James Watt Tools query

[redx]

Hi,
I was given a set of hole punches made by "James Watt Tools, Australia". I like to know what the history of this company(?) is but can't find anything useful with a google search, so I thought I check here.

Does anyone have any info about James Watt and his tool company please?

[Boringgeoff]

The HTPAA directory of Australian tool makers has them listed:

WATT TOOLS

James Watt Tools

Vic

Nail punch, set pin punches in box

Cheers,
Geoff.

[redx]

The HTPAA directory of Australian tool makers has them listed:

Thanks Geoff. I was hoping to learn their history. I read somewhere that the company was started by Albert Watt in the 1930's, so I'd like to know what happened to him, and why or when it was named James Watt Tools.

Regards,
redx.

[hiroller]

There is a mention in the Hardware Journal from 2018 that Mumme Tools purchased James Watt Tool in 2008 and dropped the name in 2018.
AUSTRALIAN HARDWARE JOURNAL

Screen Shot 2024-04-02 at 11.42.06 am.jpg

Mumme tools are now owned by Klein Tools.


The HPTAA mentions that James Watt Tools were made by Finlay Engineering Co Pty Ltd.
JAMES WATT TOOLS 1 - Directory of Australian Makers - Full List - Hand Tool Preservation Association of Australia Inc.

This company name was cancelled in 2017.
Finlay Engineering Co. Pty. Ltd. - Company Information - Australia Check

HPTAA also mentions Finlay Engineering making Finkal Tools and Finkal Watt Tools.
FINKAL - Directory of Australian Makers - Full List - Hand Tool Preservation Association of Australia Inc.
FINKAL WATT - Directory of Australian Makers - Full List - Hand Tool Preservation Association of Australia Inc.

Not much but its a start.

[redx]

Thanks hiroller,

I did find a couple of those links myself but thanks anyway. The write up about the Mumme Tools re-branding says "James Watt Tools have been synonymous with high quality, engineering-standard punches and chisels for decades". It's strange that I'm finding it so difficult to learn anything about a company with such well a regarded reputation. I can't say I've ever seen a James Watt Tools chisel, but the punches I have certainly are good quality.

Cheers,
redx

[hiroller]

I think they are referring to cold chisels rather than woodworking chisels.
Like these:
Toolex | Punch & Chisel Set 6Pc Watt