Shop While You Explore!

Out of two shops in central and Old Pasadena, Peter Gallego of Third Generation offers up a beguiling array of random discoveries that fascinate the eye and  delight the touch. His eclectic, ever-changing collection presents collectable handsome vintages watches, antiques bronze lamps, old phonographs, oil paintings, jade and a world of sometimes rare, always original ornamental objets.  In Europe, I suppose his twin establishments would be called “les bric-a-brac.” I simply call them, “grand fun.”

Sparkling diamonds, glinty gold and vintage watches.

The true fun of Third Generation is in the the thrill of the hunt. Gallego’s inventory is so amorphous and his tastes so artistic, one never knows what will pop into view next. Exploring his whimsical objects, I am drawn away by the truly beautiful jewelry (sparkling diamonds, glinty gold)  and 1930’s and 1940’s vintage timepieces.

Third Generation is so accessible – unlike the “by appointment” places, which seem so intimidating, the friendly atmosphere Gallego has created is so inviting that one can’t help but enjoy browsing.

Gallego himself is a treasure. He appraises, he repairs, he cites the provenance of his objects, he entertains.  Gallego is also an actual gemologist, which makes him a bit rare, too.

Among the many treasures are vintage watches in excellent condition.

Beyond creating the collection he presents by scouring estates, Gallego also is a skilled appraiser and offers merchandise for sales on consignment. Given today’s topsy-turvey economic climate, Gallego is also a friend indeed to those with unwanted items they wish to sell. His abilities and his stores make Third Generation an excellent venue to consider if you find yourself considering offering items on consignment.

In days such as these (“the best of times, the worst of times”) it strikes me that Third Generation embodies the perfect retail store for today.  It’s a package that’s locally-owned, recycles timeless treasures, offers frugalness in its quaint way,  and is all wrapped up with the lure of discovery, of hidden finds beckoning, and the rewards of finding the unique and artistic in a world chock-a-block with manufactured sameness.

Third Generation
222 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena (626) 792-5230.  Closed Monday, open Sunday – Saturday 10 – 6 PM
56 S. Delacey Ave., Pasadena (626) 844-047.  Closed on Monday, open Tuesday – Sunday 12 – 9 PM
http://www.3rdgenerationetc.com/en/