A very good antique travel compass by Francis Barker, London c1860 in polished mahogany case

Pocket travel compass having 1½” quadrant paper dial, divided to 2°, the inner showing the cardinals, intercardinals and false points, finely drawn fleur de lys to indicate north, decorated centre. Blued steel flat needle, marked “N” and “S” in gilt suspended on a brass pivot. Flat glass contained within a brass bezel. All contained within a highly polished circular mahogany case, transit lock, Barker hidden hinge, swinging hook closure.

Condition: The paper dial in good condition, with a few age marks, the needle swinging freely and finding north easily, the transit lock working correctly. The mahogany case in good condition, a few very light marks commensurate with age and use.

Comments: These round polished wood cased compasses were made in limited numbers, so this is a very scarce instrument, particularly in this condition.

A very unusual and lovely antique compass in good working order, and a perfect gift for a birthday, anniversary or retirement.

An almost identical compass, albeit slightly larger, is shown in Kornelia Takacs’ “Compass Chronicles,” p19.