History

Brufords was originally established in 1884 by William Bruford at Eastbourne, Sussex. On his death his son Albert purchased further premises at 241 High Street, Exeter and his younger brother Ernest was despatched to run the business. Once the magnificent town house of the Earls of Morley it still retained many original features including panelled rooms and splendid fireplaces. It became renowned not only for fine jewellery and silver but antiques including furniture and glassware.

Brufords became a famous landmark in the city particularly for the highly distinctive clock depicting "Old Father Time" that hung above the premises. It was carved by the renowned Exeter ecclesiastical sculptor Harry Hems whose workshop was situated in Longbrook Street.
Older residents of the City will remember that "The Bruford Clock" was the meeting place for young lovers before the war - many of whom returned to buy their engagement rings at the shop.

Sadly on the night of May 2nd 1942 the premises at 241 High Street was completely destroyed by an incendiary device during the Exeter Blitz.

Having lost the entire the building Brufords set about finding temporary premises to continue running the business. A shop was the found at 5 Central Station Buildings (now a music shop) and remained trading there until the city centre was rebuilt in 1957.

A new and then very modern shop was opened at 1 Bedford street in 1957 and the business continued in those premises until it was forced in early 2000 to relocate once again, this time by the redevelopment of Barclays Bank.

The current shop at 17 The Guildhall Centre, adjacent to Queen Street continues the traditions of quality and personal service built up over 100 years in Exeter. Although smaller premises, the extensive windows display a vast range of jewellery, watches, silver and gift items.