Our History

Martin & Co has been based in Cheltenham since it was founded in 1806. Still a family run business today, find out more about our history below.

1806

During George III’s reign, a clockmaker named Samuel Martin opens a business on The Strand in Cheltenham.

1838

Queen Victoria presents Martin & Co with a royal warrant.

1841

The company moves to its present site at 19 The Promenade in Cheltenham.

1890

George Dimmer, mayor of Cheltenham and founder member of the Rotary Club, acquires the business and changes the name to Martin & Co.

1912

Martin & Co becomes one of the first limited companies in the country.

1929

Leonard Dimmer takes over from his father as Managing Director.

1930

Michael Dimmer joins the family business.

1935

Martin & Co creates the Cheltenham Gold Cup for the jewel of the National Hunt Racing calendar. 

 

1959

Ian and Nigel Dimmer start at Martin & Co. Alexandra and her brother, Jonathan, have since become the fifth generation to join the family business.

2006

Martin & Co celebrates 200 years as the county jewellers.