Our Workshop
Ancient Tools.
Ancient Tools.
Extraordinary Results.
Some of our machinery dates to the mid 1860s. All of it is still in use.
"We get asked about the big machine often."
The short answer is that it is a screw press, and yes, we use it. The long answer is far more interesting. Of all the vintage equipment in our workshop, that press is by far the largest — and the newest. It was delivered to the I. Bedichimer Company in Philadelphia in 1921.
The Bedichimer Legacy
A Canvas Bag and a Single Hand Press
In 1860, Isaac Bedichimer emigrated from his native Russia. A fine jewelry mechanic, he brought with him a canvas bag, hand tools, a single hand press, and his skill. In time he built a strong and respected business in Masonic and Fraternal jewelry — a legacy that would eventually find its way to Station Avenue in Haddon Heights.
The Apprenticeship
A Friendship That Changed Everything
In the late 1970s, we became friends with and apprenticed under the last owner of the I. Bedichimer Company, Mr. Ross Sellers. He was without peer — a fine hand engraver, jeweler, enameler, and machinist. He was extraordinarily generous with his time and knowledge.
Prior to his retirement, Mr. Sellers had been in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. The historic importance of the Bedichimer shop was known to them. Representatives from the Smithsonian kept several items which are, to this day, on permanent exhibit on the Mall.
Smithsonian Institution — Washington, D.C.
Items from the original Bedichimer shop are on permanent exhibit at the Smithsonian. What they did not take, they entrusted to us — with one condition: set it up, and keep using it.
Station Avenue Today
Still In Use. Just As Promised.
True to our word, everything the Smithsonian did not take is ours — set up in our shop on Station Avenue and used exactly as intended. Using the same materials, techniques, and equipment, we continue to make Masonic and Fraternal jewelry for organizations across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, and Delaware.
We hold many rare dies and formulas to produce these exacting symbols of office. And these same skills carry over to every custom piece and repaired heirloom that leaves our bench.
From the Archive
The Jewelers' Circular, 1897
Isaac Bedichimer's name appears in the historical trade press as far back as 1897. The craft he brought from Russia took root in Philadelphia and grew into a legacy that spans more than 160 years — one we are proud to carry forward on Station Avenue today.
Photo Credit: Courier Post Online