RAPAPORT... Jewelers of America (JA) has named Rolex Watch USA CEOStewart Wicht as the recipient of its 2019 GEM Award for Lifetime Achievement. The GEM Awards honor the outstanding achievements ofindividuals or companies whose work raises the visibility and status of finejewelry and watches. "A bigger-than-life personality and an astute businessman,Stewart significantly elevated Rolex's partnership with its dealers, thusallowing the entire industry to benefit from this development," GEM Awards chairOlivier Stip of Chanel said last week. "Very generous with his time, Stewartsupports several trade organizations, making him an undisputed leader in thewatchmaking world." Wicht has been with Rolex since 1975, and has been CEO ofits USA division since 2011. He will retire from the timepiece maker inDecember, but will remain on its board of directors. Image: Stewart Wicht, president and CEO of Rolex Watch USA. Credit: Jewelers of America