A very good vintage pocket barometer altimeter by Short & Mason no. L16836 specifically for Harrods of Knightsbridge, London c1935

Pocket barometer altimeter having 1¾” silvered and struck twin-scale dial, the outer altitude scale with a range from 0–16,000ft, the inner calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 17–31, the upper portion marked “Compensated for Temperature” and serial “No. L. 16836,” the lower portion with the retailer’s name “Harrods Ltd, Opticians, London” and “Made in Gt Britain.” Fine blued steel pointer set beneath a bevelled glass maintained within a rotating bezel with associated altitude scale. Conventional compensated 1¼” capsule-driven movement stamped with the Short & Mason “S&M” logogram, all contained within a barrel-form case with engine-turned end rings. Unique decorated suspension post and ring. Verso with compensation port set at 8 o’clock.



The whole contained within its dark brown grained leather over wood green velvet and silk lined case, snap closure on a button release

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Fully serviced, conserved, and calibrated under laboratory conditions, this pocket barometer works well and responds with good sensitivity. The lacquered brass case retaining virtually all of its original finish; the leather case in fair condition, the underside subject to some wear and creasing.


This is an unusual pocket barometer in very good condition, the bow a specific design for Harrods. With its quality of build, its attractiveness, and its unique connection to the iconic London department store, this is surely a collector’s piece.