The Gucci Brand Story

Discover the iconic allure of Gucci with our Gucci brand story. From stunning Gucci watches to the brand's esteemed history, explore Gucci now.

From an Italian family business to an iconic fashion house adored by royalty, Hollywood stars, and trendsetters worldwide, Gucci’s evolution is as impressive as its designs. As the iconic brand prepares to celebrate its centenary, here we’ll explore what is Gucci and what makes it one of the most desirable names in the world of luxury goods and fashion.

We’ll also answer key questions like where did Gucci originate, what does Gucci mean, and who owns Gucci today. And, to help you narrow down your options, we’ll share some of our favourite Gucci watch and Gucci jewellery collections. But first, let’s go back to where it all began…

Gucci: A history

Guccio Gucci, the son of a leather goods maker, was born in Florence in 1881. His future was arguably shaped by his time spent working as a porter at the Savoy Hotel in London, where he came to appreciate the luxurious luggage of wealthy guests. After returning to his native Italy, Guccio honed his skills before founding his eponymous company in 1921.

Gucci's unrelenting commitment to quality, craftsmanship, and bold designs formed the brand's essence that is so revered today. By 1938, Gucci's sons, Aldo, Vasco, and Rodolfo, had joined the business and so began an unprecedented period of ambitious expansion. Remarkably, at this point, the company didn't have an official logo. It was Aldo who was responsible for the design of what has become one of the world's most recognisable logos – the iconic double GG.

Already a great success in Italy, the opening of Gucci's first boutique in America in 1953, which was located at the Savoy Plaza Hotel in New York, was considered a key turning point in the brand’s growth. Gucci was enthusiastically embraced by well-to-do American consumers, as well as the rich and famous, often being seen and, more importantly, photographed on the likes of Elizabeth Taylor, Jackie Kennedy, and Princess Grace of Monaco. By this time, Gucci's reputation as a designer of opulent and high-quality fashion and luxury goods was already cemented.

Where did Gucci originate?

Gucci originated in Florence, the capital of Tuscany and the birthplace of Guccio Gucci. The region’s Renaissance architecture and art have been synonymous with Gucci since its inception, and can still be seen in some of the company’s modern day designs. The uncompromisingly high standards of Italian craftsmanship and production has always been considered a core quality of the Gucci brand. Today, Gucci also has main offices, or 'hubs', located in Rome and in Milan, which is considered one of the world’s fashion capitals.

Who owns Gucci?

Gucci remained a family-controlled business for over 70-years, but in 1993, the family sold the Gucci brand. Today, Gucci is owned by French conglomerate Kering, which also owns other top fashion houses. In safe hands, Kering has ensured that Gucci remains true to its heritage, inimitable Italian craftsmanship, and the unwavering promise that only the very highest quality products will bear its name.

Where is Gucci made?

We are often asked ‘where is Gucci made?’, and as a business so fiercely loyal to its Italian roots, it’s little surprise that the majority of all Gucci products are made in Italy. Gucci jewellery is no exception. Every piece of jewellery in the collection is the work of the renowned in-house design team and the expert production and assembly is carried out by top Italian craftsmen, for which the company is rightly famed.

But when it comes to building intricate watches, one country has long led the way. So, to retain its integrity and dedication to in-house production, Gucci acquired a watchmaking atelier in Switzerland which is where all Gucci watches are made. The result is a fusion of Italian flair and creativity with Swiss precision and expertise.

Explore Gucci watches

Gucci launched its first fashion watch back in 1972 and has been producing high-quality and undeniably stunning Swiss timepieces ever since. In fact, many classic Gucci vintage watch designs still influence the brand’s current range of elegant and eye-catching timepieces. If you’re wondering how much is a Gucci watch, you’ll find designs starting from around £600 at Ernest Jones and with our Interest-Free Credit option, taking home your dream Gucci watch couldn’t be easier.

Find the perfect Gucci jewellery

Gucci’s design ethos is evidently clear throughout its luxury jewellery collection, which features a range of rings, pendants, earrings, and bracelets, that are all expertly crafted in Italy. Featuring both men’s and ladies’ designs, the collection is perfect for those who love to make a sophisticated style statement.

The Gucci women’s jewellery range includes some really striking designs, such as the extraordinary Trademark silver heart collection and the ever-popular Marmont range of rings and bracelets adorned with the iconic double G logo. Running G is another must-see fine jewellery collection, featuring luxurious 18ct white and yellow gold designs, including some with dazzling diamond detailing. There is sure to be something that catches your eye in Gucci’s impressive range.

The collection of Gucci jewellery for men features statement bold designs across a selection of rings, stud earrings, pendants, and striking bracelets. Predominantly comprising contemporary silver pieces, any stylish man will be spoilt for choice.

Discover Gucci at Ernest Jones

Oozing style, Italian flair, and contemporary glamour, we’re proud to offer Gucci’s collection of beautifully crafted timepieces and luxury jewellery. As you’d expect from one of the world’s most loved and revered brands, all Gucci pieces are of exceptional quality, making them the perfect special gift for a loved one or treat for yourself.

If you have any additional questions or you’d like to discuss a specific range or product, why not book a complimentary in-store or virtual appointment with one of our expert staff, who’ll be delighted to help.