Georgian Bracket Clock by James McCabe, Royal Exchange, London

Georgian Mahogany Bracket Clock by James McCabe, London

Break arch top case surmounted by a brass carrying handle with red silk lined fishscale frets standing on a raised, moulded base and resting on brass ball feet.

Fine quality chain Fusee eight day movement with anchor escapement and border engraving to the shouldered brass plates striking the hours on a silvered bell signed James McCabe, Royal Exchange, London.

Painted dial with Roman numerals, finely pierced and hand cut brass hands signed James McCabe, Royal Exchange, London numbered 1280. C.1785

James McCabe was one of the most prestigious makers of his generation originally born in Ireland (Lurgen, son of Patrick McCabe) c.1748. He then moved to London in 1775 firstly to Cheapside and then moving to 97, Cornhill, Royal Exchange. On the 2nd April 1781 he was made an honorary freeman of the clockmakers company eventually becoming senior warden in 1811.

Many of his fine timepieces both clocks and watches are housed in museums across the world, among notable clients of James McCabe were Horatio Nelson and the first president of the United States George Washington who purchased a McCabe pocket watch in Philadelphia bin 1793.

Clockmakers and Watchamkers of the World by Brian Loomes lists McCabe James (1) Lurgan (Ireland c.1765-1770). Son of Patrick McCabe q.v. then to London (Cheapside and Royal Exchange) 1778. Member of the clockmakers company 1781-1811. His business was continued under his name by his sons.