1810s Satinwood Month-going longcase clock, McCabe

Object Description

A rare month-going Regency satinwood longcase clock of small proportions by James Macabe.

The caddy top satinwood case is painted to a very high standard, all is in exceptionally good condition. The trunk is well-painted with a profile portrait of George IV over his Prince of Wales Plume and a depiction of a classical scene with two veiled ladies at an altar. The base is painted with the Goddess of Love, and is raised on a shaped apron and splayed bracket feet.

The month-going timepiece movement has a larger than average brass-bound weight.

The original white painted 11-inch dial is delicately painted with a floral garland to the centre, and is signed Macabe, London at the top. It has matching spade hands.

Height including finial 82 inches (207 cms).

Object History

The previous owners of this clock were given to believe that this clock was given by George IV (when Prince of Wales) to one of his mistresses. Of course, this can only be speculation.

James McCabe were a family of watchmakers who traded under that name from around 1760 to 1883.James McCabe Snr was born in Lurgan, Ireland, moved to Belfast then to London in 1775. Clockmakers Company 1781 – 1811. Succeeded by his sons James, Robert, Thomas, and the business continued until 1883.
It is known that the finest watches produced were signed James McCabe, second quality McCabe, and the lowest quality Beatson. In addition clocks have been found signed Macabe on the dial, and McCabe on the movement, for reasons as yet unknown.

Object Condition

The movement is pictured here prior to servicing, but will be overhauled and guaranteed for 3 years.

Object Details