William Edward Watson
William Edward Watson (c1866-1932), Managing Director of the Atlas Metal and Alloys Co
1932 Obituary [1]
WILLIAM EDWARD WATSON, late Managing Director of the Atlas Metal and Alloys Company, Limited, died at his home at Winchmore Hill, London, on May 28, at the age of 66.
Some eighteen months ago Mr. Watson was the victim of an unfortunate accident at his London Club, where he slipped while descending the stairs, seriously injuring both his knees and depriving him of the use of his legs for some period. Although he recovered partly from his accident, he was not able to withstand the strain which was placed on him when he endeavoured to resume his usual active life.
An Original Member of the Institute, his first working years were spent on the sea, but when he was still quite young Mr. Watson became interested in the metal business, and after a few years' experience he took over the management of the Atlas Company upon its formation early in the present century.
He was a great traveller, and built up the world-wide connection of his company by journeys to the Continent of Europe and various other parts of the globe. He made a study of the actual working conditions wherever his firm's alloys were used, and it was this intimate touch with his customers' requirements which enabled him to introduce brands of metals bearing his own name and that of his company, and to withstand the growth of competition during more recent years. Mr. Watson was of a kindly and genial disposition, and had the happy knack of being able to make himself persona grata to men of all classes, creeds, and nations; his loss will be deplored by his many friends throughout the world.