An extremely rare brass military issue aneroid bulkhead barometer by Elliott Brothers, Charing Cross, London No. 175, c1857

Military barometer with silvered and engraved brass dial scaled from 27-31 inches of mercury, set within a curved and glazed aperture, blued-steel pointer and index, having heavy scalloped central adjustment wheel engraved with broad arrow British military ordnance mark, “No 175” and “Patent.” The revolving top cover, closing or affording visual access to the barometric scale, the lower portion with maker’s legend “Elliott Bros, Charing Cross, London.” Heavy japanned brass case, the rear with extendable hanger, compensation adjustment port set at 3 o’clock with screwed-down dust plate.

This is an extremely unusual aneroid instrument, which can be dated very accurately.  It is moot as to whether this was army or naval issue: it was clearly designed to be hung, the heavy brass top with its unique revolving aperture designed to protect the fragile glass and instrument below may offer some further clues. Certainly the heavy construction and degree of protection are all consistent with use in a rugged environment rather than a barracks.

The antique instrument in good working order and original condition. Very much a collector’s item.

Elliott Brothers is recorded in Banfield, Edwin, Barometer Makers and Retailers, 1660-1900 as working in Charing Cross from 1857-1858. The partnership between Frederick Henry and Charles Alfred Elliott was formed to take over the business of William Elliott & Sons when their father died in 1853. In 1857, the firm of Watkins & Hill was taken over and the company expanded rapidly, producing some of the best quality barometers of the time.