Our History
E.A. Combs is the most established commercial clock supplier in the UK, with a long-standing reputation dating back to 1895. We have a long-standing history of providing quality clocks, and are proud to share our story.
Our Story
E.A. Combs Limited is a privately operated and financed company based in South Woodford, on the borders of northeast London and Essex. The company’s origins go back to 1895 when German immigrants decided to import clocks from the Black Forest and sell them by travelling to the UK.
After the conclusion of World War I, it was decided that the company’s name should be changed from its German origin. The commercial traveller many customers knew was Mr Ernest Albert Combs, which is the basis of the company today.
For many years until the late 1970s, E.A. Combs Limited represented the most significant German clockmaker, Gebr Junghans, who marketed a range of domestic and commercial clocks and industrial timing devices. Throughout this period, it was a family-run business by descendants of the original owners.
In 1981, the company was sold to the Biddle & Mumford group of companies, chaired by Frank Williams and assisted by his wife Audrey, son Richard, with John Gascoine appointed as Managing Director.
The Directors purchased E.A. Combs Limited in 1991, and the company remains independent today. It is run by John and Richard, ably assisted by staff members with many years of experience.
Meet The Directors
National Sales Manager
Steve Choppen
Steve Choppen has over 15 years of experience in the clock industry handling large projects, including the Bank of England, Barclays and Papworth and Addenbrooke’s hospitals and education projects across the UK.
General Manager
Chris McCready
As the general manager with over 25 years of experience working for E.A. Combs, Chris McCready has worked in Technical—manufacturing, repairing, and servicing clocks and clock systems. Chris brings a wide range of knowledge to the running of E.A. Combs Ltd.
