It all began in 1886, when Douglas Harry Baker, a skilled watchmaker from Barnet, England, began his apprenticeship. Years later, he emigrated to Western Australia, settling in Geraldton. There, he opened a small workshop — the first jewelry store and watch repair shop in the region. He focused on repairing watches and clocks, while also offering fine jewellery to the growing town. His precision and integrity earned him a reputation for quality, laying the foundation for what would become a five-generation family legacy.

In 1909, Douglas’s son, Douglas Hubert Baker, was born. The family moved to Geraldton in 1911, and young Douglas was soon learning the trade from his father. By 1924, he was a trained watchmaker himself.

In 1935, Douglas Hubert married Edith Annie Uren and moved to Northam, where he managed a jewellery store and later opened his own in 1940. The shop grew steadily. During World War II, Douglas served as an Instrument Maker in the Royal Australian Air Force, while Edith managed the business. Together, they built a trusted name in town.

Then came the third generation — David Leon Baker, born in 1937 in Northam. He followed in the family’s footsteps, beginning his apprenticeship in 1952 and taking over the business in 1958. Under David’s leadership, the business expanded beyond Northam, opening a new store in Merredin. He emphasized watch repairs and grew the jewellery offering significantly.

In the 1970s, David and his wife Yvonne Goddard sold their stores and returned to Geraldton. From there, they rebuilt again. In 1978, they opened the first Leon Baker branded store in the Town Towers. Over the years, the store moved around Geraldton — from Marine Terrace to the Northgate Shopping Centre. David noticed the differences between customer types and ultimately focused on quality service over discount retailing.

In 2009, after decades of service, David sold the company to his youngest daughter Elise and her husband Shain Forth, officially passing the torch to the fourth generation.

Elise had worked at the shop since she was 16. By 2007, she was already running things. She and Shain brought a new vision — remodelling the stores for a cleaner, more welcoming feel and introducing an online presence. Shain added his creative touch too, launching fresh designs like the Coral Bay Collection, inspired by WA’s coastline. Together, they kept the business modern while honouring its traditions.

And now? The fifth generation has arrived — Ross Forth. At just 17, Ross moved away from home to open and manage the Merredin store. He built it from the ground up, earning customer trust and gaining valuable experience. Later, he launched the Busselton store, blending clean design with old-school service. Ross is now leading the family legacy with a passion for expert watch repairs, modern jewellery styles, and the same core values: honesty, quality, and service.

Over 130 Years of Craftsmanship
From its roots in 1886, through wars, generations, and massive change, Leon Baker Jewellers has stood for craftsmanship, trust, and family pride. It’s more than a business — it’s a legacy.