212 - Hugh McLachlan

Hugh McLachlan A rare and attractive London ship's chronometer with a 7-day power reserve indicator Case No. 270, Dimensions 210 x 195 x 195 mm, circa 1840, Origin: England Case: Mahogany box, rosewood veneer, screwed-on ivory shield, screwed-on handles, brass gimbals and bowl, with lid and glass. Dial: Silvered, signed, numbered, radial Roman hour markers, large auxiliary seconds, 7-day power reserve indicator, blued spade hands. Movement: Brass movement, chain/fusee, spring detent escapement, heavy chronometer balance wheel with 2 weights and 2 screws, free-sprung helical balance spring. Hugh McLachlan was a prominent English watchmaker and chronometer maker who worked in London during the 19th century. He specialized primarily in the production of highly accurate marine chronometers and precision pocket watches. He operated his workshop at 17 Upper East Smithfield Street in London from around 1810 to 1859. The quality of his work was such that instruments from his workshop were used by the British Royal Navy—identifiable by the characteristic “Broad Arrow” military engraving on their cases. After he retired, the business continued under his name until the end of the 19th century, though it then operated primarily as a retailer of chronometers made by other renowned manufacturers. Today, surviving pieces by Hugh McLachlan are considered historical collector’s items. A famous eight-day marine chronometer from 1850, for example, is part of the collection at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich. Case: very good. Dial: very good. Movement: very good, in working order, cleaning recommended. Please note that some countries prohibit the import of objects made of, or containing, materials from endangered species—such as (but not limited to) coral, ivory, tortoiseshell, or rare tropical woods. For customs-related reasons, these objects cannot be shipped outside the EU. We therefore strongly advise you to thoroughly familiarize yourself with your country’s current customs regulations before placing a bid.