Nickel Brass Barometer Altimeter Thermometer Compass Compendium c1870 – SOLD
Pocket barometer compendium having engraved and silvered 1¾” dial, the upper portion marked with standard meteorological terms, “Rain,” “Change,” “Fair” and “Compensated,” outer rotating altitude ring having a scale set from 0–15,000ft, barometric altitude scale set to inches of mercury with a range from 18–31, fine blued steel pointer.
Conventional pattern single 1¼” capsule driven lacquered brass movement by Negretti & Zambra. One piece barrel form case having suspension ring. The verso with circular thermometer set to a decorated and silvered register, having Fahrenheit’s scale from 15–150 degrees. To the centre, Singer’s Patent compass with floating mother of pearl card marked with cardinals and intercardinals, compass lock. Barometer compensation screw port at 6 o’clock.
The whole contained within its original oxblood grained leather over wood cream silk and imperial purple velvet lined double case. Snap closure on twin button release.
These pocket barometer compendium instruments are quite scarce in any event. This, however, is a particularly interesting example having been the personal property of a Purser with the White Star shipping line. The case finish, nickel plate, is quite an unusual choice and seldom seen.
The barometer altimeter, serviced and calibrated, working well with good sensitivity and progression, the contemporary thermometer, replaced early in the instrument’s life, with unbroken mercury thread, the compass swinging freely, easily finding north. Retaining virtually all its original plated finsh, the leather case with minor losses and abrasions but with good colour and integrity, the fabric lining sound.
An unusual and very attractive item, and certainly a collector’s piece.
Dimensions: 3″ diameter x 1½” deep
Stock No: CP0455
Price: SOLD