English 18K yellow gold hunting cased duplex watch Circa 1818

Gold open faced pocket watch
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A rare and large English 18 carat yellow gold hunting cased pocket watch with duplex escapement made by James McCabe in London, circa 1818. The case is made by Thomas Warren, with London hallmarks for 1818-1819. White enamel dial with Roman hours, outer minute divisions, subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock and yellow gold spade hands. Dial, movement and cuvette signed, case and movement with matching numbers.
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Diameter: 54 mm
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Signed: James McCabe Royal Exchange London
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The name James McCabe and the House of McCabe are part of a watchmaking dynasty that lasted for over a century. It was renowned for the enormous variety of its designs, and the creativity and prestige of its manufacture. James and his descendants would become one of Britain’s most prolific watchmakers with over 50.000 watches, 7000 clocks and 500 marine chronometers produced in the company’s 100 year history.
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James McCabe was born in 1748 in the town of Lurgan, County Armagh, Ireland, into a family of watchmakers. His grandfather and father, Patrick McCabe, were both skilled horologists.
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Moving to Belfast, James apprenticed under his brother, Thomas, before setting up a workshop in London in 1775, in the Bells Building on Fleet Street, and subsequently, Cheapside and 97 Royal Exchange. His reputation quickly grew, he gained recognition as one of the leading watch and chronometer makers of his era. His timepieces were admired for their elegance, mechanical precision and durability, earning him prestigious commissions from royalty, nobility and prominent merchants. Among notable owners of his timepieces were Lord Horatio Nelson and the first President of the United States, George Washington. McCabe further became a respected member of the Clockmakers’ Company.
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After James’ passing in 1811, his sons continued the business, maintaining the company’s reputation for high quality horology throughout the 19th century.