The current main organ on the west wall of St. James's Church in Antwerp was built in 1884 by Charles Anneessens (Geraardsbergen) on a new gallery. His work displays a unique style, largely based on the French symphonic organ type. However, some characteristic features of his organs may be attributed to influences from organ building in Great Britain, which was an important market for him.

The instrument in Antwerp was the first large symphonic organ in that city. Musically, in its original condition, it was an interesting instrument with a distinctive character of its own. The pipes and windchests are of good quality, but the technical design had several weaknesses that may have accelerated the deterioration of the instrument. In 1956, the organ was thoroughly rebuilt by the Belgian company Stevens, and further changes were made in 1961. Over time, and due to the severe drought in the summer of 2018, the organ once again became almost unplayable.

The restoration of both organs is also planned as part of the overall church restoration. The windchests and pipework are to be restored to their original condition, with the addition of several stops in the positive and pedal. The problematic action will not be reconstructed, but redesigned according to the best examples from the French symphonic tradition. As originally, three Barker machines will be installed again. The wind supply, which has been problematic from the outset, will be renovated by reorganising the original regulator bellows. Since some of the problems were due to the installation being too narrow, the prospect will now be moved forward by approx. 50 cm.

The entire exterior and interior restoration, including the furnishings of the church, is being planned and coordinated by Steenmeijer Architects (Antwerp). The organ restoration project was designed by organ expert Koos van de Linde, who is also supervising it.
The work is scheduled for completion at the end of 2026.