James Collins was born in 1821 and is recorded as being a silversmith, watch and clockmaker, working from 46 Martin Street, Stratford. From the outset, Collins specialised in designing and making much sought after pocket watches with cases made under his own silversmiths’ hallmark. However, from about 1870, Collins also started to produce high quality clocks, having been joined in business by his son William, born 1849, who had served his horological apprenticeship under his father. In c1872, the family business formally changed its operating name to “J. Collins & Son” moving to larger premises at 55 Martin Street, Stratford in the process, from where this clock would have been designed and made. (Nb: Martin Street existed until c2006, when as part of the London 2012 Olympic site clearance plans, it was lost to history)!