Pocket barometer having 2½” engine divided and engraved dual concentric dial, the outer altitude scale with a range from 0–5,000ft, divisions set at 100ft, the inner barometric scale calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 26–31. The upper portion marked “Compensated,” the lower signed by the maker “J.H. Steward, 406 Strand, & 457 West Strand, London,” with serial no. “3974.” Fine blued steel pointer, rotating split bezel, the lower with fine index. 1¾” first quality capsule driven movement of conventional pattern, contained within its contoured case with pillar and suspension bow. The verso with compensation adjustment port and screw at 7 o’clock.

The whole contained within its original circular grained burgundy leather over wood cream silk and purple velvet lined case. Snap closure on a button release.

The case lacquer with some losses, minor abrasions with attendant oxidation, the glass with slight hazing, the dial essentially unmarked retaining its original sparkle and vibrancy. The leather case with some distortion, staining, abrasions and wear, the hinge reaffixed. The cream silk discoloured with some signs of deterioration.

A lovely and comparatively early instrument surviving in much better than usually encountered condition. This instrument appears to be one such not encountered before, the bezel is constructed from two autonomously mobile rings, the top supporting the glass which freely rotates, the lower ring with fine index also freely rotational. It would appear that this system may have made allowance for two reference points – that defined by the upper with glass allowing annotation to the glass, the lower making direct reference to the scales. The contoured case is also noteworthy, a pattern not hitherto encountered.

Most definitely a collector’s piece, with lovely condition along with some attributes that make this rather rare.

Dimensions: 3½” diameter x 1½” deep

Stock No: PB0457

Price: Vavasseur Archive