Antique surveying compass having 4″ hand engraved and decorated quadrant dial showing cardinals and intercardinals, the upper part marked “Fraser, London.” Outer stepped ring displaying 0 – 360 degrees, divided to 1 degree increments. Blued steel bar needle on jewelled pivot, transit lock. Original flat glass contained within spun brass bezel forming side of case. Heavy brass base with fixing screws, push-fit spun brass lid.

Condition: In crisp original condition, the glass unmarked except for two very small firing flaws demonstrating its originality, the bar needle swinging freely and finding north easily, the lid-activated transit lock working well. The brass case undented, with patina and a few small marks commensurate with age and use, the lid fitting smoothly and snugly.

Comments: Although surveying compasses with this style of dial are not uncommon, it is unusual to find one of these surveyor’s compasses with a simple round base, and not one formed with integrated fixing lugs or plates for use with a circumferentor. This example has two spare screwholes in the base to allow for fixing to a circumferentor, but this compass may also be used as a straightforward travel compass.

A substantial and very attractive antique surveying compass.