Erie Basin opened in 2006 and quickly became an international destination for its thoughtful and surprisingly modern selection of antique jewelry and furniture. The New York Times wrote that “arguably the most provocative design sensibility right now can be found in Red Hook [Brooklyn], at Erie Basin.” Owner Russell Whitmore has a background in art and a keen eye for special and well-designed vintage pieces, whether they are carved wooden trinkets or extremely rare gemstones. And with 20 years experience buying and selling antique jewelry, he’s developed a masterful knowledge of historical design and construction methods, antique jewelry restoration, and gemology.
Today Erie Basin remains largely a one-man show. Because of that customers are guaranteed only the best service. Russell personally answers emails, sits in the shop during open hours, takes all the photographs for the website, oversees restoration and repair work, packs up shipments, and does all of the buying.
In 2014 Erie Basin launched an in-house fine jewelry line called EB, designed by Russell Whitmore. Many of the pieces are built around antique gemstones that Whitmore collected. The designs are distinctly modern but frequently quote antique motifs. Some pieces are produced in multiples and others are one-of-a-kind. EB is made in New York.
Our Store
Our store is located in the Red Hook neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York. Everything you see online, and more, is available there. Although we specialize in antique and vintage jewelry, we also have a selection of furniture, art, and objects dating from the 18th to mid 20th century. Our store also usually has a greater selection of lower priced goods that aren’t available online.
Hours
Open By Appointment Only Monday to Friday
Scheduled Walk-In Hours:
Saturday, April 19th: 12 - 5
Saturday, May 3rd: 12 - 5
Directions
Erie Basin is located at 388 Van Brunt Street, Brooklyn, New York in the Red Hook neighborhood. Although geographically close to Manhattan, Red Hook is not particularly well served by public transportation. The quickest option is usually taking a car, and street parking is easy. But there are options to reach us by bus and boat as well.
Car: West on the BQE (I-278): Exit at Hamilton Avenue. Make a u-turn at the first light and drive NW on Hamilton towards Van Brunt Street. Turn left at Van Brunt and drive south 11 blocks to Dikeman. East on the BQE (I-278): Exit at Hamilton Avenue. Go straight towards Van Brunt Street and turn left. Drive south 11 blocks to Dikeman.
Boat: NYC Ferry from Lower Manhattan’s Pier 11 to Red Hook. See schedule.
Citibike: There are Citibike docks 1 block north and 1 block south of the store.
Train/Walking: F/G Train to Carroll Street. Carroll Street is a 25-30 minute walk from the store. Walk west on Union and turn left at Van Brunt Street. Walk south to Dikeman.
Train/Bus: A/C/F/R to Jay Street / Metrotech. Take the B61 south and exit at Van Brunt and Wolcott.