Aneroid barometer having 4¼” silvered and struck stepped dial, the barometric scale with a range from 26 – 31 inches of mercury with stations on the inch and divided to 10ths. Outer vernier scale on rotation defining one inch and divided to 10ths. The upper part marked “Compensated” and “No 1778,” and having maker’s signature “Short & Mason, London” to lower part. Fine blued steel pointer set beneath a bevelled glass retained in a finely engineered rotating bezel carrying vernier scale.

1st quality 3″ capsule driven movement constructed in steel and brass, the major steel components with japanned finish. Movement marked with date of manufacture “27/2/13.” Substantial spun brass drum-form case with twin opposed cast and gilded mountings. The verso with adjustment port.

The whole contained within a very unusual premiere quality French polished flame mahogany case, the instrument secured upon a heavy green felt-faced platform by opposing mounts. The inner lid with three turned felt-faced buffers, brass piano hinge, secure lever lock and key. The base with green felt facing.

This instrument might be a one off. Short & Mason barometers of this style and quality are very seldom seen. Designed specifically for meteorological observation, it claims many similarities to the Short & Mason chronometer companion also offered on this site. The movements are very similar, though this instrument is later. The timber cases are dimensionally near identical in plan view, with slightly reduced elevation. The means by which the instruments are secured within the timber cases and the piano type hinges are very similar.

Judging by the evident superior quality of this mahogany case in materials and execution, it might suggest a special order or even a Short & Mason director’s piece.

The instrument remains in very good condition, the drum case retaining nearly all its original lacquered finish, minor marks and oxidation spots only. The dial remains bright and vibrant, some light ageing patination. The bezel rotates lightly and very smoothly. The movement in excellent working order and condition being highly sensitive with effectively stepless progression. Maximum recorded error less than 1.5 percent.

Manufactured during the finest period of making at Short & Mason, this aneroid barometer is a really exceptionally instrument, and there is much that sets it aside to similar instruments of the period. It combines the best of hand-craftsmanship with the increasing sophistication in production engineering.

Wonderful aesthetics together with top quality production identify this as very much a collector’s piece.

Dimensions: 6½” wide x 6½” deep x 6¼” high

Stock Code: BA0839

Price: SOLD