Antique pocket barometer altimeter compendium having 2½” silvered and finely engraved, engine divided dial, the outer altitude scale with a range from 0 – 16,000ft and divided to 100s of feet, the inner scale measured in inches of mercury with a range from 17 – 31 with stations on the inch divided to 10ths with increments at 2, 4, 6 and 8. The upper portion marked “Compensated;” signed by the maker “Ross, London” to the lower part. Fine blued steel pointer, rotating bezel with index, bevelled glass.

1¾” capsule driven heavily engineered movement, the primary lever pivoting on heavy brass bushes. Drum form case with extension pillar and suspension loop, compensation port to verso.

The whole contained within its very unusual moroccan leather over wood imperial purple silk and velvet lined case, snap closure on a button release. The lid with inset Singers Patent design compass with lock and hinged ink-well style brass cover.

This instrument was clearly designed with the explorer or traveller in mind. Its proportion and evident quality make this a serious proposition for those pursuits.

Smaller pocket type instruments are often seen with accompanying or fitted compasses – this pocket barometer with a compass is very unusual.

The glass with some minor marks, the dial fresh and clean, the case retaining a very high proportion of its original lacquered finish. The leather case generally in fine condition, some signs of ageing and light wear, the release button with a later leather patch.

A very sensitive instrument with excellent progression, serviced, conserved and calibrated. The compass swinging nicely, easily finding north, the lock working correctly.

The entire instrument in exceptional crisp original condition. Very much a collector’s lot.

Dimensions: 3″ diameter x 2″ deep

Stock No: CP0865

Price: Vavasseur Archive