A unique presentation recording barometer or barograph by Dollond presented to Captain Alexander Simpson by the Shipwrecked Mariners Society after the loss of the S.S. Pericles in March 1910

Barograph constructed principally in lacquered brass generally conforming to the Short & Mason short chassis design, comprising seven autonomous cell pressure sensors, the movement raised on turned pillars over a fluted border, oblong chassis, and comprising twin spindles, levers and drop links, drum registration from a polished aluminium arm with screwed tensioner, ‘bucket’ nib. Calibration screw to primary cross beam. Ink station with original glass bottle and brass dipper. Polished steel arrestor bar.

4½” silvered and die struck circular dial, the outer part with basic meteorological prognostications, the inner scale calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 28” – 31” and divided down to 1/100”, the centre with the Short & Mason registered design no. “428606.” Blued steel pointer of classical pattern.

The 7 day clockwork drum with captive key and push on lid, the bottom plate struck with serial no. “6568,” top plate struck “Pat 3715.02” with guarded platform escapement. Conventional conically mounted spigot with matching numbered sun wheel.

The whole presented on a French polished walnut plinth, having maker’s plate detailing “Dollond, London, No 7519,” and large 5” x 1½” frosted lacquered brass plate detailing “Presented to Captain Alexander Simpson by the Committee of the Shipwrecked Fishermen and Mariners Royal Benevolent Society in recognition of courage and skill shown on March 31st 1910 on the occasion of the loss of the S.S. Pericles off Cape Leeuwin, W. Australia, when the whole of the crew and passengers (495 persons) were safely landed.” Frieze drawer below. Five deep-bevelled glass lift off cover.

Condition: The subject of a full service, conservation, and calibration under laboratory conditions, see performance chart from dynamic test. The instrument working exceptionally well with good sensitivity and easily acceptable accuracy across the barometric range.

The barometer dial with some losses and ageing, the lacquered brass retaining virtually all its original finish and high lustre. The walnut case with good colour and retaining its original lacquered finish. The glasses clean with good prismatic effect and damage free.

Comments: The uncased barograph and dial supplied by Short & Mason, and finished by Dollond to a high standard, the walnut case a clear departure with its slightly wider lines lending aesthetically better proportions.

Instruments such as this supplied by Dollond are quite scarce. This, with its historical connection to a major maritime event, makes it truly unique.

Learn more about the provenance of this presentation barograph HERE.