THE BIRTH OF A LEGACY
In 1802, master watchmaker and silversmith James Galt established a small watchmaking and jewelry business in Alexandria, Virginia. At the time, Alexandria was an active port city and an important commercial center in the young United States. Galt’s workshop specialized in repairing fine watches and creating silver objects and jewelry with exceptional attention to detail.
James Galt was known for his precision craftsmanship and dedication to quality. His work quickly gained recognition among merchants, naval officers, and prominent citizens in the region. What began as a modest workshop soon developed into a respected business built on skill, trust, and reputation.
This moment marked the beginning of what would eventually become one of the oldest jewelry houses connected to American history.
MOVE TO WASHINGTON, D.C.
During the 1820s, the Galt business moved from Alexandria to Washington, D.C., placing the company in the center of the growing American capital. The relocation allowed the firm to serve a more influential clientele that included diplomats, government officials, military leaders, and members of the political elite.
Washington was rapidly becoming a city of influence and prestige, and Galt & Bro. quickly established itself as a trusted jeweler and watchmaker within this environment. The shop became known for supplying fine jewelry, watches, and silver pieces that reflected both craftsmanship and elegance.
By positioning itself in the nation’s capital, the house of Galt became closely connected with the emerging identity of American luxury and refinement.
WASHINGTON'S DISTINGUISHED JEWELER
By the middle of the nineteenth century, Galt & Bro. had become one of Washington’s most respected jewelers. The company supplied luxury watches, jewelry, and silverware to many of the city’s most influential residents.
The firm built a reputation not only for the beauty of its pieces but also for reliability and craftsmanship. Clients valued the precision of Galt’s watchmaking and the quality of its precious materials. The house became a destination for those seeking finely crafted objects that reflected both status and taste.
This period established the brand as one of the leading jewelry houses in the American capital.
THE LINCOLN WATCH
One of the most famous historical connections involving Galt & Bro. relates to President Abraham Lincoln's pocket watch. During the Civil War era, the watch was serviced by a watchmaker connected with the Galt business.
According to historical accounts, when news arrived in Washington in 1861 that Confederate forces had attacked Fort Sumter — marking the beginning of the Civil War — the watchmaker reportedly engraved a secret message inside the watch case while repairing it. The inscription referenced the moment and the nation's uncertain future.
The small but powerful incident connected the house of Galt with one of the most significant events in American history and demonstrated how closely the firm's work intersected with the lives of national leaders.
EDITH WILSON AND THE GALT FAMILY
Another remarkable chapter in the Galt family history emerged through Edith Bolling Galt, who was connected to the Galt family through marriage. In 1915 she married President Woodrow Wilson, becoming the First Lady of the United States.
Edith Wilson later played an influential role in the White House, particularly during President Wilson’s illness. Her connection to the Galt family placed the name within the broader narrative of American political history.
Through this connection, the Galt legacy became intertwined with the leadership and cultural life of the United States.
PRESIDENT JOHN F KENNEDY AND THE WHITE HOUSE
The 35th president of the United States, John F. Kennedy, made use of sterling silver items crafted by Galt & Bro. in the White House.
These include a White House Oval Office paperweight engraved with the President's Seal. Apart from personal use, he gave similar paperweights as special gifts to friends during his presidency.
Another article made in sterling silver were engraved napkin holders used when members of the President's
Administration dined at the White House.
The President had also commissioned a gold plaque as a token of goodwill for the last ruling Sultan of Zanzibar, Sayyid Jamshid bin Abdullah Al Said. The plaque was never received as a consequence of the President's assassination in 1963.
LATE 20TH CENTURY
AMERICAN CRAFTSMANSHIP
Throughout the late twentieth century, Galt & Bro. continued its tradition of exceptional craftsmanship in fine jewelry and watches. The firm produced elegant diamond bracelets, gemstone-set rings, and refined timepieces that reflected the enduring artistry of American luxury design.
These pieces combined traditional techniques with evolving aesthetics, maintaining the brand’s reputation for quality and precision. Jewelry and watches from this era remain admired for their timeless elegance and meticulous detailing, representing the continuation of a legacy that began in 1802.
38TH PRESIDENT GERALD FORD
First Lady Elizabeth Anne Ford
40th President Ronald Reagan
THE HISTORIC PINK DIAMOND
In 2012, a remarkable pink diamond ring crafted by Galt & Bro. was sold at Christie’s auction in New York for $2.21 million. The ring features a pear-shaped fancy light pink diamond weighing approximately 10.52 carats, set in platinum and flanked by tapered baguette-cut diamonds.
Certified by the Gemological Institute of America as a Type IIa diamond — one of the purest and rarest categories — the stone is celebrated for its exceptional transparency and delicate natural color. The piece represents one of the most notable modern examples of Galt & Bro.’s craftsmanship.
TODAY
In recent years, the company was rebranded as Galt Couture, continuing operations in the luxury jewelry market.
In the 21st century, Galt & Bro pieces have been worn by celebrities and influencers.
In 2021, rapper A$AP Rocky wore a pearl necklace by Galt & Bro to the premiere of his documentary Stockholm Syndrome at the Tribeca Film Festival in New York City.
That same year, musician Giveon wore a bracelet by the brand during his first performance at the Lollapalooza, as part of a contemporary outfit.
The company also creates custom pieces for celebrities such as Rihanna.
OUR CRAFT & VISION
At Galt Couture, we carry forward that tradition of craftsmanship. Every piece in our collection is inspired by this legacy—where the past’s elegance meets today’s sensibilities.
Materials & Quality
At Galt Couture, we carry forward that tradition of craftsmanship. Every piece in our collection is inspired by this legacy—where the past’s elegance meets today’s sensibilities.
Design Philosophy
Our designs celebrate vintage, heritage, and bespoke detail, while remaining relevant to modern fashion. We aim to bring balance—refined and timeless, yet accessible and wearable.
Personal Touch
Whether you’re looking for a statement piece, a collector’s item, or something uniquely yours, our boutique service ensures you feel seen. We help with customization, styling, and a personalized journey.