Negretti & Zambra barograph constructed in grained and lacquered brass and steel, having seven capsule-driven movement, full length chassis with serial no. 2412, polished steel beams and screws, arm guard, contemporary ink bottle, dipper and keeper, substantial centrally mounted thermometer with engraved and silvered twin scales calibrated from 10-120 degrees Fahrenheit and -10-50 degrees Celsius, also annotated “Freezing” and “Blood Heat.” Raised, intricately turned adjustment screw operating on a sub-chassis leaf spring connected to the base of the capsule column. Original arm with contemporary nib, arrestor bar with concealed actuator, conventional 8 day drum no. “2412,” and clockwork movement, captive key, screw down retainer, regulator port with sliding cover, paper clip and cover. Lacquered case with retailer’s ivory plate to front marked “Negretti & Zambra, London.” End raised hinged cover and opposing heavy swinging catches. The top with ornate cast brass folding transport handle located on a heavy decorative back plate, three plain glass panels.

Richard Frères gained a reputation for construction of some of the finest instruments available in the 19th century, and were particularly strong in the design and production of barographs, coming to dominate the English market in the latter part of the century (see Collins, Philip R., Barographs, p35 fig 2.8 and p37, fig 2.10 for an almost identical example). This barograph bears testament to an era of the finest of hand-made instruments.

A fine instrument surviving in remarkably good original condition, it has been the subject of an extensive overhaul including full disassembly of the barometric mechanism, resetting of all levers, re-polishing of pivots, and detailed conservation. The mahogany case with wonderful warm colour retains most of its original lacquer with an absence of any noticeable wear; it too has been disassembled and sympathetically conserved.

A wonderful example of this world famous maker’s work, this barograph is presented in good working order and condition.

Dimensions: 12½” wide x 7″ high x 6″ deep

Stock No: BG0368

Price: SOLD