Bill Dawe, the co-founder of one of the UK’s leading specialist suppliers of long case and wall clocks, has died at the age of 85.
Dawe, who died earlier this month after a battle with cancer, was the founder BilliB clocks in Bournemouth, serving at the helm for 46 years.
Richard Kendrick, managing director of BilliB Clocks and Dawes’ stepson, who served as his right-hand man for 18 years, told WatchPro.com: “Those that know this much-loved family Company will have known Bill Dawe, a businessman who mastered time and was a well-known character who loved to tell a story or two. He loved to pass the time with customers as well as competitors & always had a snappy line in his repertoire. Many will remember Bill Dawe’s well known blue stand at The NEC’s January Jewellery show.”
Dawe was originally the first person to import recliner chairs into the UK but after being advised they wouldn’t catch on, moved into clocks in 1969.
Dawe co-founded the business with business partner Bill Crompton, with BilliB a palindrome of the name Bill, before buying his shares in 1978.
Dawe’s funeral will take place at All Saints Church, Western Road, Poole, Dorset at 2pm on Friday 29th May.
