The Hardy Brothers’ story begins in England in the late 18th century with Thomas Hardy, a skilled watch and clockmaker. His son Samuel expanded the family’s interest into jewellery, eventually establishing a business in St Ives, Huntingdonshire. In 1853, John Hardy, the youngest and most adventurous son, migrated to Australia aboard the Plantagenet, bringing with him watches, jewellery, gin, and firearms to sell. Despite early setbacks—including theft and market saturation—John was determined to succeed and quickly began building a reputation in Sydney.

John Hardy settled in Jamison Street, Sydney, and began selling jewellery and watches. His persistence paid off, and by Christmas 1853, he had £225 in the bank. He later moved to Hunter Street, which became the iconic home of Hardy Brothers for 80 years. His business grew steadily, aided by connections like Felix Wilson and the Wilson family. Despite personal setbacks, including the death of his first wife Louisa, John continued to expand the business and eventually remarried.

Hardy Brothers introduced silver plate ware and mourning jewellery to Australia and became known for their high-quality products. John’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to travel to country towns and goldfields, exchanging jewellery and watches for gold dust. His reputation grew, and he became known as “the first gentleman of Sydney’s jewellery trade.” The business expanded to Brisbane in 1894 under the leadership of John’s son Walter, who proved to be a visionary and energetic manager.

Queen Street, Brisbane, c.1884. At the time few of the city's fashionable shops were established in the main street.

The turn of the century brought political change with the Federation of Australia in 1901. Hardy Brothers thrived during this period, becoming a limited liability company in 1907. Walter Hardy was appointed the first managing director. The company’s prestige grew, and it began serving high-profile clients, including governors and royalty. Hardy Brothers received the Royal Warrant from King George V in 1929, officially becoming jewellers to the Crown.

In the late 1970s, Hardy Brothers faced potential takeovers. After considering offers from Angus & Coote and Industrial Equity Limited, the board accepted a proposal from Qintex, led by Christopher Skase. Qintex promised to preserve the company’s heritage while expanding its reach. The transition was smooth, and Hardy Brothers entered a new era of growth, including plans for new showrooms and increased product specialization.

In 1997, the fourth-generation family-owned jeweller Wallace Bishop acquired Hardy Brothers, bringing together two of Australia’s most storied jewellery houses. For Hardy Brothers, this transition marked both a return to family ownership values and the beginning of a fresh, forward-looking era: one grounded in heritage yet attuned to modern luxury and watch-making precision.

Hardy Brothers continues to define Australian luxury through strategy partnerships with esteemed international timepiece brands such as Louis Moinet, Bremont, and Jacob & Co. Blending innovation with impeccable tradition, the brand champions a new era of refinement while staying true to its enduring values of craftsmanship, service, and quality. With an unwavering focus on fine jewellery and high-end timepieces, Hardy Brothers stands as Australia’s premier destination for luxury, honouring its heritage as it shapes the future of modern elegance.