An unusually small mariners nautical pattern pocket compass with annotations for diurnal variation c1840

Very small antique mariners pocket compass having 1¼” hand drawn floating card dial with nautical pattern rose, displaying cardinals and intercardinals, fleur de lys indicating north, suspended on a brass pivot. Flat glass held in brass bezel. All within a drum form case with push fit lid containing hand annotations for diurnal variation for May 8th and Sept 10th at Lat 52°N.

Condition: Generally crisp overall, the brass case with patina commensurate with age and use. The floating card with signs of ageing, the glass with light marks. Compass quickly and easily finds North.

Comments: An unusual and attractive pocket compass, rare in this very small size, and with the additional interest of the diurnal variations for May 8th and Sept 10th – Lat 52° N is approximately 50 miles north of London.

Very collectable and a wonderful gift.