Other formats

    TEI XML file   ePub eBook file  

Connect

    mail icontwitter iconBlogspot iconrss icon

The Cyclopedia of New Zealand [Auckland Provincial District]

Howden, James

Howden, James, Watchmaker, Jeweller, and Optician, 92 Queen Street, Auckland. Bankers, Bank of New Zealand. Mr. Howden is a native of Climber Park, Sherwood Forest, Nottinghamshire, England. He learned his business with Messrs Simmons, Bunyan, and Gardner, of Manchester, completed his term in 1857, and subsequently worked in the same city till 1861, when he came to New Zealand by the ship “Black Eagle,” from London. Mr. Howden was all through the New Zealand war; he was on active service for about two years, and served as a volunteer for about five. He established the present business in 1862, and his plant comprises lathes and the latest and best machines and appliances for manufacturing jewellery of all descriptions, and for such delicate work as diamond-setting and engraving. There is also everything that is needful for the watch cleaning and repairing department. Mr. Howden is a direct importer of watches, clocks, jewellery, precious stones, optical goods, and pianos and organs. The shop, which is centrally situated in Queen Street, is built of brick, is one storey in height, and has a floorage space of 900 square feet. One of the largest mirrors in the Colony is fixed behind the counter, and reflects all the beautiful show cases from the other side of the shop, creating a pleasingly interesting illusion as to size. Mr. Howden's business connection extends throughout the whole of the North Island.