A very unusual bright plated triptych mid C19th French thermometer, compass and folding weather vane compendium.

The thermometer of circular form set on a bronze lacquered register and calibrated with Reaumur and Centigrade scales having ranges -10° to 40° and -20° to 50° respectively, the centre with “Déposé”, star logo and “G.R“, low dome bevelled glass.

The verso with conventional deep set compass, blued and polished needle, jewelled suspension, bronze lacquered dial with cardinal and intercardinal points, the azimuth calibrated in degrees 0° to 360°, magnetic north indicated by an arrow at approx. 22° West, compass lock on sliding, case-mounted button.

The fold out and fold down glass-mounted weather vane probably constructed in nickel with spring position lock, the vane in arrow form on jewelled suspension, all set below a hinged opening low dome bevelled top glass, case pendant and bow.

Presented in its probably original French burgundy leather over timber, imperial purple silk and velvet lined travel case, snap closure on a button release.

Condition: The thermometer accurate to 1½° at 21½°C, the thread unbroken, the dial crisp and clear, fixing wires replaced. The compass swinging freely, finding North easily, the lock working perfectly, the azimuth with some losses to silvered finish. The weather vane frame articulates easily and with positive positioning, the vane swings easily and with sensitivity.

The bright plated case retaining virtually all its original finish, some minor marks and very light wear. The leather travel case structurally sound, the fabric interior with some fading around the edges, the lid silk with some perishing.

In all this is a very crisp and original instrument.

Comments: This is the only example of this triptych compendium we have been able to find – there are a few similar instruments in style but we have not been able to find any with the combination of the three disciplines, and as such it must be considered extremely unusual.

The overall condition is very good and, given this and its scarcity, this is a real collectors piece.