Edward Dent

Edward John Dent (1790-1853) was a well regarded watchmaker from England famous for his highly accurate clocks and marine chronometers. Dent learned his trade from Richard Rippon and established a fine reputation (1815-29) as a builder of accurate chronometers. This reputation earned him work from the Admiralty and the East India Company. In 1829, Dent solidified his reputation by creating a chronometer that incorporated an improved movement of redcing the timing errors caused by fluctuations in temperature.

He was a partner of John Roger Arnold from 1830 until 1840. Together they manufactured first-rate clocks and watches. Afterwards, as the owner of three clock shops in London, he attracted the esteem of Sir George Airy, the astronomer royak, who recommended him as the maker of a large clock tower for the Royal Exchange. Dent built and installed this timepiece in 1844.

Perhaps Dent’s most famous commission was to make Big Ben. Unfortunately, he died before he could complete the project. It was completed by Frederick Rippon Dent (Edward’s step-son) in 1854.

For more information on Dent visit http://xinkaishi.typepad.com/a_new_start/2007/04/ft_edward_john_.html

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