This view shows Crayford's intensely industrial character. The industrial area dominating the view includes the traditional 'original' industries of silk and calico printing and the more modern armaments works of Vickers, later Vickers Armstrong.

Vickers dominated the town, providing housing for its workers, building what became the town hall (previously, the works canteen) and the town's theatre.

The clock tower was built by Dartford Rural District Council in 1902.

It doubles as a commemoration of the coronation of Edward VII and, as the vented cupola suggests, a sewage lift station. Trolley buses were in operation from 1952 until 1959.