Pocket barometer having finely engraved and silvered 2¾” dial signed by the maker “J.H. Steward” with London address “406, Strand & 457, West Strand, London” and serial no. “5562.” Further marked “Compensated,” “Temp Alt Scale 50 degrees Faht.” Twin recording scales, the inner calibrated from 21-31 inches of mercury, the rotating outer from 0-10,000ft altitude. Fine blued-steel pointer; heavy bevelled crystal glass. Knurled, rotating outer ring to bezel carrying the outer altitude scale with 360 degree rotation, and zero marked telltale. Case rear with compensation adjustment port at 8 o’clock. Pillar and suspension ring.  The whole pocket barometer contained within its original maroon Moroccan leather-covered case with emerald green silk and velvet lining.

The aneroid instrument in fine original condition. Retaining virtually all its original bronzed finish, the dial essentially unmarked, the apparently unmarked crystal glass having some points of condensate to inner surface. The case with leather covering lacking to hinge, the bottom edges worn, some abrasions, the closing pin replaced, the hinge repaired.

This pocket barometer, due to its range, was manufactured principally as an altimeter.  It is unusual in that, with the legend “Temp Alt Scale 50 degrees Faht,” it has been set to read correctly at 50 degrees Fahrenheit – by definition the compensation built into the instrument will apply to temperatures above and below this 50 degree datum. This is an indicator of precision engineering and a hallmark of ‘first quality’ instruments. Function excellent.

Dimensions: 3½” diameter x 1½” deep

Stock No: PB0230

Price: Vavasseur Archive