Antique aneroid barometer having open-centred 5¾” enamel dial with lacquered brass trim ring to centre, calibrated in millimetres and inches of mercury (“Engl. zoll”) with ranges 710–790 and 28–31 respectively. Standard meterological terms in German, “Sturm, Regen oder Wind, Veränderlich, Schön Wetter, Bestöndig,” the lower part marked “Aneroid Barometer” and “G. Hechelmann, Hamburg.” Lacquered brass bezel set with blued steel screws retaining deep bevelled glass with centre mounted index. Blued steel pointer.

Exhibition grade movement with intricate cast brass and bright plated primary lever and counter balance, lacquered brass smaller parts, the steel chassis with applied decoration, 2¾” capsule tensioned on a coil spring. All contained within a finely turned and carved walnut case with top hanging plate. The verso with calibration adjustment screw.

Unusual in the UK, this instrument presented in typical continental style, the movement designed and finished to complement the overall aesthetic appeal.

At the time of making, the coil spring had been superseded by the ‘C’ spring – though the ‘C’ spring design became generally accepted, there remained a strong following for the original Vidi pattern. There is a substantive argument to suggest the coil spring tensioned movements attained a finer balance, certainly more sensistive to the smallest vibration and thus aiding progression. In view of these characteristics these early instruments had an inherently greater propensity for overall sensitivity. The ‘C’ spring design clearly worked more than acceptably well but perhaps its real advantage lay in reduced weight and production costs.

This is a very fine and handsome instrument, fully serviced, calibrated and conserved.

Georg Hechelmann was a highly respected maker of marine compasses in the 19th century and up to around 1905.

Diameter: 10″ diameter x 2½” deep

Stock No: BA0913

Price: SOLD

Further Information on Accuracy & Function Testing