When Van Diemen’s Land officially became Tasmania in 1856 it is estimated that nearly 200 clock and watchmakers had resided in the colony since 1803. More than 150 were convicts, transported from Britain to relieve pressure on overcrowded prisons.

Some succumbed to the brutality of life in a penal settlement and only a few would work in their trade. But some would flourish in their new home after Doing Time in Van Diemen's Land. This is their story.