In a dazzling showcase of elegance and opulence, Sanat “Sunny” Bhindi, a key figure in the renowned Bhindi Jewelers family business, proudly introduces the newly renovated and expanded boutique located in the Glendale Galleria, Southern California. The grand reopening event, held in mid-December, attracted an exclusive cohort of clients who reveled in the splendor of the 4,850-square-foot store.
As Sunny Bhindi gestures towards the meticulously crafted furniture and stunning displays within the boutique, the brilliance of a 40 mm white gold Rolex Day-Date, adorned with a diamond bezel and pave dial, catches the ambient light. The occasion marks a triumphant return for Bhindi Jewelers, a retail mainstay with deep ties to the state’s South Asian community.
Undertaking this ambitious renovation project during the challenges of the Covid era, Sunny Bhindi expresses the resilience of the family-owned business. Despite facing obstacles, the Bhindi family persevered, resulting in a state-of-the-art showroom adjacent to their store, showcasing the timeless elegance of Rolex timepieces.
The journey of Bhindi Jewelers traces back to 1952 when Karsanji Bhindi, a goldsmith who migrated from India to the Fiji Islands, founded the business in the Fijian capital of Suva. Over the years, the family business flourished, with the three sons—Vinod, Jayent, and Dhanesh—expanding to North America in 1975. The California venture began in 1984 with a 700-square-foot store in Little India, a journey that has now evolved into a multi-location enterprise involving five brothers of the third generation.
Sunny Bhindi reflects on the family’s success, emphasizing the bond that unites them. “The secret is we go on vacations together,” he shares. “We think alike, we know each other really well. We’re best friends.” The collaborative spirit within the family has been a cornerstone, fostering a harmonious approach to business.
As an authorized dealer of Rolex since 1998, Bhindi Jewelers has consistently attracted enthusiasts of the prestigious brand. The Glendale store, now expanded and enhanced, not only features an extensive selection of Rolex timepieces but also hosts an array of other high-end watch brands, including Cartier, Tudor, Omega, Breitling, Grand Seiko, Zenith, TAG Heuer, and Nomos.
While Rolex holds a special place in Bhindi’s offerings, the business’s roots in jewelry remain strong. Sunny Bhindi highlights the extensive diamond collection at the Artesia flagship store, boasting over 6,000 natural diamond SKUs. The family’s commitment to quality is evident, with a strict adherence to 18-karat gold, VVS clarity, and EF colors.
The thoughtfully designed Glendale showroom reflects Bhindi’s dedication to providing an inviting space. Sunny Bhindi elaborates on the layout, emphasizing visibility from all directions to engage passersby. Notably, the Rolex salon within the store features a family room—a pioneering concept in the U.S. Rolex retail landscape, complete with a desk and sofa, inviting clients to make it a family affair.
In the face of uncertainties in the luxury business landscape, Sunny Bhindi remains optimistic about Bhindi Jewelers’ resilience. “Historically, as a company, we’ve never had a downturn,” he asserts. Acknowledging the challenges faced by the broader retail industry, he remains cautiously optimistic about the future.
Amidst an era of change, Bhindi Jewelers’ Glendale showroom stands as a testament to the family’s commitment to excellence, blending tradition with modern luxury—a showpiece that captures the essence of their enduring success.
