A scarce twin latitude scales equinoctial sundial compass by Francis Barker for Thomas Watson in original case c1880

Equinoctial sundial having 1⅝″ diameter compass with engraved dial displaying cardinals, intercardinals and false points, both clockwise and anticlockwise. Quadrant scale 0°-90°-0°-90°-0°. Marked “T.W. Watson” to upper part and “4 Pall Mall, London” to lower. Fine bar needle suspended on jewelled pivot under flat crystal. Oxidised brass case with side mounted transit lock and arc of latitude from 0-90°, 2½” silvered chapter ring divided and engraved for both North and South latitudes, with hours running clockwise and anticlockwise from 4am across noon to 8pm. Folding oxidised brass gnomon. Three adjusting screws and two spirit levels.

Complete with its correct burgundy leather over timber, dark blue velvet and imperial purple silk lined travel case, the bottom with paper table for equation of time. Triple swinging catch closures.

Condition: The instrument very crisp, the compass dial clear, the needle easily finding north, the arc and gnomon articulating correctly. The brass case retaining almost all of its original oxidised finish. The chapter ring and arc with most of the original silvering, some marks and wear.

The travel case in very good condition, with just a few marks and losses. The paper table clean.

Comments: This equinoctial sundial compass is a rare instrument, designed to be used in both northern and latitudes by Francis Barker, the respected Victorian manufacturer of white label scientific instruments, and retailed by Thomas William Watson.

Thomas Watson, nephew of William Watson, acquired 4 Pall Mall in 1875 to start his own business before it was renamed Watson Brothers in 1884. A relatively small supplier of scientific instruments and microscopes, Watson diversified into manufacturing and selling firearms, gaining a high reputation for small-bore shotguns.

Francis Barker continued to make these equinoctial sundial compasses into the early 20th century.  A very similar instrument, by then known as the “Universal Sun-Dial,” is advertised in Barker’s catalogue of 1907.

In very good original condition, one for the collector or connoisseur alike, or a very special gift.