#15015, Francois Justin VULLIAMY

Baptised at Gingins, near Geneva, Switzerland, his father Nicholas Vulliamy was pastor of Gingins.  His mother was Nicholas' second wife, Theodora Magdelaine Damian.  Before coming to England in 1730 it is understood that he was pursuing a career in Paris as a watchmaker, most probably serving an apprenticeship.  Understanding that London was the 'hub' of the trade with George Graham gaining popularity for inventing the cylinder balance escapement, it is thought Justin understood the merit of being in the right place at the right time, and moved there.  By 1739 he had established himself within the city and his craftsmanship must have become very well appreciated for he was noticed by the well-respected Benjamin Grey.

In 1741 Justin married Grey's daughter Mary and shortly afterwards the business partnership of Benjamin Grey and Justin Vulliamy was born.  Together they built their reputation for producing watches and clocks of great quality.  On the death of Benjamin Grey in 1764 the Royal Warrant passed to Justin and it remained with the Vulliamy family for over three generations.  When he died the majority of his belongings went to his son Benjamin who had already been in the business for some years and who continued to enhance the Vulliamy name.