Mimo the jeweler brings personal touch

FINDING MIMO-Mimo Comerci repairs a watch at his store in the Agoura Meadows Shopping Center, 5685 Kanan Road. Finding Mimo busy at work isn't hard to do.

Mimo Jewelers, one of the oldest businesses in Agoura Hills, crafts the latest styles in personal jewelry, from trend-setting necklaces to various ring settings. And because the owner, Mimo Comerci, has been serving the community since 1978 when the shopping center opened, most customers can expect to be served on a first name basis.

They know him simply as Mimo, and whether it's a new creation that uses platinum or some exotic alloy, or a more traditional metal such as silver and gold, the jewelry comes to life in Mimo's hands.

Born 68 years ago in Calabria, Italy, Mimo moved to Argentina with his family following World War II. At age 16 he began learning watch repair from a cousin, but also kept a second job repairing instrument panels on governmentowned airplanes.

"I liked very delicate instruments and their precision," said Mimo in his still thick Italian accent. He learned his craft fixing chronographs, compasses, altimeters and speedometers.

"School can't teach experience," he said. Today's customers ask him to

do everything from regulating a vintage Rolex to replacing a watch battery or adjusting a bracelet. He also specializes in jewelry repair, custom design and engraving.

Mimo began his American experience working for Bulova and Omega factory houses in Los Angeles. He spent five years running his own jewelry store in Burbank before setting up shop in Agoura Hills.

Today, customers come to visit from the San Fernando Valley to Ventura, and even from out of state because they've heard about Mimo's reputation.

"A lot of customers became friends," he said.

Mimo continues perfecting his craft. "I never stopped learning, there's always something new," he said.

Mimo Jewelers is at 5685 Kanan Road. Call (818) 991-4968.