A very good commemorative silver cased aneroid pocket altimeter barometer by J. Hicks No 8166 c1906, with case by Albert Thomas Oliver, 0-20,000ft

Silver pocket barometer having finely engraved and silvered 2” dial signed “J. Hicks, Maker, London,” no “8166” and “Compensated.” Having twin scales 0-20,000 ft and 15 – 31 inches of mercury. Fine blued steel pointer, rotating bezel with fine index marker. Bevelled crystal. 1” single capsule driven movement, blued steel hair spring, offset cock and bimetallic temperature compensation.

Fine silver hallmarked open face watch case by Albert Thomas Oliver working in Clerkenwell. Pillar with pinned suspension loop with maker’s mark ‘GD’ and date letter ‘f’ for 1901. The verso with compensation port, London hallmarks for 1906 and engraved “1905 Col de Collon 10 270 ft.”

Contained within its original fine cream silk and deep blue velvet lined maroon leather over wood case with snap closure on a button release.

An interesting piece presumably presented in commemoration of an expedition or competition of 1905 during which an altitude of 10,270ft was reached whilst negotiating the Alpine Haute Route pass Col de Collon. Remaining in very fine original condition together with its undoubtedly original leather case. The two different date letters struck on the case and bow are normal – cases and parts were manufactured and assayed in batches.

Fully serviced and conserved, this is a true collectors’ piece in fine crisp and original condition.