“I always cared about my reputation, not just with customers but with everybody: the community, my parents, and my friends.”
In the dynamic world of entrepreneurship, success often finds its way into the lives of those with strong determination, passion, and a true love for their craft. Avi Hiaeve, the visionary force behind Avi & Co., exemplifies this remarkable journey of triumph and growth, rising from humble beginnings to become a shining beacon of success in the ev- er-evolving market.
From the bustling streets of New York City, where he first arrived with limited knowledge of the English language, Avi’s journey began with a relentless work ethic. From a tender age, he found himself immersed in the world of commerce, dedicating countless hours to his family’s stores and displaying a natural flair for salesman- ship.
At just 16, driven by his strong ambition, he dreamt of creating his own empire and made a bold leap into the entrepreneurial realm.
How did you get started in the industry?
Avi Hiaeve: I moved to New York from Israel with my parents when I was 14. When I arrived, the only English I knew were the words ‘yes’ and ‘no’.
I worked at my mom’s cousin’s store on Canal Street downtown on weekends and also at my dad’s jewelry store in Long Island for a few days each week. I was making crazy sales and getting paid $40/day, and then I would come out with a $1,000 salary a week because of the commissions.
It was crazy. At 16, I told my parents I wanted to open my own store. With the expe- rience I gained from working since I was ten, I felt motivated and ready; I was immersed in the hustle and bus- tle of the business world. I was never afraid. I believed in myself. I believed in the business. Since then, I have en- countered numerous ups and downs in life, but overall, the experiences have been positive.
We opened the new store, and I worked on Canal Street from the age of 16 to 19. I was the best jeweler over there. I started gaining recognition for my work and for how well I treated people. And since day one, I made a conscious effort to be genuine with people.
I always cared about my reputation, not just with customers but with everybody: the community, my parents, and my friends. When I turned 19, I knew I wanted to make my way over to 47th Street.
During that time, it was nearly impossible to get a store, regardless of your efforts or financial resources. Fortunately, luck was on my side, and I acquired the store.
Tell us about your new signature watch collection. What does it include and what’s the price range?
Avi Hiaeve: Our Avi & Co. watches are fully iced out. They were created by me and my team, inspired by the legacy of a man who built his home from the ground up. The pattern on the bracelet mimics the house’s deck, and the dial resembles the brick of the driveway.
It was produced in our factory. I’m working on a whole line of limited-edition plain watches with some special movements on them. That should be coming out soon. As of now, prices range from $291,599 – $371,099, depending on the size.
What are some of your favorite pieces that you own and why?
Avi Hiaeve: My first watch was a Breitling Crosswind Special, and it quickly became my favorite. I bought it for $2,500 and later sold it for $3,000. Other than that, choosing a watch is all about your wrist size and lifestyle. I have a large wrist, so I can’t wear Rolex Presidential Day Dates. For some people, they look amazing, and I personally love the watch.
Every timepiece in our inventory reflects my taste and what I believe people will appreciate, including what’s currently popular in the market. I don’t make purchases just for the sake of it. I select various watches in different styles, and I don’t believe there’s a single ‘best’ watch; every watch we sell has its unique appeal.
If I had to pick one though, I love Richard Milles. They’re big and comfortable. I also love the bling on the Sky-Dweller. But my new favorite is the Avi & Co. watch.
Do you specialize in fine jewelry for him and her – tell us about it?
Avi Hiaeve: Diamonds by Avi is going to be certified by Avi & Co. These pieces will be high-end, GIA certified, and vary from VS to VVS. I’m trying not to use any SI quality or lower.
Most jewelers like Tiffany’s and Graff still don’t use the high colors and clarities that I want. My aim is to elevate the standards to a new level, and every design will be created by us.
What are your top selling pieces?
Avi Hiaeve: We sell a little bit of everything, including Richard Mille, Patek Philippe, and Audemars Piguet. However, we probably sell Rolex the most.
Who are some of your celebrity customers?
Avi Hiaeve: Floyd Mayweather, Nicky Jam, J Balvin, Mike Towers, Sylvester Stallone, Jamie Foxx, and Drake, among others. With high-end jewelry and timepieces come high-end buyers, including celebrities.
I have always been natural at creating relationships with people. No matter who they are. I like to have direct relationships with everyone, creating a bond between buyer and seller and most importantly, person to person.
How do you continue to grow your business in the current market?
Avi Hiaeve: I’m always thinking outside the box within the industry. I try to be the first in everything. We’re also expanding, venturing into various cities, states, and potentially other countries. On May 4th, during the F1 week- end, we opened our store in Miami’s Design District.
It was a significant achievement considering we are not authorized dealers for Rolex or these brands, which is a requirement to have a store in the Design District. However, we managed to secure a location nonetheless, as our business is privately owned.
The Miami Grand Opening surpassed my expectations. I was anticipating a good outcome, but it exceeded all my hopes and wishes. I don’t even know how to express it, but I feel truly blessed.
This interview was originally published on ValiantCEO.
