Gillett & Johnston Celebrating 160 years of Clock Making Excellence

On the 16th October 2004, Gillett & Johnston celebrated their 160th Anniversary. The business first started in 1844 when William Gillett left Clerkenwell and set up business in Croydon and, other than a short break in the late 1950's, the Company has had its base in Croydon ever since.

1844 was just 7 years into the reign of Queen Victoria and only one year after the launch of Brunel's SS Great Britain! These events seem to put Gillett's place on the map of history and well worth celebrating. From this premise it was a short step to holding a Thanksgiving Service in Croydon Parish Church with the ringing of the Gillett & Johnston bells there.

Gillett & Johnston 160th Anniversary Celebrations

The celebration started with the Whitgift Corps of Drums playing outside the Church in order to welcome all, including the Mayor of Croydon, Councillor Brenda Kirby and her consort.

The Thanksgiving Service was conducted by the Reverend Canon Colin Boswell and commenced with the choir singing 'Ding Dong Merrily on High'. Prayers of thanks were made for the Owners and Staff, both past and present and finished with the ringing of the Gillett & Johnston Bells.

Among those present were members of the present day Johnston family, Lady Rosemary Price and her nieces, Arabella and Sacha.

After the service over 50 guests took the opportunity to visit the Gillett & Johnston Clock and Bell room at the Croydon Parish Church.

A Champagne reception and buffet in the Church Hall was followed with a celebration cake in the shape of a clock taking pride of place on the table.

Speeches were made by Gillett & Johnston directors Stephen and Jenny Coombes and the Mayor - who congratulated the company on 160 years of craftsmanship. The formalities finished with a speech from Mr. Philip Willoughby, the Master of the Worshipful Company of Clockmakers.

Gillett & Johnston 160th Anniversary Celebrations