Fine and historically interesting chronometer Circa 1811

Open faced chronometer used and owned by explorer James Weddell
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A fine and historically interesting English 18 carat gold key wind open faced chronometer pocket watch used and owned by the explorer James Weddell, London Hallmark for 1811. Gilt engraved full plate movement, pivoted detent escapement, grotesque mask engraved balance cock, bi metallic z balance with large wedge form weights, helical balance spring, screwed chaton jewels including the fuse, diamond end stone, baluster pillars. White enamel dial, black Roman numerals, black outer minute divisions, subsidiary seconds at 6 and gold spade hands. Polished hinged case, small cartouche with monogram to back. Cuvette and movement signed, case stamped ‘LC’ (Louis Comptesse).
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Diameter: 53 mm
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Signed: Grant Fleet Street London No. 3540
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James Weddell (1787-1834) was introduced to life at sea from an early age when he first became apprenticed aboard a coastal vessel. After spending time forging a successful career both on merchant ships and in the Navy he was appointed to command the brig Jane in 1819.
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One of Weddells most enduring legacies was his voyage into what is now known as the Weddell Sea where on the 20th February 1923 he successfully travelled more than three degrees of latitude further south than any ship had before. This equated to 214 nautical miles farther than the renowned Cook. A celebration amongst the men on board the Jane ensued with three cheers, a salute and the hoisting of colours to commemorate this momentous occasion and would certainly have been encouraged with an extra ration of grog.
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Weddell was particularly interested in scientific methods and although limited in his supply made good use of his nautical instruments, charting coasts and harbourages around the world. From the extensive records he kept it is known that he had three reliable chronometers, numbered 403, 820 and the current example of 3540. All three of these are recorded as deriving from James Murray of Murray and Strachan with the current example branded under the name of John Grant. His attention to detail is visible by observing the records he kept of Longitude noted on pages 239-276 of the accompanying text A Voyage Towards the South Pole. In fact throughout his report on that extraordinary trip the reference to chronometers show just how heavily Weddell and his crew relied on their accuracy.
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The provenance of the watch is further confirmed in Chronometer Makers of the World by Tony Mercer where on page 152 it states under John Grant (1796-1868) ‘pocket 3540 (pocket with pivoted detent owned by Capt. James Weddell, the Antarctic explorer)’.