Pocket barometer having 1⅞” silvered and engraved dial, the rotating bezel driven altitude ring calibrated in feet with a range from 0 – 8,000ft divided to 20ft, the inner barometric scale calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 23” – 31” divided to 50^th of an inch. The upper part with concentrically placed standard meteorological terms, the lower part marked “Compensated.” Blued steel pointer, bevelled glass. Extension post and suspension ring. Conventional pattern movement driven from a single 1” capsule tensioned on a C spring.

The compass mounted to the centre of the verso, bar needle with jewelled suspension, bezel operated lock. The card with cardinal points illuminated red, inter-cardinals and compass rose. The thermometer of circular construction and mounted to an engraved and silvered register calibrated in degrees Fahrenheit with a range from 0 – 120, divided to two degrees. Compensation port.

All contained within a ribbed drum form lacquered brass case with engine turned finish to barometer. Extension post and suspension ring. The whole contained within twin lidded leather over timber, green silk and velvet lined travel case. Snap closures on button releases.

Condition: The subject of extensive conservation and mechanical overhaul. Tested and calibrated under laboratory conditions, see performance chart.

Barometer – It has been possible to set this instrument up to resolve a very much better than average performance. Very good sensitivity and stepless progression. The dial with minor marks and signs of age remains clear with good definition. The bezel and associated altitude ring operates smoothly.

Compass – Swings freely, easily finding north. The card remains crisp and clean with only minor signs of ageing. The compass lock works perfectly, operated by turning the compass bezel – this is slightly tight but once appreciated for its operation, easily locked and unlocked.

Thermometer – Unbroken strand, indicating well.

Travel Case – Retaining a very high proportion of its original finish, some very minor wear and slight discolouration at points. The interior fabrics vibrant.

Comments: The movement unsigned, but almost certainly by Negretti & Zambra. As these instruments go this must be considered a fine example, working well in all respects and absolutely original. Pieces such as this are becoming increasingly difficult to find.

A collector or connoisseur’s piece alike.