Antique marine barometer of substantial bronze-lacquered brass construction, 4” silvered dial calibrated from 28-31 inches of mercury, the upper portion with maker’s legend “Callaghan & Co,” the lower with full maker’s address, “23a New Bond Street, Corner of Conduit Street, London.” Rotating outer ring with single index point, fine blued-steel pointer set beneath a bevelled glass. First quality single 2¼” capsule driven movement, compensation to secondary lever. Substantial case having attached side casing set at 6 o’clock with key square operating the index ring. Original detachable key. Compensation port to rear set at 4 o’clock. The whole contained within its high quality green velvet-lined, brass-bound oak case, button closure, lock and key.

The dial with some areas of slight age patination, the brass case retaining virtually all its original lacquered finish, the oak case generally marked with very light abrasions, retaining a good proportion of original lacquered finish, the brass work patinated generally. The instrument and case remain in absolutely original condition.

Highly sensitive with stepless transition, this is a very rare item made to uncompromising quality and absolutely intended for marine use as there is no altitude scale. It is thought these instruments were generally carried onboard racing yachts where below deck space was at a premium and swinging gimballed mercurial barometers a positive hazard. Manufactured in very small numbers – note the lack of serial number.

William Callaghan & Co worked from various addresses in New Bond Street from around 1860 onwards.

Dimensions: 6″ wide x 6″ deep x 3½” high

Stock No: BA0322

Price: Vavasseur Archive