelphia, the new Precision Watchmakers Store is conceived as both landmark and craft object. The 9,000-square-foot building occupies a wedge-shaped site, its exterior clad in Roman brick and limestone that lend weight and permanence to the composition.
Photos/Drawings/Supplemental Info:
Photo Credit: Courtesy of Alexander Zilberman Architecture
Video: Courtesy of Precision Watches
Video tour of the Precision Watchmakers Store in Lower Gwynedd Township, Pennsylvania
Alexander Zilberman, AIA, Principal at Alexander Zilberman Architecture in New York City. alex@azarchdesign.com
Alexander Zilberman, AIA is founder and principal architect of Alexander Zilberman Architecture PC (AZA), a globally active studio working on residential, high-end retail, hospitality and workplace projects, among others.
As an architect, artist and designer, he translates brand identity and experience into architectural solutions that reflect a focus on craft, technology, and detail.
Zilbermanâs work with well-known brands such as Versace, Michael Kors, and Aston Martin can be seen from New York to Savannah, Palm Beach and Dubai.
Project Name and Location: Precision Watches, Lower Gwynedd Township, Pennsylvania
Precision Watches is a freestanding flagship and headquarters that opened in 2024 on a busy corridor in a vibrant Philadelphia suburb. The 9,000-square-foot venue provides showroom space for Rolex, Cartier, Tudor, and Omega. Its two floors are connected by a floating grand stair set within a glass-enclosed atrium and hovering above a tranquility garden.
The project blends traditional construction and artisan work with precision-engineered shop-fabricated systems that allow for rapid assembly on-site with guaranteed high-quality results and reduced dependence on specialized trades.
For Precision Watches, the prefab systems were utilized to construct the brand-specific mini-boutiques on Precisionâs first floor, spaces which had to meet the exacting specifications of luxury brands Rolex, Cartier, and others.
Prefab products and systems were also utilized in other areas, including the second floor retail space and the mezzanine-level office for owner Roman Murat and the Precision Watches team.
Clad in intricate Roman brickwork and rich limestone, the venue establishes an iconic presence on a prominent, wedge-shaped site along a popular shopping corridor.
Topped by a champagne-hued metal roof, the classic masonry facade features lintels and zipper-stone patterns that evoke the aesthetics of luxury watchbands. Inside guests encounter comfortable furnishings and bright, well-appointed spaces finished in marble, bronze, metal mesh, and wood. Lounge areas, bars, and a café offer refreshments for customers.
Project Team List:
General Contractor: Trinity Construction Services
Lighting Supplier: Capitol Light
Unique Products:
Kansas Limestone: U.S. Stone
Chevron Flooring: Havwoods
Roman Maximus Brick: Glen-Gery
Decorative Plaster (interior): Texston
Wallcoverings: Innovations
Storefront Systems: Symphony Glass
Steel (structure): Kelly Iron Works
