James Walsh was born just before the turn of the century in 1889 and opened his shop in Bradshawgate.
In the 1921 he had opened his shop in Kings Hall Buildings, Bradshawgate, after serving over 12 years with Preston’s Ltd.
By August 1927 he had ceased to refer to Kings Hall Buildings, and was in his shop at 67/69 Bradshawgate opposite Nelson Square.
He was a Silversmith and Jeweller his store lasted into recent years, while he isn’t known to have made his own watches he is responsible for a number of branded wrist and pocket watches made in his name.
James Walsh Jewellers, Bradshawgate
Walsh’s watches often had Swiss movements and high quality cases.
A (circa 1905-1920) filled Gold Full Hunter pocket watch by James Walsh, Originally belonging to Frank Druker with an enamelled face with subsidiary Seconds, and a Swiss Movement. Case by Dennison was of their MOON Specification. In this instance MOON means filled gold a layer of gold fixed the the base metal, and far more substantial than gold plate or rolled gold with which its often confused.
A Gold plated Swiss made Wrist watch by James Walsh with 17 jewel movement, circular silvered dial Arabic numerals, subsidiary seconds dial, leather strap
James Walsh was involved in an interesting case with his insurers following an accident in September 1936 where William Wood injured his finger, pricking it with a jewellers screwdriver, it became septic and ultimately had to be amputated, where he also lost 50% of the mobility of three more of his fingers. It would seem that his matchmaking days were over by this time. Wood won his case in a ruling by Judge Crosthwaite on 16th Nov 1938.
In 1941 he acquired Fred Brook’s establishment in Leigh.
James Walsh died 17th Feb 1942 following a brief illness.
The firm of James Walsh Ltd continued after his death.
The firm last advertised on 17th August 1970.