A scarce silver transparent pebble compass by Francis Barker retailed by Manoah Rhodes c1904

1½” diameter silver pocket transparent compass having double-sided peripheral gilt scale open to the centre and enclosed by two finely ground glass magnifying lenses. Delicately set barred needle bearing in the upper and lower lens. Scale marked with 8-wind compass rose, comprising cardinals and intercardinals, to both sides, one side displaying illuminated cardinals and fleur de lys for north in black and red. Mounted in silver case with hallmarks to side for London, sterling silver, 1904, and Francis Barker & Son, suspension post and bow, the latter with hallmark for sterling silver.

All contained within its original high quality, dark blue with gold tooling leather over wood case, champagne silk and velvet linings, with retailer’s mark to inner lid: “Manoah Rhodes & Sons Ltd, Jewellers & Silversmiths, North Parade, Bradford.”

Condition: The silver case in excellent original condition, some very minor marks. The peripheral dials very crisp, the needle suspension particularly smooth and well-balanced, swinging freely and finding north easily. Both lenses in excellent condition with no visible marks, having good magnification and clarity. The leather case near perfect, the silk and velvet linings very crisp.

Comments: Similar compasses known as “The Cyclist” appeared in Barker catalogues as early as 1885, though that name was later dropped for the more descriptive “Pocket Transparent Bar Needle Pebble Compass.” These transparent pebble compasses were not only very attractive, but intensely practical since map-work was made substantially easier when able to see through the compass, particularly with the magnifying effect.

An unusual and extremely desirable antique pocket compass, and very well-executed. A wonderful gift for a special occasion!