A scarce double sided aneroid pocket barometer, altimeter, compass and thermometer compendium by J.H. Steward no 781 c1880
Pocket barometer having 1⅞” silvered and engraved stepped dial, the outer bezel operated altitude scale calibrated in feet with a range from 0 – 13,000ft and divided down to 100ft, inner barometric scale calibrated on inches of mercury with a range from 19” – 31” divided down to 1/20”.
The centre signed at the upper part by the maker “J.H. Steward, 66 Strand, London” and serial no. “781,” the lower part marked “Compensated” above semi circular thermometer, the register calibrated in Fahrenheit with a range from 20° – 140°. Fine blued steel pointer under bevelled glass.
The conventional Vidie pattern movement driven from a single 1” nickel alloy capsule tensioned on C spring, partly milled chassis at spindle. All contained within a brass drum form case, the verso with centrally mounted mother of pearl dry card compass on jewelled suspension, marked “Singer’s Patent” and displaying cardinals and intercardinals. Bezel mounted transit lock. Calibration port. Pendant and bow.
Presented in its original oxblood leather over timber, deep blue velvet and cream silk lined two tier case, snap closures on button releases. Lid silk with J.H. Steward logogram and Royal Warrant in gold block.
Condition: The subject of a full service, conservation, and calibration under laboratory conditions, see performance chart from dynamic test. The barometer working extremely well with great accuracy over the major part of its wide range.
The compendium about fine. The compass easily finds north and locks positively. The thermometer working well, reading about 1° high, well within expectation.
The double-sided leather case in very good condition, structurally sound, some wear and marks externally, the fabric interior with some ageing. Both catches working correctly.
Comments: Instruments of this type by this maker must be considered very scarce. J.H. Steward was known for very high quality, a reputation shared with few others.
This is a truly lovely example. Very much a collector’s piece.
Dimensions: 2⅜" wide x 2¾" long x 1½" deep
Stock No: CP2536
Price: Vavasseur Archive - not currently for sale