Roberts Jewelry was founded in Harlingen, Texas, in June 1922 by Roy Bertrum (R.B.) Roberts. It was located in the historic [1915] S. Lozano & Sons building at 123 W. Jackson from 1922 to 1961.

R.B. Roberts promoted himself as "Optometrist and Watchmaker." Watch and clock repair were the mainstay of the business. In those days, the store did not stock jewelry, but if a customer came in and wanted a ring or necklace, there were pamphlets on hand from which items could be ordered.

After World War II, R.B.' s son, Bert Lund Roberts, got involved in the business. Legend has it that R.B. handed young Bert the bulk of the store's "inheritance," watches left by customers to be repaired, and said, "Here, if you can figure out how to fix these, then you've got a job." Bert did, and the business later became his.

During Bert's tenure, Roberts Jewelry grew and expanded. Bert realized they could make more money if they had jewelry in stock. He began to carry the Krementz line of good-quality, costume jewelry and Bulova watches and clocks. Bert also parlayed his wartime experience with timing and navigational equipment into a long-standing relationship with Southern Pacific and Union Pacific, both of which had division offices in Harlingen. For many years, the rail lines contracted with Roberts Jewelry to inspect and synchronize the clocks, pocket watches, and wristwatches used by their workers.

R.B.'s grandson, Brett, took over the business in 1989 and today is one of very few certified gemologists in South Texas, an accomplishment that distinguishes Roberts from other jewelry stores. For generations, families have trusted Roberts with repair of fine watches and jewelry, where you can still get your watch repaired or purchase jewelry for sale.