Alex. Dobbie & Son

Alex. Dobbie & Son, Chronometer Makers, &c., 24 & 25, Clyde Place.—

    This firm is perhaps the best known in its very interesting line of business in the west of Scotland. This house was originally established, in 1841, by Mr. Alexander Dobbie, at 20, Clyde Place. Showing remarkable ability in his profession, and being a man of irreproachable character, he secured for his firm in 1850 the agency for Scotland of Barraud of London, the world-renowned chronometer maker, an agency that has been held ever since.

    On the 6th of March, 1848, the Glasgow Bread Riot broke out and the premises were broken into and much valuable property stolen. Mr. William Dobbie, however, with admirable foresight and courage, had locked some of the most valuable articles on the premises into the safe and hid the key, and afterwards defended the premises as long as possible, thus reducing the loss to a minimum. The newspapers made reference to his conduct at the time in the highest terms of praise. Shortly thereafter the business was removed to the present address.

    The stock consists of chronometers, nautical and optical instruments, charts, and books of every description. In the workshops an efficient staff of tradesmen is employed. In addition to Barraud’s agency Messrs. Dobbie & Son have for several years had the honour of being chronometer makers to the Admiralty, and are also Admiralty chart agents.

    The explosion that occurred in 1870 in the Tradeston Grain Mills completely destroyed the workshops of the firm. The firm’s venerable founder died on the 18th of February, 1887, “full of years and honour”, to borrow a Hebrew phrase, He was widely known and highly respected in shipping circles, and during his long business career he furnished in his high class of goods the faithful guides and companions of many storm-tossed mariners. He has left as his successor his son, Mr. John C. Dobbie, on whom the public may safely rely with the same full measure of confidence that the firm has all along been accustomed to enjoy.

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