Pocket barometer compendium having engraved and silvered 1¾” dial, the upper portion marked “Compensated,” the lower portion  marked “Negretti & Zambra” and serial no. “20068,”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 set beneath bevelled glass. Conventional pattern single 1¼” capsule driven lacquered brass movement.

Three piece oxidised brass drum form case with ribbed detail, knurled compass and barometer bezels, suspension ring, calibration port (accessed with compass detached).  Detachable push-fit magnetic compass with bevelled glass, printed Verners Pattern III card marked with cardinals, intercardinals and secondary intercardinals, jewelled suspension, transit lock.

The whole contained within its original oxblood grained leather over wood green silk and velvet lined double case, nicely marked to lid silks in gold block with maker’s signature “Negretti & Zambra, Scientific Instrument Makers, London” and logogram “N&Z.” Snap closure on twin button release.

The barometer altimeter, serviced and calibrated, working well with good sensitivity and progression, the compass swinging freely, easily finding north. Retaining virtually all its original finish with minor wear only, the leather case in exceptionally fine condition, both internally and externally.

Pocket barometer compendia may be considered relatively scarce. This combination of maker, exceptionally unusual compass and overall condition underline the real desirability of this piece. Aspects of particular interest are the very extended range of the altitude scale to 15,000ft, the oxidised brass finish to the case, and the Verner Pattern III compass card.

An unusual and very attractive item, in very fine condition, and certainly a collector’s piece.

Dimensions: 3″ diameter x 1½” deep

Stock No: CP0561

Price: Vavasseur Archive