A unique lacquered brass aneroid pocket barometer altimeter scaled to 24,000ft by J. Hicks for Edward Whymper, Victorian mountaineer, c1878

Pocket barometer having 1¾” engine-divided die struck silvered dial, the outer altimetric scale calibrated in feet with a range from 0 – 24,000ft divided down to 100ft, the inner barometric scale calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 13” – 31” divided down to 1/10. The upper part marked “Compensated,” the lower signed “J. Hicks, 8 Hatton Garden, London.” Blued steel pointer, bevelled glass, bezel operated index.

The high finished finely poised Vidie pattern movement driven from a single 1⅛” capsule tensioned on a C spring. All contained within a ribbed semi barrel form lacquered brass case, pendant and bow, the verso with calibration port and engraved “F.” Presented in its original burgundy leather over timber, cream silk and dark blue velvet lined case, snap closure on a button release.

Condition: The subject of a full service, conservation, and calibration under laboratory conditions, see performance chart from dynamic test. The movement working exceptionally well with excellent stepless resolution across the scale.

The dial fine, the brass case retaining virtually all its original finish, minor points of oxidation and minimal losses, the bow worn. The travel case about fine, retaining virtually all external high finish, some colour loss, the internal fabric with some age spots to lid silk, otherwise bright and vibrant.

Comments: Certainly a unique piece, formerly the property of Edward Whymper, the long altitude scale is the first such seen on any comparable instrument and would have been a special order. The travel case similarly of higher than usual specification, again suggesting a special order.