On Wednesday, Nov. 6, four suspects used a sledgehammer to smash the window of New Canaan, Conn., jewelry store Henry C. Reid and Son.

At around 4 p.m., four unmasked individuals approached the front of the store, according to owner Harry French (who was not present at the time). One took a sledgehammer to the display window while two others assisted him in breaking it open enough to grab three Rolex watches valued at $60,000. “There was an additional one who stood as a lookout,” French tells JCK. “We had one exemplary employee who locked the door so they couldn’t get into the store, thereby preventing a lot of possible damage.”

The suspects took off on foot and are still at large. Despite the robbery, the store was open for business yesterday, and is awaiting the delivery of a new window.

French says he will be beefing up security, and warns other jewelers to be ever-vigilant.

“Be cautious, be cautious, be cautious—especially this time of the year when everyone has more inventory,” he says. “If you see something that doesn’t look or feel right, act appropriately.”

Store employees also posted a note on its Facebook page:

“We are grateful for the kindness and support New Canaan has given us today. No one was hurt, they did not enter the store. Only the front window was damaged with a few watches missing. Thank you for the outreach of concern!”

Anyone with information about the crime should contact the New Canaan police. 

JCK