Charles Gretton (1648-1731)

Charles Gretton, born in1648, was one of at least seven children of Charles and Anne. He was baptised at the parish church of Claypole, near Newark in Lincolnshire, on 24^thJanuary 1648. Gretton attended St. Peter’s School, Claypole.

Gretton went to London in 1662 and was apprenticed to Humphrey Downing on 30^thJune. He gained his Freedom of the Watchmakers’ Company on 3^rdJune, 1672. He eventually held the Company appointments of Assistant, Youngest Warden, Renter Warden, Upper Warden before taking office as Master in October 1700. His apprentices included Henry Sully and Joseph Antram.

Gretton made lantern, bracket and long-case clocks as well as numerous watches.

He retired in 1726 but is still recorded at his place of work in Fleet Street in 1727.

Gretton married Mary Phillips at St. Giles, Cripplegate in August 1677. His first son, Philip was baptised the following year at St. Dunstan’s in the West. Later children included two further sons named Charles, John and Ann. In 1695 Gretton was a widower, though he outlived three wives.

Charles Gretton died in June 1731 and was buried at St. Dunstan’s in the West.

References :

Wikipedia

Brian Loomes. Watchmakers and Clockmakers of the World (NAG Press, 2006).

John C. Stevens AHS Vol 4, p40