Erwin Von Der Heydt Was Born on a Small Farm in North Bellmore. As A Youngster He Was Very Mechanically Inclined And Became An Expert Watchmaker. His First Job Was With Two Brothers Whose Famous “Omega” Pocket Watch Later Became World-Renowned.
In 1923
Erwin and his wife Betty opened their distinctive jewelry and gift shop at 410 Bedford Avenue in Bellmore. As one of the finest jewelers on Long Island, Mr. Von der Heydt was contracted to install the clocks at the West Bathhouse at Jones Beach.
In 1962
Louis Gennaro, a graduate horologist (watchmaker) with 20 years of experience purchased Von Der Heydt Jewelers. Louis continued working for 6 more years maintaining the fine tradition of quality service, selection, and superior customer satisfaction. In 1968 the store became Gennaro Jewelers and Louis Gennaro continued to serve as the “premier” jeweler in the area.
In 1979
An Experienced Designer and Manufacturing Jeweler, Gary Hudes, Joined the Staff of Gennaro Jewelers and Became A Partner Shortly Thereafter. To Meet the Increasing Needs of His Customers, Hudes Expanded Gennaro Jeweler’s Manufacturing Capabilities In Addition To Their Design/Remount, Appraisal, and Repair Facilities. The Honorable Gary Hudes, is an Honorary Member of the New York State Police PBA, Honorary Member of the Nassau County Detectives Assn, Honorary Member of the Levittown Fire Dept., Honorary Member of the Long Island Shields, Honorary Member of the Nassau County Deputy Sheriff’s Assn. , Assoc. Member of the NYS Fraternal Order of Police and Co-Chairman of the Marine Corps Toys for Tots program. He has been the recipient of many community awards including The Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce, Toys for Tots, NYS Governor George Pataki, Trout Unlimited, NYS FOP, Knights of Columbus, Knights of Pythias, and the Long Island Shields, to name a few. The Honorable Gary Hudes also served with overwhelming success and accomplishments, for 17 years as a Councilman for the Town of Hempstead, America’s largest township. In an ongoing commitment to community service, Gennaro Jewelers’ commitment to the needs of the community is rock solid. This 97-year-old business donates every month to charitable fundraisers for various groups including- schools, little leagues, religious organizations, law enforcement, and fire department fundraisers, community well-being projects, and an ongoing and growing list of local non-profit organizations.
Watch Video - Gary Hudes Named Nassau County Police Department Person of the Year 2025
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