A very good lacquered brass aneroid pocket barometer altimeter and thermometer compendium No 6742 by J. Hicks, London, c1903

Pocket barometer having die-struck silvered, stepped dial, the outer part with altitude scale with a range from 0 – 10,000ft divided down to 100ft, inner barometric scale calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 21” – 31” and divided to 1/10th”. Blued steel pointer, bevelled glass, bezel driven index. The inset with standard meteorological terms, and “Compensated,” the lower part signed by the maker, “J. Hicks, Maker, London,” and serial no. “6742,” and semi-circular thermometer, the register calibrated in degrees Fahrenheit with a range from 30° – 130°.

The standard Vidi pattern 1st quality movement driven from a single 1” nickel alloy capsule tensioned on a C spring. Lacquered brass drum form case with engine turned bezel, extension post and suspension ring, calibration port to verso.

Presented within its correct brown leather over timber, cream silk and velvet lined travel case, snap closure on a button release. The outer lid bearing initials and date, “G.C.L. 1903” in gold block.

Condition: The subject of a complete service, conservation and calibration under laboratory conditions, the movement working exceptionally well with any drift only noted at pressures 24”Hg and below, very sensitive with good progression – see performance chart. The dial with minor marks to centre, visible only in critical light, the thermometer with unbroken thread. The brass case retaining a very high proportion of its original lacquer, very minor marks and wear.

The leather case with small losses to leather exterior, remaining structurally sound, both hinge and snap catch in good order, good colour and shine. The fabric interior with signs of ageing and minor wear though retaining much original colour and vibrancy.

Comments: Perhaps one of the more aesthetically pleasing and sought after of the aneroid pocket barometers. A very good example, quite hard to find now and certainly a collector’s piece.