Miniature pocket barometer altimeter with 1½” silvered and die struck dial, the upper part marked “Improved Scale,” “Compensated,” and “Rd. 149175,” together with standard meteorological terms “Rain,” “Change” and “Fair,” the lower part carrying the retailer’s details “B. Mallinson & Co, Huddersfield.” Barometric scale with a range from 23 – 31 inches of mercury, the outer rotating altimetric scale with a range from 0 – 8000 feet, with two further scales divided to 50ft and 100ft respectively. Blued pointer set beneath bevelled glass. Standard movement, dated “9/96,” driven by a single ¾” capsule tensioned on a C spring. Barrel form case, the verso with calibration adjustment port, extension post and suspension ring.

Lid mounted compass with finely set bright steel bar needle, polished reflector ring, “pebble” magnifying crystal with hand painted cardinals and intercardinals, fleur de lys marking north. The whole contained within its leather over wood and green velvet circular case, snap closure on a button release.

Condition: The subject of a full service, conservation and calibration under laboratory conditions, the movement working exceptionally well, see performance chart. Overall in very crisp condition and good working order, the lacquered brass case retaining most of its original finish. The dial with a few light marks, the fleur de lys with losses, the other decorations sound, the pointer a correct replacement. The compass swinging freely, finding north easily. The leather covered case with slight losses, the button replaced.

Comments: This is a very good quality item. The bar needle to the compass mounted within fine cups set to the centre of a twin element magnifier, enabling a bearing to be superimposed upon a chart or map. The magnifier, of good optical design and quality, facilitates the reading of fine details or even lighting fires! Registered design number “149175” was awarded to Francis Barker on 1 May 1890 for the detailed inner scales, which enabled greater accuracy in determining heights.

A very hard to find item, particularly in this miniature size, in very collectable condition.