A very unusual high quality French aneroid desk barometer mounted at the muzzle of C19th mortar c1880

Aneroid barometer having 2½” white enamelled dial, standard meteorological terms, the barometric scale calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 25” to 31”, divided down to 1/20th, the lower part marked “Aneroid Barometer,” blued steel pointer and gilt brass index, bevelled glass.

The mortar mainly constructed in brass and plated in silver, depressing and elevating through approximately 40°, with elevation wedge and capstan. The whole presented on a bevelled slate plinth, the lower part with gilt brass border.

Condition: The subject of a full service, conservation, and calibration under laboratory conditions. The barometer working acceptably well, see performance chart from dynamic test. The dial with some minor losses at periphery and some signs of minor restoration to the area at “Rain,” very fine hair line crack and small chip to centre.

The mortar retaining some of its original silver-plated finish but patinated overall, the capstan replaced, moves smoothly on trunnions enabling a comfortable observation angle. Small chip to slate plinth at rear.

Comments: This is a rare and very well-engineered piece with all parts fitting precisely. Overall execution is first class. Although unsigned, this would have been the partner to a Guilmet Industrial Series mortar clock.

Presenting well and retaining good patination, a most aesthetically attractive addition to any desk.