A very good unusual aneroid barometer and compass double-sided compendium by Francis Barker for CSSA Ltd (Civil Service Supply Association) c1895

Pocket barometer having 1¾” silvered and die struck dial, outer bezel operated altitude ring calibrated in feet with ascending and descending scales calibrated in feet divided to 50ft with ranges 0 to 7,000ft, and 0 to -1,000ft respectively. The barometric scale calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 23” – 31” divided to 1/20”, the upper part with standard meteorological terms and marked “Compensated,” the lower part carrying the retailer’s details “C.S.S.A. Ltd, London. EC.” Blued steel pointer, bevelled glass.

The standard pattern Vidie movement driven from a single 1⅛”nickel alloy capsule and tensioned on a C spring. Bi-metallic compensation to primary lever. All contained within a semi barrel form ribbed case, engine turned grip to bezel, pendant and bow, calibration port to verso.

The detachable pushfit compass having 1¾” hand decorated mother of pearl floating card marked “Singer’s Patent,” with cardinals and intercardinals, Singer’s trademark star and lyre to north. Gemstone suspension, compass lock to periphery.

Presented in their original double-sided travel case of burgundy leather over timber, green silk and velvet lined. Snap closure on a button release.

Condition: The pocket barometer the subject of a full service, conservation, and calibration under laboratory conditions, see performance chart from dynamic test. The movement functioning as intended with excellent accuracy across the extended range. The dial clean and clear, the altitude ring moving with correct resistance, the glass clear. The brass case retaining most original lacquered finish, some minor ageing and oxidation.

The compass serviced, easily finding north, the card crisp and undamaged, the transit lock working correctly. The lacquered brass case retaining virtually all its original lacquered finish with some minor ageing and slight losses.

The travel case crisp and sound, retaining much of its original gloss finish, the fabric interior clean, rich and vibrant.

Comments: Although unsigned, this compendium is almost certainly the work of Francis Barker, the highly respected maker of scientific instruments, whose main business was producing white label instruments for retailers to badge as their own.

Civil Service Supply Association was a department store on the Strand, London. Founded in the 1860s on Victoria Street, the shop moved to the Strand in the following decade, remaining open until 1982.

More can be read about the origins of CSSA Ltd here.