Robert Thwaites was born 4 April 1774 in Sunderland, Durham, England, baptized 10 July 1774, son of John Thwaites & Margaret his wife. [This could be Margaret Tinker or Margaret Palestor.
Robert married Ann Bell, 11 April 1797 in Barnard Castle, Durham, England.
Their son Robert Bell Thwaites born 12 June 1808 baptized 18 August 1808 was also a watchmaker/clockmaker.
http://trees.ancestry.com/tree/4008801/person/-1662416860this is a good link to site with more info and pictures of clocks.