Weather Foreteller barometer with 7¼” engraved and silvered dial calibrated from 28-31 inches of mercury, inverted crescent-shaped viewing aperture with below-centre mounted Negretti & Zambra-pattern weather forecaster, struck “Negretti & Zambra,” the “NZ” logo and “Patent 6276/15,” comprising circular silvered and engraved 4″ brass forecasting disk with twin setting posts, circular mask with ‘V’ shaped aperture connected with gearing to brass telltale, japanned steel pointer. Lower reference plate with wind direction points, with engraved serial no. “30694″ below, heavy broad bezel with silvered set screws. Conventional, well-executed 2½” capsule-driven movement mounted within a formed steel chassis, set in a heavy, composed and turned oak case, hanging plate to top, calibration port to rear.

These instruments, made in very small numbers, were intended more for club, institutional or association use, and for sailing and golf clubs in particular. Equipped with a narrow barometric scale of good proportions, readings could be accurate with a rise or fall immediately obvious. The provision of the foreteller and its linkage to the index pointer via a small gearbox contribute greatly to the interest and desirability of this most unusual instrument. The patent was granted to Negretti & Zambra in 1915.

Condition: The dial in original condition shows signs of oxidation and discoloration, likewise the silvered scales to the forecaster; the steel pointer originally blued has been blackened; some losses of japanned finish to bezel. The set screws re-cut, polished and silvered, the oak case retaining virtually all its original lacquer with good colour. The entire instrument stripped, conserved and serviced, and now in very presentable original condition, working well with good sensitivity and transition.

A highly recommended collector’s piece, combining the essential prerequisites of function, interesting aesthetics and great rarity.