Thomas Reid
Thomas Reid (1746–1831), horologist
1746 born in Dysart, Fife, in January.
1762 apprenticed in 1762 to a cousin, James Cowan, an able watchmaker in Lawnmarket, Edinburgh.
After discharge from his indentures, Reid worked for eleven years in London
1777 He married Alexandria, née Ogilvie, the widow of William Auld, printer.
1781 Returned to Edinburgh on the death of Cowan when he succeeded to the business.
1788 a tower clock of his was put up in St Andrew's parish church.
1797 rebuilt the clock of St Giles's Kirk.
1806 Reid's best apprentice, his stepson William Auld (d. 1846), became his partner
1809 moved shop to 33 Princes Street.
Reid experimenting endlessly with different escapements and compensation pendulums for regulator clocks.
1823 Both Reid and Auld retired.
1831 Died on 20 September in Edinburgh
See Also
Sources of Information
- Biography, ODNB