'I'm a grand ambassador for watches'

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend — especially when your dad owns a jewellery store. There is no doubting the gem in this expert’s crown — he named his daughter Tiara.

Tiara Wilson, 24, grew up with a love of precious stones and metals thanks to her dad Greg, who owned Wilson’s Fine Jewellers.

She is now a certified Omega Ambassador for North America and works for Astwood Dickinson, owned by AS Cooper.

Somers Cooper, managing director for AS Cooper, said: “Tiara is a bright young Bermudian who is smart, motivated and has a passion for learning. She has fantastic customer service skills, too. Tiara has made great strides in a short period of time and we have high hopes for her.”

Here, Ms Wilson talks about her achievements and ambitions.

When did your love of jewellery develop?

I have always had a passion as my dad had Wilson’s Fine Jewellers. He made me tonnes of pieces.

How did you break into the industry?

I started my career with Walker Christopher. I knew how to design and carve pieces of jewellery but it was essential for me to learn how to manipulate the metal. Unfortunately, due to the recession, I was let go. Just a few months of being out of work, a job came up at Astwood Dickinson.

How did you find the transition from jewellery to watches?

After a year at Astwood Dickinson I have found a new interest in watches. It was intriguing to see how watches work — to see the intricacies of all the movements working together without a battery.

Every year in April, the Omega trainers come down and educate the staff on the new products and selling techniques.

Last time they had a new programme, Omega Ambassador, where select people around the world are chosen to represent the brand based on appreciation and enthusiasm, knowledge of the brand and ability to sell high-end timepieces.

I had to do a test to see if I was qualified and I became an Omega ambassador in Miami in September. A few months later I had the chance to become a grand ambassador. I was one of only three chosen to represent the entire US and the Caribbean.

What was the training like?

I had to travel to Switzerland in January for formal training. I had to do a very intense, detailed project.

What do you like about Omega?

They are so innovative and have a lot of industry firsts, such as the co-axial escapement (a self-winding movement), which other watchmakers will copy.

What do you like about work?

I work with many beautiful pieces that are so valuable and luxurious.

What is your favourite piece of jewellery?

My Omega Seamaster Aqua Terra with the co-axial escapement. In order to fully understand how to sell something, you have to own it. I believe in this brand.

What is Astwood’s most expensive watch?

A Patek Phillipe Grand Complications with 18 carat yellow gold and leather strap with a perpetual calendar. It retails for $88,000. We also carry Cartier brand, Tag Hauer and Jaeger Lecoultre.