True engineering visionary who founded the JAP concern, named after Prestwich's initials. They specialised in scientific instruments, cinematographic machines, and mostly in engines, whether they were for racing cars, road cars, bikes, lawnmowers and even aeroplanes, all from their factory in Tottenham. The firm continued after John's death in 1952. His cinematographic cameras were pioneering and they captured Queen Victoria's Jubilee and Scott's Antarctic Expedition. He also formed a business for painting lead pencils. The JAP name disappeared in 1957 when it merged with Villiers.

Biography last updated 21 Jul 2018