Frank WATSON

He was born at Rochdale, Aug. 20, 1866. He is a pupil of the late J. Priestnall. When about thirteen years of age he had the misfortune to become affected with hip-joint disease, which invalided him for a long number of years, and it was during his convalescence that he got acquainted with Mr. Priestnall, and, becoming enamoured with the art of violin-making, was taught by him the method of construction. He ultimately started work on his own account, and up to date he has built seventy-three violins, one viola, and two 'cellos. He has also repaired a great number of instruments. He works chiefly on the Strad and Joseph outlines, and occasionally on an original model. The workmanship is good, and the tone large and telling. Watson is a skilled repairer.