Issue 1, Summer 2006
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The Oldest Tenant!

For 75 years, Irven 'Jack' Brod has operated his business Empire Diamond Corporation in the
Empire State Building and continues to....

Oldest Tenant of the Empire State BuildingAs I took the short ride in the elevator to the 76th floor, I was in much anticipation of meeting the gentleman named Irven Jack Brod. I did some research into who was the oldest tenant at the Empire State Building and I was told that it was Empire Diamond Corporation. I contacted Empire Diamond and was truly amazed to find out that the oldest tenant was still alive and running his company. At 96 years old, Jack, as all fondly know him, still works 6 days a week and manages his 15+ team of employees.

Irven Jack Brod was born on 29 November 1909. He has traveled the world skiing and sailing and was an active skier until he turned 90 years old. He now battles a little with his balance but still races around with agility on his mobility scooter.

As I walked into his office, I was taken aback by its spaciousness and breathtaking views. Jack even told me that he could see his apartment located on the 18th floor on 36th street from his office. He previously lived in Connecticut and after spending 15 hours per week commuting on the train, he decided to move into the city, which allowed him to spend more time at work in the building he loves. Jack's company Empire Diamond moved into the 7th floor of the Empire State Building on 1 July 1931, exactly 2 months after President Herbert Hoover flipped the switch to officially open the building. Boards covered the floor of the lobby and workmen were still finishing the interior above the 18th floor. After that, he moved to the 14th, 15th and 66th floor and on 1 March 2001, he signed his eighth lease for offices on the 76th floor where he still is today.

Empire Diamond Corporation specializes in both buying and selling diamonds, estate jewelry, gold, semi-precious metals and stones, both in the wholesale and retail markets. Their great purchasing power, fast turnover and expert knowledge enables them to "buy better" and offer the lowest prices to the consumer. As a major supplier to the jewelry trade, they are able to offer diamond rings, gold jewelry, tennis bracelets, diamond necklaces and diamond stud earrings to the public at up to 80% off retail prices.
View from the Empire State Building

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Personals0 Automotive 0



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