Silver pocket barometer altimeter with finely engraved and silvered 2″ dial signed “L. Casella, Maker to the Admiralty, London” with serial no. “594” and “Compensated.” Having twin scales 0–7,000ft and 23-31 inches of mercury. Fine blued-steel pointer, rotating bezel with fine index marker; bevelled crystal glass.

Contained in English silver case, the reverse finely engine-turned with blank cartouche, hallmarked suspension ring with marks for William Smiley (A B Savory), London and 1861 – it is likely the case predates the movement as this size instrument was only invented in 1861 by Negretti & Zambra.

The aneroid instrument contained within its original fine maroon leather-covered and silk-lined presentation case, having gilded outer border to top, the bottom with affixed paper price tag “22½” guineas.

This Casella pocket barometer represents the pinnacle in terms of quality and manufacture.  It remains in ‘as found’ condition, save for light cleaning to the case. It represents that illusive combination of quality, rarity, completeness and condition. Function excellent.

Louis Pascal Casella is recorded in Banfield, Edwin, Barometer Makers and Retailers, 1660-1900 as working in London from 1858 onwards. The firm was ‘maker to the Admiralty, Board of Trade, Board of Ordnance and the Governments and Observatories of India, Russia, Spain, Portugal, the United States and the Brazils.’ The company both fed on and catered for the scientific advances of the nineteenth century, manufacturing individuals’ patented inventions, and providing the increasingly sophisticated measuring instruments required for further research. It became one of the largest makers of barometers in England and traded as C.F. Casella until 1995 (Charles Frederick Casella was Louis’ son).

Dimensions: 3½” wide x 4″ high

Stock No: PB0229

Price: SOLD