A small and rare mahogany longcase regulator, James Breese, London, circa 1850

10-inch silvered dial with outer minute ring enclosing subsidiary hours and seconds dials and signed J Breese, London, the seconds dial with open centre revealing a dummy escape wheel, the substantial movement with five screwed pillars, dead beat escapement, maintaining power, high count train, the mercury pendulum with foliate engraved gilt-brass frame, roller suspension and separately suspended on a cast bracket fixed to the backboard, the solid mahogany case with well figured veneers to the front, flat top and bevel glazed side panels to the hood, glazed trunk door and crossbanded plinth on bun feet

Dial in generally good condtion but would benefit from re-silvering. Movement is complete and original but much in need of a clean. Case in generally good condition, vertical crack to left front of plinth, both rear bun feet detached, other minor marks and scuffs. With pendulum (mercury decanted into plastic jar for storage), brass cased weight, winder and case key.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

James Breese is recorded as working in Clerkenwell between 1836 and 1853 but is probably best known as the secretary of the committee to establish the British Horological Institute in 1858.