b'TOM DIXONSchwanke-Kasten Jewelers was one of the first 10 authorized Breitling dealers in the U.S. and held events with the brand, like this one with the pilots of the Breitling Orbiter 3, the first balloon to circumnavigate Earth without stopping.for almost 30 years before buying out Mercedes in the 80s and then passing away suddenly after being in a car accident. Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers has it all here under one roof, according to Tom, with two Level That left Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers in the hands of Patricia Dixon,60 Rolex watchmakers.Toms mother, who worked at the store with Toms siblings before calling Tom to come home.some of the top brands in the world are here.In 1989, he returned to Milwaukee with the promise that he wouldOur attitude is to listen to what the customers want and give it to be named president of the family business.them. We dont bully them into something they dont wantWe just take care of everybody like theyre our family. SERVING SMALL-WAUKEE Toms focus has not only been having the right merchandise, but During his time as president, Tom eliminated the stores silverwarealso employing outstanding tradespeople who are friendly, kind, and offerings and the gift shop section, focusing instead on becoming aunderstanding. leader in fine jewelry and watches in the upper Midwest. Honest to God, I dont have to be here most days, Tom says At one point in our history, we had six full-time hand engravers,about his staff. and we were making our own sterling silver and tea services. We wereContinued on page 14a manufacturer of that stuff too. We did the battleship USS Wisconsin tea service way before I was born and that was a big deal, says Tom. In 2023, Schwanke-Kasten In the late 90s, Patricia retired and TomJewelers main showroom was gutted for a complete remodel began transitioning away from giftware andwith a new Rolex salon.focusing more on watches.Today, the store sells Rolex and Tudor watches, along with jewelry from brands including Roberto Coin, Marco Bicego, Platinum Born, and Rahaminov Diamonds.It also has two Level 60 Rolex watch-makers, a master goldsmith, a gemologist, an appraiser, and a designer.Weve got it all here under one roof, Tom says. Were still old school. We dont really send anything out for service. We do it all right here.He adds, We have been serving the up-per end of Milwaukee for generations, and I think we have never abused that. Weve always provided outstanding service and 12 RETAILER HALL OF FAME 2025'