James McCabe Bracket Clock for Sale

Clockwise is proud to present an exceptional and historically important James McCabe bracket clock for sale, a piece that stands at the very highest level of Regency-period horology. This remarkable clock is not only a masterpiece of craftsmanship by one of the most celebrated clockmakers in history, but it also carries unique Great Western Railway provenance, elevating it far beyond the ordinary bracket clock.

Made circa 1810, this outstanding example was produced by James McCabe of Royal Exchange, London, a name synonymous with the finest quality clockmaking of the late Georgian and Regency periods. McCabe clocks rarely appear on the open market, and when they do, they are rightly regarded as serious collector pieces. This example represents a rare opportunity to acquire a clock of genuine historical, mechanical, and aesthetic significance.

A Bracket Clock with Unique GWR Provenance

What truly sets this clock apart is its extraordinary railway provenance. This clock was presented by Wyndham Raymond Portal, 1st Viscount Portal, GCMG, MVO, DSO, PC, the last Chairman of the Great Western Railway, to Keith Walter Chamberlain Grand, the first Regional Manager of British Railways Western Region following nationalisation. The Western Region evolved directly from the GWR, and this presentation firmly links the clock to one of the most important transitions in British railway history.

It is widely believed that this clock would have resided at Paddington Station, the headquarters of the newly formed Western Region. Adding further credibility and collectability, the clock retains its original numbered ivorine presentation plaque, mounted beneath the case. Provenance of this calibre is exceptionally rare and places this clock in a different league to comparable examples.

Twin Fusee, Eight-Day Movement of the Highest Quality

This James McCabe bracket clock is fitted with a wire-driven twin fusee, eight-day movement, a clear indicator of top-tier craftsmanship. The movement features shouldered plates and five knopped pillars, with fine detailing throughout, including foliate engraving to the backplate, which also bears the maker’s name and place of work.

The movement has just been fully overhauled and is in fine original condition. It strikes the hours on a beautifully tuned bell, producing a clear and refined sound entirely appropriate for a clock of this stature. A strike/silent lever is discreetly positioned at the XII on the dial, allowing the hourly strike to be silenced if desired, and the presence of the original travel-stop is an important and increasingly rare feature, particularly valued by collectors.

The clock is supplied with Clockwise’s standard three-year guarantee, offering complete peace of mind and underlining the quality of both the clock and the work carried out.

Superb Regency Mahogany and Brass Inlaid Case

The case is a stunning example of Regency Gothic lancet design, constructed from rich mahogany and enhanced with fine brass inlay. Standing at an impressive 49cm (19.3 inches) tall, the clock has strong visual presence without being overpowering, making it suitable for both formal and domestic settings.

The case is further complemented by original brass carrying handles, lined fishscale frets to the sides, and beautiful decorative brass feet, all of which remain in excellent original condition. The front of the case features elegant ebonised framing, a refined detail that adds depth and contrast to the overall design.

Two original working locks are present, a highly desirable feature. One secures the glazed oak back door, allowing access to the movement, while the second secures the heavy cast brass bezel at the front, which retains its original convex glass.

Exceptional Dial and Original Components

This antique clock is fitted with an eight-inch convex dial, mounted on its original baseplate and preserved in extraordinary condition. The dial is signed “James McCabe, Royal Exchange, London”, the signature reserved for his finest work, as noted by the renowned horological scholar Granville Hugh Baillie.

The appearance of the dial is enhanced by a pair of correct period hands, secured by the original collet and tapered steel pin. The clock also retains its original regulated scale pendulum, another detail that reflects the exceptionally high standard applied to every aspect of McCabe’s work.

James McCabe – A Clockmaker of World Importance

James McCabe was the son of Patrick McCabe, himself a skilled watchmaker. Born in Lurgan, Ireland, James McCabe arrived in London in 1775 and established his business in Fleet Street at the age of 27. By 1802, he had relocated to 97 Cornhill, Royal Exchange, London, the address from which many of his greatest masterpieces were produced.

McCabe’s work was commissioned and owned by some of the most prominent figures in history, including Admiral Lord Nelson, President George Washington, and Tsar Alexander I of Russia. His clocks and watches were exported worldwide and were regarded as benchmarks of quality in their time. McCabe was an Honorary Freeman and Senior Warden of the Clockmaker’s Company, further cementing his standing within the craft.

Following his death in 1811, the business continued under his sons James, Thomas, and Robert McCabe, all of whom were accomplished clockmakers in their own right. Together, the McCabe dynasty produced some of the finest clocks of the late Georgian and Regency periods.

A Rare Opportunity from Clockwise

While other bracket clocks of similar appearance exist on the market from lesser makers, they are often unrestored and can require significant investment, with movement overhauls, case refurbishment, and dial restoration quickly exceeding several thousand pounds. This example has already been professionally overhauled and preserved, representing exceptional value for a clock of this quality, maker, and provenance.

Clockwise specialises in longcase and bracket clocks and is widely recognised as The Cotswolds’ Leading Antique Clock Restorer and Dealer. Serving clients from the worlds of business, film, sport, royalty, and aristocracy—while remaining equally committed to private collectors – Clockwise has built an unrivalled reputation for excellence, scholarship, and service.

This James McCabe bracket clock for sale is offered at £4,750 and represents a rare chance to acquire a museum-quality timepiece with genuine historical importance, outstanding craftsmanship, and impeccable provenance.

You can view the full listing here.

Additional details

Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA890483
Dateline: Regency period
Height: 49cm (19.3 inches)
Width: 24.2cm (9.5 inches)
Depth: 15cm (5.9 inches)
Category: Bracket Clocks
Brand: James McCabe