Pocket barometer having 2⅜” silvered and die struck dial, calibrated in inches of mercury with a range from 26 – 31 and divided to 20ths, the upper part with standard meteorological terms and “Compensated,” the lower signed by the maker “A. Barrett & Sons, 63 & 64 Piccadilly, Lodon W” (sic). Blued steel pointer, rotating bezel with fine index, deep bevelled glass. The 1¼” capsule driven movement tensioned on a C spring. Frosted lacquer drum form case with calibration port to verso.

All contained within an impressive solid silver case, the lid bearing the star of the Order of the Thistle, the silver gilt interior, revealed fully when the barometer is lifted out. The inner lid and the lower case lip carrying hallmarks “A.B & Sons”, London and 1908, the base struck with maker’s name and address.

Condition: The subject of a full mechanical overhaul and re-calibration under laboratory conditions, see performance chart. The silver case with minor marks and abrasions, very shallow small dent to lower case side. The hinge in good order, the lid closes snugly. The barometer working well with good sensitivity and stepless progression.

Comments: A really lovely instrument, the movement almost certainly supplied by Negretti & Zambra. A heavy instrument of obvious quality and fine construction. With its connection to the Scottish chivalry, this is a very collectable and interesting piece.

The Most Ancient and Most Noble Order of the Thistle, an order of knighthood associated with Scotland, is the second highest Order after The Most Noble Order of the Garter (England). The star of the Order of the Thistle, comprises a silver St Andrew’s saltire, with clusters of rays between the arms. An inner circle bears the motto of the Order NEMO ME IMPUNE LACESSIT (“No one provokes me with impunity”), and displays a thistle, the national flower of Scotland, in the centre. 

Although we cannot know for sure, on the assumption that that this was a piece commissioned to commemorate the award of the Order of the Thistle, the two most likely recipients would seem to be Edward Marjoribanks, 2nd Baron Tweedmouth, made a Knight of the Thistle in 1908, and and Gavin George Hamilton, 2nd Baron Hamilton of Dalzell, made a Knight of the Thistle in 1909. 

Dimensions: 3″ diameter x 1¼” deep

Stock No: PB1751

Price: SOLD