Situated in beautiful San Francisco, California is PIER 39, a waterfront complex full of unique shops, restaurants, attractions, and stunning views. A must-see for tourists and a favorite of the locals, PIER 39 is home to The Crystal Shop, a mainstay in the area that has carried the entire MOVA line since 2012, while also offering the finest in glass, crystal, art, and giftware. We sat down with owner Gautam Nakarmi to discuss the historic San Francisco waterfront and his thoughts on MOVA Creations.
1) Tell us a little bit about your store.
The Crystal Shop has been in San Francisco for over 20 years. Since 2006 it has been operated by new management and now we have two locations in PIER 39. The San Francisco Crystal Shop is a specialty boutique for collectors of beautiful glassware, Swarovski crystal, art, MOVA Globes and sculpture.
2) To you, what makes handmade items special and how do MOVA Globes fit into your collection?
Handmade items are special because they have a human quality that is unique to each and every piece – they’re one of a kind. MOVA Creations fit into our collection at The Crystal Shop by giving the customer an item that’s parts science and technology, while also showing off the unique work of art. It’s both for physics enthusiasts and just for fun.
3) How do your customers generally react upon seeing MOVA Globes in your store?
Customers react to MOVA Globes in the store with a positive display of surprise. They are fascinated by the mystery of how the globes are turning.
4) How did you discover MOVA Globes and what was your initial reaction?
In 2012, a member of our sales staff told me that MOVA Globes are great selling pieces so we decided to carry them in our store. I’ve always been a science enthusiast so I was fascinated when I first saw them. Fast forward to today and we have many customers who come to our store specifically to see MOVA Globes – the 4.5” Antique Gloss Finish and 4.5” Satellite View with Gold Lettering designs have become incredibly popular.
5) Why should people visit PIER 39 and what is your favorite part of the historic San Francisco waterfront?
People should visit PIER 39 for its diverse selection of unique, small business shops. They can see and buy items that will provide a keep-sake memory of their time spent here. Also, they can sample foods that are a historic part of our PIER 39/Fisherman’s Wharf area. Finally, one of San Francisco’s most beautiful views is right here, like a real life postcard. My favorite part of the historic San Francisco waterfront is the Aquatic Park area.
6) After carrying MOVA Globes for several years, which model is your favorite and why?
The Jupiter MOVA Globe is my favorite. Since I was a child, I have always been fascinated by astronomy and in particular the giant gas planets such as Jupiter. MOVA’s design of Jupiter is a perfect replica of that great planet.
Whether you’re in The City by the Bay for work or for pleasure, be sure to stop by The Crystal Shop to pick up a unique, handmade gift after you’ve explored PIER 39’s attractions and taken in the views of the Golden Gate Bridge. To learn more, visit the links below.
The Crystal Shop: http://www.sfcrystalshop.com/
PIER 39: http://www.pier39.com/
Not planning a trip to San Francisco any time soon? Find out where MOVA Globes are sold near you!