Page 1 of 5
Compasses
For Sale
Free Next Working Day shipping on all UK Orders
SC2659 19th century Mariners gimbal compass mounted in mahogany case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a fine example of a mid 19th century mariners compass mounted on gimbals in a mahogany case with a sliding bevelled lid.
Usually these types of compass are quite large, but this particular example, is only 4" (100mm) square and 3¼" (84mm) in height, with the compass bowl being just 65mm in diameter, making it a more compact and relatively uncommon compass.
The compass floating card dial has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with a distinctive Fleur de lis crest denoting North and pivots on a gemstone bearing, set within a lacquered brass compass bowl that has some age tarnishing, but no knocks or dents.
The mahogany case has early dovetail joints and is in good condition, although it has had a small section of the right hand top outer edge replaced in the past.
Dating to circa 1850, this is a robust little compass weighing just 382 grams and is in good working order with a clean dial and glass crystal.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£160
SC2659 Free £20
Unsigned Francis Barker Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass, circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

An early Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into four 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to around 1860, it has its original glass crystal which is retained by a brass bezel, and a stylish blued steel needle, clearly impressed with ‘N’ & ‘S’ gold letters.
As with many wood cased compasses of the period this is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base, was a feature used predominately by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition and a transit lock activated on lid closure.
A classic 19th century antique, it measures 77mm square x 19mm deep, and the lid is fastened with two elegant 7 shaped brass clasps.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£200
SC2653 Free £15
Edwardian hunter cased pocket compass with red cardinal points under crystal

Click Image to View Gallery

A stylish example of an Edwardian hunter cased pocket compass with an English cross bar needle pivoting over a decorative silvered aluminium dial.
Dating to around 1910, its in very good clean condition with a clear undamaged crystal on which the main cardinal points are painted in red on the underside.
The brass case is also retains much of its original black finish and is dent free.
Measuring 52mm in diameter not including the bow and weighing 150 grams, this is a sturdy compass in full working order including the transit lock which is activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£190
SC2652 Free £18
Early 1800's mahogany cased Regency style pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the early 1800's this mahogany cased pocket compass has a distinctive Regency starburst floating dial, divided into four 90 degree quadrants with a fleur de lys for North, it pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clear crystal.
Although unsigned, it's a stylish yet robust compass in very good condition, and in full working order, with a transit lock activated by lid closure.
Measuring 80mm square by 30mm deep and weighing 140 grams, a nice clean example of an early 19th century antique compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£265
SC2638 Free £15
Antique brass cased pocket compass with mother of pearl dial. Circa 1900

Click Image to View Gallery

Although unsigned, this impressive late Victorian hunter cased pocket compass has an attractive mother of pearl black & white dial, similar in design to the Singers patent pattern, and pivoting on a gemstone bearing.
Dating to around 1900, it's housed in a brass case free from any dents with the main cardinal points painted in red on the underside of the crystal.
Measuring 55mm in diameter not including the bow and weighing just under 150 grams, the brass body is also in good original condition with no dents.
A sturdy compass in full working order, there is also a transit lock activated by lid closure to secure the dial when not in use.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£190
SC2646 Free £18
Prismatic inches per yard clinometer in fitted leather case

Click Image to View Gallery

This early 20th century prismatic clinometer consists of a yellow card dial measuring inches per yard, with folding sight vane and designed to be viewed in the vertical plane.
Although unsigned, it's a quality instrument in very good condition with the body retaining almost all of its original black finish, and comes in its fitted leather case which is also in good condition, with all stitching intact.
In full working order, this type of instrument was often used by civil engineers and also artillery regiments in the British army for range calculations and targeting heavy guns.
A well made instrument, it weighs 270 grams including the case and measures 72mm in diameter across the main body.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£145
SC2660 Free £20
Mariners small brass gimbal mounted compass circa 1840

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the first half of the 19th century circa 1840, this is a Mariners brass gimballed pocket compass.
Housed in a brass case with a separate brass lid, it measures 75mm in overall diameter, and stands 45mm high.
In good condition, with a distinctive black and white sunburst dial, the compass card pivots on a gemstone bearing and sits in a 60mm diameter lacquered brass bowl.
Although unsigned this is clearly a quality instrument weighing just over 400 grams, and probably made by one of the more prominent makers of the day.
In working order and in original uncleaned condition, quite a rare antique compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£270
SC2608 Free £20
19th century French pocket compass signed BARABAN, DUPRESSOIR SUCCr, PARIS

Click Image to View Gallery

This French 19th century mahogany cased compass is signed 'BARABAN, DUPRESSOIR SUCCr, 175 RUE St HONORE, PARIS' on the dial.
It has a steel needle which pivots on a gemstone bearing and a folding sight arm which is used in conjunction with the mirror in the lid.
There's also a centimeter rule on the outside edge of the base and a functioning transit lock activated by lid closure.
In very good condition and fully working, it measures 80mm square by 25mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£190
SC2615 Free £18
Antique mahogany cased needle pocket compass with twin sight vanes.

Click Image to View Gallery

This unusual compass with foldable sight vanes is set in a very attractive mahogany case, and fastened by twin brass clasps.
The English cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above the silvered dial with an upper 360 degree chapter ring under a clean, chip free glass crystal.
Dating to the latter part of the 19th century, like many wood cased compasses of the period it is unsigned, but it is a quality piece so likely to have been made by one of the major makers of the time, probably Francis Barker.
In working order with a lid activated transit lock, this compass is in very good condition as can be seen by the photos.
A less common design for wood cased pocket compass, it weighs 160 grams and measures 80mm square by 21mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£180
SC2594 Free £18
Pocket compass given as Newquay Sailing Club Team Race prize 1956

Click Image to View Gallery

Newquay Sailing Club was founded in 1954 and this hunter cased pocket compass appears to have been given as prize for the team race competition in 1956, so quite early in the clubs history.
Engraved "N.S.C. Newquay Cup Team Race 1956"on the underside, the compass itself was probably made by Francis Barker and is the MK VII version which was the last model of the pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1 for British Army Officers.
Set in a nickel plated case with a gemstone pivot floating dial, it's in good dent free condition and fully working.
Measuring 45mm in diameter, this is not only a collectable compass in its own right, but with the added interest for anyone associated with Newquay Sailing Club which is still active today.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
£140
SC2555 Free £12
Mid 20th century Francis Barker bridge compass with clinometer

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the post WW2 period, this unsigned bridge compass with clinometer was made by Francis Barker & Son who produced these on a wholesale basis for others to retail.
Mainly used by surveyors, it also incorporates a pendulous arm for measuring rise and fall on an inches per yard scale and the black compass needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above a decorative dial with a 360 degree scale.
Measuring 75mm in diameter, the compass is in full working order including the transit lock which is activated by a brass knob on the side, and comes in its original brown leather case which is also in very good condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2666    
Victorian brass cased travellers pocket compass circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an elegant Victorian brass cased travellers pocket compass with a classic compass rose design, showing cardinal and inter cardinal points, and a distinctive Fleur de Lis crest denoting North.
Direction is indicated by a stylish blued steel needle engraved N & S in gold lettering for clarity, which pivots on a brass capped bearing under a clean undamaged crystal.
The brass case is in good original condition with its separate push fit brass lid, both for protecting the glass crystal and engaging the built in transit lock.
A fine antique compass dating to the mid 19th century, in full working order and measuring 60mm diameter by 15mm deep including the lid, it weighs 100 grams and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2639    
1860's Singers Patent pocket compass serial no 23606 with MOP dial

Click Image to View Gallery

This distinctive pocket compass has the classic black & white Singers patent design on a mother of pearl dial and carries a serial number 23606, showing it was made sometime between 1861 and before 1868 when Samuel Berry Singer's patent lapsed.
Floating on a gemstone pivot in a nickel case and housed under a bevelled glass crystal, it measures 44mm diameter overall, and 12 mm deep, and has a transit lock activated by a push button on the stem.
In full working order, a traditional antique compass in very good condition, it comes in its original burgundy velvet lined, leather covered outer case.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2657    
J Hicks 19th century prismatic sighting compass in case

Click Image to View Gallery

James Joseph Hicks worked in London from 1861, making and selling a wide variety of instruments, becoming one of the most prolific makers in the country during the 19th century.
This brass cased green card dial prismatic compass reads 'J. HICKS. 8. HATTON GARDEN. LONDON' and is in good cosmetic condition with a clean crystal under which the dial pivots on a gemstone bearing.
The compass retains most of its finish, aside from a small area on the side of the frame, and measures 70mm diameter and comes with a leather case, which is in good condition
Dating to the late Victorian period, it's in good working order including the transit lock activated by the folding sight vane.
The compass and case together weigh just under 250 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2598    
Schmalcalder type prismatic compass by Troughton & Simms with Geological Survey Scotland logo

Click Image to View Gallery

This mid 19th century brass green card prismatic sighting compass is signed 'TROUGHTON & SIMMS, LONDON' and the design is based on the Schmalcalders patent which expired in 1826.
This particular example was previously owned by a member of the the Geological Survey of Scotland which was formed in 1869 and has their logo 'G.S' with a crown symbol engraved on the lid.
A partnership formed by William Simms and Edward Troughton in 1826, their instruments were highly regarded for accuracy and reliability, and were later appointed instrument makers to the Board of Ordnance, London.
In full working order including the transit lock activated by a side lever, and a brass swivel dust cover protecting the prism when not in use, it also has a finger brake to settle the dial quickly.
When closed the sight vane folds flat under the fitted lid, and also doubles as a stand when attached to the base.
In good cosmetic condition, the floating green card dial pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clean crystal, and comes in its original leather case with carry strap, which is also in good condition with unbroken stitching.
A quality antique instrument measuring 70mm in diameter, and with its case weighs just over 400 grams.

This compass comes from part of a small group of scientific instruments purchased together from a collection that belonged to a member of the Geological Survey of Scotland. 
See also items SC2643 And SC2624

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2642    
Unusually small  19th century green card prismatic compass signed BRYSON EDINBURGH

Click Image to View Gallery

This unusually small brass cased green card dial prismatic compass with folding sight vane is signed 'Bryson Edinburgh'.
Made by James Mackay Bryson, son of famous chronometrist Robert Bryson, it was made toward the latter part of the 19th Century, where James' business operated out of Princes Street, Edinburgh between 1850 and 1893.
In good cosmetic condition with a clean crystal window, under which the dial pivots on a gemstone bearing finding North easily, with a clear prism and an intact sight line.
In full working order including the transit lock, despite its small size this is a quality instrument measuring just 42mm diameter and 15mm deep when folded.
It comes fitted in its original pear shaped leather case, lined with blue and purple silk and velvet, which snaps shut securely.
Combined, the compass and case together weigh just under 80 grams, and serves as a very rare miniature version of the much larger green card prismatics of the period.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2634    
Small Victorian brass cased pocket compass circa 1880.

Click Image to View Gallery

A small Victorian compass dating to the mid 19th century, it has the classic compass rose design with a Fleur de Lis crest denoting North, and its original brass push fit lid.
Although unsigned this compass is a piece of some quality and has a shapely blued steel needle engraved 'N' & 'S' in gold letters for clarity.
The paper dial is in excellent condition with no tears or lifting and is protected by a clean crystal.
In full working order and in very good condition this diminutive but elegant antique compass, measures just 17mm diameter and 10mm deep including the lid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2628    
Georgian period travellers mahogany cased pocket compass, R. Finlay

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to circa 1820, this impressive Georgian traveller's compass is set in a hinged mahogany case measuring 90mm square.
Complimented by the small hand made brass hinges and fastened with a pair of 7 shaped brass clasps, the paper compass rose divides into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, and is in very clean condition for a 200 year old compass.
The elegant blued steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' letters and sits under a clean glass crystal.
In good working order, the needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it has the name of a former owner 'R. FINLAY' engraved on one edge of the lid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2611    
1914 Henry Hughes WW1 British Army Verners MK VII pocket compass with case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 Verner's pattern MK VII prismatic marching compass dated 1914 with leather case. Engraved on the underside is 'H. HUGHES & SON Ltd, No 11033, 1914' and stamped with the British Army War department arrow.
In very good condition all round, with a Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, it has a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and there is a manual transit lock.
The brass case is dent free retaining its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, the leather case is also in good condition.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2617    
19th Century Hicks compass & Watkins clinometer combination set

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine example of a prismatic compass and Watkin's clinometer combination, made by James Joseph Hicks in the second half of the 19th century, the clinometer can be detached from its bayonet fixings for independent use.
Housed in a fitted leather case stamped H.C. and impressed with what appears to be a fluer de lis, both compass and clinometer are engraved W. J Johnston, who may be William John Johnston, a professor of mathematics at Aberystwyth University in the 1880's.
Weighing just over 400 grams in the case, both compass and clinometer are in very good condition and fully functional.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2627    
Mid-19th century circular mahogany pocket compass by W & F Newton, Fleet St.

Click Image to View Gallery

This elegant circular mahogany compass dates to the mid 19th century, and the dial reads 'W. & F. NEWTON. 3 FLEET ST LONDON', which refers to cousins William and Frederick Newton, who formed the partnership of W & F Newton in 1851.
William left the business in 1856 which was subsequently renamed Newton & Co, the company lasting into the 1950s before being acquired by the Victor Corporation and later G.E.C.
The blued steel needle pivots on a brass capped bearing over a paper dial which is divided into four 90 degree quadrants with 16 cardinal and inter-cardinal points, housed under a clear glass crystal.
The mahogany lid is fasted with a 7 shaped brass clasp and engages a transit lock when closed.
In good working order, and measuring 55mm in diameter by 18mm in depth, it weighs just over 30 grams and is in excellent condition all round for an instrument over 160 years old.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2636    
Original Brunton compass, International Model, in Brunton branded leather case

Click Image to View Gallery

Originally designed by a Canadian geologist named D W Brunton in the late 19th century, the Brunton compass is still very much the first choice of many geologists for field mapping of geological objects.
This particular example is the 'International Model by The Brunton Company, Riverton, Wyoming' and comes with it's original Brunton branded leather case.
In very good condition and fully working, it measures between 70mm -75mm in width and 28mm in height.
Weighs just under 200 grams without it's case and 270 grams with.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2612    
Victorian brass cased travellers pocket compass, circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an elegant Victorian brass cased travellers compass with a very clean traditional dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points, under a clean crystal.
The stylish blued steel needle has N & S engraved in gold lettering for clarity, and the brass case is in good original condition.
A fine antique compass dating to the mid 19th century, it has the classic compass rose design with a distinctive Fleur de Lis crest denoting North.
In full working order, measuring 55mm diameter by 10mm deep, it weighs just over 70 grams, and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2622    
Mid Victorian pocket compass signed Chadburn & Son Liverpool

Click Image to View Gallery

The Chadburn family has a long history in the manufacture of scientific instruments during the 19th century and this example of a mid Victorian pocket compass is signed 'CHADBURN & SON, LIVERPOOL' being Charles Henry and his son William, who worked in Liverpool between 1857 to 1875.
Set in a hinged mahogany block 65mm square with a shapely blued-steel needle engraved N & S in faded gold lettering, it has a paper dial divided into four 90 degree quadrants.
The needle is held by a transit lock which comes into play when the lid is closed and is fastened with an attractive 7 shaped brass clasp.
Interestingly, on the inside lid is hand scribed "Needle points 17° ? W of N", I think this may indicate the magnetic declination of that time, which according to historical declination charts puts the inscription around 1890.
In good working order, an antique compass with a traditional design.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2539   £12
Victorian compass & clinometer with Geological Survey Scotland logo, in fitted case.

Click Image to View Gallery

Signed 'STANLEY LONDON' this is a rare example of a distinctive pocket compass and clinometer, from the late Victorian period.
Previously owned by a member of the the Geological Survey of Scotland which was formed in 1869, it has their logo 'G.S' with a crown symbol engraved on the reverse.
North is indicated by an English cross bar needle with a gemstone bearing, above a decorative silvered dial divided into four 90 degree quadrants.
It also incorporates a pendulous arm for measuring rise & fall, all housed under a clean glass crystal.
In very good condition, the brass body is free of any dings or dents with some light tarnishing on the underside.
It also comes with its original fitted leather case which is in very good condition and snaps shut firmly.
In good working order, including a push button transit lock, it weighs just over 100 grams in its case, which measures 65mm x 60mm x 25mm.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2624    
WW1 Dennison MK VI British Army Officers pocket compass dated 1917

Click Image to View Gallery

An iconic WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved 'Dennison Birmingham VI 56704 1917' with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
Housed in a full hunter nickel case, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In excellent cosmetic condition and fully working, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.
A fine example from the most prolific maker of this style of compass

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2614    
Rare prismatic compass with Singers Patent green card dial

Click Image to View Gallery

Pocket compasses with the distinctive Singer's Patent dial are not that uncommon, but very rarely hand drawn on a green card dial.
This type of compass was a development of Schmalcalder's Patent compass of 1812 which introduced the idea of using an optical prism, combined with a sighting vane, to improve accuracy when taking bearings.
The British Army used this type of compass from the last quarter of the 19th century, and this particular example comes with its leather case bearing the name of a later owner and the letters 9th K.S.L.I, referring to the 9th battalion Kings Shropshire Light Infantry.
In good working order, the brass case with a push fit lid is in very good condition with no dents or damage and measures 50mm in diameter, which is smaller than usual for these prismatic compasses.
Dating to the late 19th century, the compass itself has no makers marks, but it is identical to similar ones produced by Francis Barker & Son, so very likely made by them.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2606    
1916 Cruchon & Emons WW1 British Army Verners MK VII pocket compass with case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 Verner's pattern MK VII prismatic marching compass dated 1916 with leather case. Engraved on the underside is CRUCHON & EMONS, LONDON, No 50003, 1916' and stamped with the British Army War department arrow.
In very good condition all round, with a Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, it has a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and there is a manual transit lock.
The brass case is dent free retaining its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, the leather case is also in good condition.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2618    
Francis Barker pocket compass with RGS pattern dial and leather strap

Click Image to View Gallery

This compass has the Royal Geographical Society pattern dial which was designed by Francis Barker, and dates from the latter part of the 19th century.
Although there are no maker's marks, this compass design appeared in many Barker catalogues, from the late 19th century until the 1920s.
In very good condition, it retains all of its original black finish and is in full working order, including the transit lock. Measuring 46mm in diameter, it also comes with a leather strap from around the same period.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2616    
19th century explorers pocket compass by Spencer Browning & Co c1850

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the mid 19th century, this English brass cased explorers style compass is marked to the centre of the distinctive floating dial “Spencer & Co, 111 Minories, London.”
Made by Spencer Browning & Co who were a continuation of the firm Spencer Browning & Rust on the death of Ebeneezer Rust, they were recorded as working at the Minories address from 1840 to 1873.
In good original condition, the case is free of any dents and the card dial has only minor scuffing around the makers name.
Housed in a dent free brass case with its original push fit lid, it's in full working order and measures 65mm diameter by 25mm deep.
An impressive and relatively rare antique compass by a renowned maker of the 19th century, this is one for the collector.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2605    
Early Georgian hand drawn coloured dial mahogany pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A rare mahogany cased pocket compass with a very decorative hand drawn coloured dial.
It measures 65mm x 62mm x 22mm deep and in remarkably good condition for a piece which is well over 200 years old.
In good working order, the retaining ring has a small piece of brass inserted so may be a later replacement.
Interestingly, the lid has a previous owners name along with some other illegible text written inside.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2572    
Late 19th century Francis Barker mahogany desk top compass.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an unusual circular desk top compass measuring 6 ½" (165mm) in diameter, and identical to those made by Francis Barker & Son, although in this instance does not carry the Trade Mark London logo,which suggests it was made on a wholesale basis for onward retail.
The attractive paper dial is in clean condition and is set under a jewelled steel needle measuring 4½" (115mm) in length, the glass crystal is also in good condition.
Weighing 260 grams and dating to around 1890, this mahogany cased compass was probably intended for use as an interesting desk ornament, a purpose it would still fulfill today.
In full working order, it finds North well and takes a little time to settle, a quite splendid Victorian compass with rare novelty value.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2592    
Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass circa 1820

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a very elegant early 19th century pocket compass circa 1820, set in a hinged mahogany block.
It has a shapely blued steel needle pivoting over a clean starburst paper dial divided into four quadrants of 90 degrees, and also showing all the points of the compass.
The lid has small hand made triangular hinges, and is fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.
Measuring just over 50mm square and weighing just over 30 grams, this is a classic Georgian compass, in good working order including the transit lock, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2569    
Victorian brass cased explorers style pocket  compass by Francis Barker & Son

Click Image to View Gallery

This visually impressive brass cased explorer’s style pocket compass with a separate push fit lid was made by Francis Barker & Son around 1880, as evidenced by the small FBS logo within the Trademark London triangle and printed on the card dial just below the North cardinal point.
Measuring 70mm diameter and 20mm deep, the inverted S in the logo indicates the compass was made after Francis Barkers death in 1875.
The English cross bar directional needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above a traditional sunburst dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
A quality antique compass by the most renowned of all compass makers, and in full working order, including a lid activated transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2566    
J M Glauser WW2 era MK II plane table or trough compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass trough compass was made by J M Glauser for use by the British Military during the WW2 era, and is engraved 'J.M.G & SONS Ltd' with a military crowfoot arrow on the side. Not used as a traditional compass and known also as a plane table compass, it was used by surveyors to establish the direction of magnetic North when aligning a plane table or theodolite.
The needle of the compass consists of a long narrow magnetised bar of steel, pointed at both ends, with a gemstone bearing at its centre for reduced friction.
In good condition, it's housed in mahogany case with a sliding lid that activates a transit lock for when the instrument is not in use.
Measuring 165mm x 38mm x 25mm, it weighs just under 300 grams and is in good working order, although the glass is a later replacement.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2574    
E. R. Watts 1910 Verner's Pattern MK VI military marching compass.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a rare example of a WW1 era Verner's Pattern MK VI prismatic marching compass which was superseded by the more common MK VII shortly after the start of WW1.
It's dated 1910 and signed 'E.R. WATTS & SON, LONDON. 1910, No 163' on the underside and 'VERNER'S PATTERN VI' on the lid.
The MK VI is much less common and unusual to find in such good condition, particularly with its centre paper label completely intact, as well as retaining its original lubber line on the glass.
In good working order, it comes with a WW1 Webley lanyard and has the mother of pearl dial for low light readings.
Not only a sought after compass for a collector, it's still practical today for hill walking and similar pursuits, and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2590    
Negretti & Zambra Brunton mining compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Originally designed by a Canadian geologist named D W Brunton in the late 19th century, the Brunton compass is still very much the first choice of many geologists for field mapping of geological objects.
This early 20th Century model was made by Negretti & Zambra, London and was retailed to appeal to surveyors mainly for use in mining operations.
In excellent condition and fully working, it retains practically all of its black coating, with a clean dial and an intact sight line on the mirror.
Measuring between 70mm by 80mm in width and 28mm high, it weighs just under 300 grams.
Brunton compasses are still made today, but this is a relatively rare example by one of the most renowned makers of the time.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2580    
WW1 Short & Mason MK V Military Officers compass dated 1914

Click Image to View Gallery

The majority of MK V pocket compasses were made during the WW1 period up to 1917 when they were superseded by the MK VI version.
This 1914 example by Short & Mason is engraved on the lid 'Short & Mason Ltd, London, 1914, V, 11774', it also has the military arrow, showing that it was issued into service.
It has a bevelled glass crystal covering the distinctive Singers patent style black & white floating dial, which is mounted on a jewelled brass bearing for reduced friction on the pivot point.
Housed in a full hunter nickel case, it's in full working order, with a strong hinge and measures 45mm in diameter, not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2589    
Chas Owen compass owned by Brigadier General Wallscourt Hely Hutchinson Waters.

Click Image to View Gallery

Made toward the latter part of the 19th century, this brass cased green card dial prismatic compass with folding sight vane is inscribed "Chas Owen Optician 46 & 48 City Rd EC" and "W. H. H. Waters" on the reverse.
Belonging to noted author, soldier and diplomat Brigadier General Wallscourt Hely Hutchinson Waters, R.A. C.V.O (Royal Artillery Commander of Victorian Order) born in 1855, he became Captain of 13th Battery Royal Field Artillery based out of Suffolk in 1891, and was later appointed as military attaché in 1893 at the British Embassy in Russia for the next five years.
After duty in South Africa, he was sent in 1904 as the War Office representative with the Russian army in Manchuria traveling extensively across Russia. His final visit before the October Revolution came in October 1916, when he had an audience with Tsar Nikolai II Alexandrovich Romanov at his headquarters in Mogilev.
He was also a personal friend and admirer of the final German Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm II, having become acquainted in the early 1900s after he wrote favourabley of Wilhelm in his memoirs. (A Collection of books inscribed to Brigadier Wallscourt Hely-Hutchinson Waters, by Kaiser Wilhelm II were sold at auction in 2018) see photo of one example.
Waters would go on to release notable publications including 'The War in South Africa', 'Secret and confidential : the experiences of a military attaché', and 'Russia Then & Now'.
The compass itself is in good cosmetic condition with a clean crystal under which the dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and a transit lock. Measuring 70mm diameter, it comes with its original leather case which has had a small repair on the locking strap but is also in good condition with sound stitching.
The leather case is impressed with initials "W.H.H.W." and written in ink "W.J."
In good working order, the compass and case together weigh just under 300 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2581    
Early 20th century Francis Barker combined compass / clinometer

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an early 20th century example of a Handle compass clinometer, also known as a bridge compass, made by Francis Barker.
In very good condition  the brass body retaining much of its original lacquer finish, it  also comes with its original leather case.
In good working order, the cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above a paper dial which has the F Barker and Son logo within the trademark London triangle, just under the North cardinal point.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2573    
WW1 era Dennison cased MK VI pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Although dating to the WW1 period, this Dennison MK VI pocket compass was never issued to the military and made on a wholesale basis for other makers to rebrand on the lid, hence the lack of any markings on the lid.
However, it is the same Dennison compass that would have been issued to the military, having the matching serial numbers on the lid and base, and stamped 'DENNISON WATCH CASE CO LTD' inside the base cover.
Measuring 45mm in diameter, it's in good working order and in clean condition as can be seen from the attached photos, with no dents or chipping on the glass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2560    
Victorian brass cased travellers compass circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an elegant Victorian brass cased travellers compass with a very clean traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points, under a clean crystal.
The stylish blued steel needle has N & S engraved in gold lettering for clarity, and the brass case is in good condition with no dents.
A fine antique compass dating to the mid 19th century, it has the classic compass rose design with a distinctive Fleur de Lis crest denoting North and its original brass push fit lid activates a transit lock when in place.
In full working order, measuring 45mm diameter by 12mm deep, it weighs just over 50 grams, and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2582    
Henry Hughes & Son early Edwardian mahogany desk top compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an impressive example of a desktop mahogany compass, signed "H. Hughes & Son Ltd London. E.C." on the dial.
Founded in 1828, Henry Hughes was a prolific and highly respected instrument maker, later joined by his son Alexander Hughes in the late 19th century until the firm was incorporated as Henry Hughes and Son Ltd in 1903.
The black and white sunburst compass dial is in good, clean condition, has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with a full 360 degree scale, the black and steel needle pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clean glass crystal.
Measuring 8"by 8" by 1½" (206mm x 206mm x 39mm), it is a substantial compass, in very good condition, with only some light scratches on the the lid which fastens shut with two brass clasps.
In full working order finding North easily and weighing just under 900 grams, this is a quality antique compass from a prestigious maker.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2517    
Late 19th century hunter cased pocket compass signed ROSS LONDON

Click Image to View Gallery

A late 19th century hunter cased pocket compass stamped ROSS LONDON on the lid, and measuring 45mm in diameter
In very good condition, direction is indicated by an English cross bar needle with a gemstone pivot bearing above a decorative silvered dial, all housed under a clean glass crystal.
A sturdy compass in full working order, the brass case is free of any dents and activates a transit lock when the lid is closed.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2565    
19th century French Equinoctial compass sundial in mahogany case

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the second half of the 19th century, this French equinoctial compass sundial is housed in a polished mahogany case measuring 95mm square.
The blued steel needle pivots on a gemstone bearing over a polished aluminium dial with a 360 degree stepped chapter ring, under a clean crystal held in place by a brass retaining plate.
Above the glass sits the folding latitude arc with divisions from zero to 70 degrees and a sundial gnomen for noting the hours.
Weighing just under 220 grams and in good working order, the case lid is fastened with two shapely brass clasps which also activates the needle transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2533    
Mid 19th century surveyors compass signed J Gargory Fecit.

Click Image to View Gallery

This large surveying compass was made around the middle of the 19th century by James Gargory, an optician and instrument maker who operated out of Birmingham and Wolverhampton between 1830 to 1875, and died in 1881.
The attractive silvered dial is signed "J. Gargory Fecit. 41 Bull St, Birm'n"and has a stepped outer chapter ring with a 0-360 degrees scale in one degree increments.
He is recorded as working at the 41 Bull St address between 1850 to 1856.
A substantial compass weighing just under 800 grams and measuring 5 ½ (135mm) square, it's visually very impressive, despite the fact that it's had noticeable repair work on the lid and hinge (see photos).
In good working order including the transit lock, the lid is designed to lift off and it also comes with a removable tripod adapter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2453    
Mid 19th century pocket compass signed Dancer Manchester

Click Image to View Gallery

This early Victorian brass cased pocket compass is inscribed "DANCER MANCHESTER" on the dial.
Made by the celebrated Manchester optician John Benjamin Dancer, son of Josiah Dancer whose business he inherited in 1835, Dancer was a scientific instrument maker who lived from 1812 to 1887 and was renowned for his many contributions to the field of optics, barometers and microscopy.
Elected as a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society in 1855, he was later appointed Optician to HRH the Prince of Wales.
In good condition, the English cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction, above an aluminium dial divided into four 90 degree quadrants, protected by a clean glass crystal.
Measuring 50mm in diameter, the compass is in working order including the transit lock, activated by lid closure.
Pocket compasses by Dancer are relatively rare given his main interests were in other fields, and examples like this do not come along too often.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2558    
Mid 19th century gimbal mounted Mariners compass in mahogany case

Click Image to View Gallery

An impressive gimbal mounted mariners compass dating to the mid 19th century.
The floating dial pivots on a gemstone bearing, with the outer scale marked in four 90 degree quadrants, and a fleur de lis denoting North.
In generally good condition all round, there is some minor damage on the very outer edge of the card dial at the South position (see photo).
The compass is mounted in a dovetail jointed mahogany box with a later mahogany lid, dimensions are 5¾" square by 4" high, and the lacquered brass bowl diameter is just under 3¾".
In good working order, this fine decorative antique weighs just under 950 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2516    
Victorian brass cased pocket compass by Henry Hughes & Son London

Click Image to View Gallery

This elegant brass cased pocket compass dates to the second half of the 19th century and is signed 'H.Hughes & Son, 59 Fenchurch St, London' around the centre of the dial.
Made by Henry Hughes & Son around 1870, the stylish blued steel directional needle is engraved N & S in gold lettering & pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, under a clean crystal with only very minor edge chips.
Although the lacquered brass case does have some minor lacquer loss on the underside, it is free of any dents or deformities.
A fine antique compass, it has the classic compass rose design with a distinctive Fleur de Lis crest denoting North, and its original brass push fit lid.
In good working order, this antique compass is in very good condition and measures 38mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2527    
Pre WW2 Hunter cased MK VII pocket compass circa 1930's

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine example of a full hunter cased pocket watch style compass, with a gemstone pivot floating dial, and set in a nickel plated case.
Although not signed by any maker, it was probably made by Francis Barker in the pre WW2 period, and is the MK VII version which was the last model of the pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1 for British Army Officers.
In good condition, the dent free case retains all its nickel plating and has a clean undamaged crystal.
All in good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2545    
Francis Barker & Son Angle of Sight compass clinometer with case

Click Image to View Gallery

Made by Francis Barker in the pre WW2 period this particular Angle of Sight instrument has a dual purpose function in that it incorporates a prismatic compass consisting of a green card dial with a 360 degree scale, and a Centimetres per Metre clinometer visible in the vertical plane.
These two functions are controlled by the brass button on the side which locks the compass when using the clinometer, and vice versa.
In good condition, the body is engraved 'PATENT NO 1926. MADE BY F. BARKER & SON LONDON FOR CASTANON MONGEY. CIA MADRID. 4751'.
This type of instrument was often used by civil engineers and also artillery regiments in the British army for range and trajectory calculations to target heavy guns.
In good condition including its leather case, the only blemish being some scuffing around the edges of the green card dial.
A precision instrument in good working order, it weighs 430 grams in its case and measures 70mm in diameter across the main body.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2540    
Francis Barker & Son 19th Century brass case pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This small brass cased pocket compass with a separate push fit lid dates to the last quarter of the 19th century and was made by Francis Barker & Son as evidenced by the small FBS logo within the Trademark London triangle (the reversed 'S' indicating it was made after the death of Francis Barker in 1875).
In good condition all round, the distinctive black & white Singers Patent style aluminium dial has a star denoting North, housed under a clean glass crystal
In working order and measuring 40mm in diameter, the polished brass case is free of any dents as is the original domed lid and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2546    
Early Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass, circa 1850

Click Image to View Gallery

This early Victorian pocket compass dates to circa 1850, and is set in a hinged mahogany block 2½" (65mm) square, with two chamfered edges on the lid.
The shapely blued steel needle sits above a clean paper compass rose divided into four 90 degree quadrants, and also showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North.
The needle locks in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed, and is fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.
A genuine antique compass with an attractive compass rose design, in very good cosmetic condition and good working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2520    
Early Victorian brass cased pocket compass with floating dial.

Click Image to View Gallery

Although unsigned, the design and style of this pocket compass is very similar to one made by a relatively unknown maker W. H Moralee who was working in North Shields during the first half of the 19th century.
A genuine antique compass, it has a distinctive black & white floating card dial which pivots on a gemstone under a clean glass crystal.
Housed in a dent free polished brass case, with original push fit lid, there is a small chip in the glass edge where a transit lock would have been but is no longer present. Nevertheless this does not affect the function of the compass which is in good working order and measures 55mm diameter by 15mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2532    
Iconic WW1 Dennison Officers compass in original branded box

Click Image to View Gallery

Dennison compasses from the World War I period have always been highly sought after by collectors, but this example is particularly special as it comes with its original Dennison branded box.
Engraved 'Dennison Birmingham VI 58319 1917' it also has the military arrow /|\ on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
Housed in a full hunter dent free nickel case, the beveled glass crystal covers a jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In excellent cosmetic condition and fully working, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.
These iconic compasses in their original box very rarely come up for sale, so this would be a great addition to any collection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2530    
19th century Hunter cased pocket compass with red lettering signed J H Steward

Click Image to View Gallery

Made by J H Steward toward the latter part of the 19th Century, this distinctive hunter cased pocket compass has a classic black & white design on a mother of pearl jewelled pivot dial and is signed 'J. H. Steward, London'.
It's in very good clean condition with a clear undamaged crystal, on which the main cardinal points are painted in red on the underside.
The brass body measures 54mm in diameter not including the bow, and is also in good condition with no dents.
This is a sturdy compass in full working order, and there is also a transit lock activated by lid closure to secure the dial when not in use.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2528    
Lawrence & Mayo brass cased marching compass circa 1910

Click Image to View Gallery

Similar in design to the Verner's MK III pattern, this early 20th century brass cased half-hunter compass was made by Lawrence and Mayo and interestingly appears to be titled "The Groper" which reassuringly relates to the lesser known dictionary definition 'To make one's way'.
L & M trace their roots to two London based Jewish families, who set up operations all over the world, initially in London and then the Indian subcontinent.
Not much information is available on the early history of the company in London, but its reputation as makers of high quality scientific instruments was well known. Records show that L & M opened its first Indian office in Calcutta in the year 1877 and rapidly became India's leading opticians with a prestigious client list that included Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Neru.
This non-prismatic model has a white compass card surrounded by a silvered bearing ring as well as a manual transit lock and finger brake on one side.
In full working order, it measures 50mm in diameter and is in good dent free condition with a clean undamaged beveled crystal, although the rubber anti slip ring on the underside is a later replacement.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2521    
Late 19th century Negretti & Zambra Surveyors compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Made from bronzed brass, this late 19th century Surveyors compass is signed "Negretti & Zambra London" on the dial.
In full working order, the cross bar needle incorporating a jewelled pivot, is set over a silvered aluminium two tier dial with a 360 degree outer scale, and 90 degree quadrants on the inner scale.
The two sight vanes at either side also activate a transit lock when folded and the face glass remains protected under a matching press fit lid when not in use.
Located on the underside is a threaded boss for the accompanying tripod attachment, which would have been used by surveyors when mapping topography.
An impressive instrument in good working order, it has a dial diameter of 75mm and weighs just under 500 grams with it's tripod attachment.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2522    
E. R. Watts 1912 Verner's Pattern MK VI marching compass with case

Click Image to View Gallery

This WW1 era Verner's Pattern MK VI prismatic marching compass was the forerunner of the more common MK VII and MK VIII models used during WW1.
It's dated 1912 and signed 'E.R. WATTS & SON, LONDON. 1912, No 3646 \|//|\' on the underside and stamped 'VERNER'S PATTERN VI' on the lid.
The double broad arrow also shows it was later officially decommissioned for sale into the civilian market.
The MK VI is less common and unusual to find in relatively good condition, particularly with its centre paper label completely intact, although the anti slip ring appears to be a later replacement. It is accompanied by a leather case which is in good condition with all stitching intact and has the letters "E.V.B" impressed on one side, and on the other side is written "J R Richardson R.M" in faint pen, which would have been a previous owner, possibly in the Royal Marines.
In good working order, it has the mother of pearl dial for low light reading and is not only a sought after compass for a collector, but still practical today for hill walking and similar pursuits.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2523    
Victorian brass cased pocket compass with lid, circa 1870

Click Image to View Gallery

This elegant brass cased pocket compass with a separate push fit lid dates to the second half of the 19th century.
An unsigned example, it has an English cross bar needle pivoting on a gemstone bearing over a paper dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points.
In working order and measuring 40mm in diameter, the brass case is free of any dents, as is the matching original lid, in addition the separate push button transit lock is also fully functional.
Supplied with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2524    
WW1 Dennison MK VI British Army Officers pocket compass dated 1917

Click Image to View Gallery

An iconic WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved Dennison Birmingham VI 51892 1917 with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
Housed in a full hunter dent free nickel case, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In excellent cosmetic condition and fully working, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.
A fine example from the most prolific maker of this style of compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2508    
Georgian period travellers mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to circa 1820, this impressive Georgian travellers pocket compass is set in a hinged mahogany case measuring 3" (78mm) square.
Complimented by the small hand made brass hinges and fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, and is in very good condition for a 200 year old compass.
The elegant blued steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' gold letters for clarity, and sits under a glass crystal which is free of any damage.
In good working order, the needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed.
The mahogany case is free of any splits or cracks, although there is a small pencil mark on the interior lid (see photo).
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2510    
Early 19th Century Georgian Brass cased compass with lid

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the early part of the 19th Century, this Georgian brass cased explorers pocket compass has a distinctive floating card dial of an early design.
Although unsigned, the black and white dial is in very good condition and is divided into four 90 degree quadrants with a Fleur De Lis denoting North and pivots on a brass bearing housed under a clean glass crystal, which is free of any chips or cracks.
The dent free brass case is also in good condition, still having much of its original lacquer, coupled with a warm aged patina and protected by a separate push on lid.
In good working order the compass measures 70mm diameter, 20mm deep and weighs just under 220 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2487    
J H Steward late Victorian explorers brass cased needle pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This distinctive late Victorian brass cased pocket compass dating to around 1890, was made by the renowned firm of J H Steward and is signed 'J.H.STEWARD, 406 & 457 STRAND, LONDON'.
The silvered aluminium compass dial has 8 cardinal points and an outer scale divided into four quadrants, calibrated in one degree increments.
Direction is indicated by an English cross bar needle which pivots on a jewelled bearing under a clean undamaged crystal, and the dent free brass case is in good original condition with its brass lid, both for protecting the glass crystal and engaging the built in transit lock.
In full working order, the dimensions are 70mm diameter and 17mm deep, a quite rare yet robust compass by a very collectable maker.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2512    
WW1 era pocket compass with Singers patent style dial

Click Image to View Gallery

This pocket compass dates to the WW1 era and has a distinctive black & white Singers patent style dial housed in a full hunter case, which is nickel plated on the inside and polished brass on the outside.
Similar in operation to the Dennison type pocket compasses of the same period, the aluminium dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and is set under a clean bevelled crystal.
In good working order and dent free, this is an impressive compass measuring 45mm diameter, not including the bow.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2492    
Mid 19th century prismatic sighting compass in case by Elliott Brothers, London

Click Image to View Gallery

This mid 19th century brass prismatic sighting compass made by Elliott Brothers is signed 'ELLIOTT BROS, CHARING CROSS, LONDON' on the dial around the pivot.
The founder William Elliott formed a partnership with his sons Frederick and Charles in 1850 and the firm became known as Elliott & Sons, the name later changing to Elliott Bros from 1854 after William retired in 1853. The Charing Cross address dates this compass to 1856-1858 as they only operated from this address for that period.
In full working order including the transit lock activated by the folding sight vane, the cosmetic condition is good, with a clean crystal under which the floating green card dial pivots on a gemstone bearing.
The fitted lid and underside is inscribed with an issue number of '365' and doubles as a stand when attached to the base.
A quality antique instrument measuring 75mm in diameter it comes in a leather case which is also in good condition with some repairs to the straps. The case has the number 254 imprinted along with some lettering, possibly of a previous owner but difficult to read.
The compass and case together weigh just under 300 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2470    
Cooke Troughton & Simms Angle of Sight compass clinometer with case.

Click Image to View Gallery

This Angle of Sight instrument is dual purpose in that it incorporates a prismatic compass, consisting of a silvered ring dial with a 360 degree scale, and an inches per yard clinometer visible in the vertical plane. These two functions are controlled by the brass button on the side which locks the compass when using the clinometer, and vice versa.
(A similar model appears in a 1919 Francis Barker catalogue, where its referred to as a ‘combined altitude instrument and prismatic compass’)
Retaining virtually all of its original black finish, it’s engraved 'Cooke Troughton & Simms Ltd, YORK. ENGLAND'.
In full working order, this type of instrument was often used by civil engineers and also artillery regiments in the British army for range calculations and targeting heavy guns.
In very good condition including its leather case, this is a substantial instrument, which weighs 500 grams including the case, and measures 70mm in diameter across the main body.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2451    
Large 19th century  mahogany cased surveyors compass, circa 1820

Click Image to View Gallery

This impressive English surveyors compass was made sometime around the beginning of the 19th century and has a stepped outer chapter ring with the scale engraved 0-360 degrees in one degree increments.
The shapely blued steel needle pivots above the silvered dial under a clean, chip free glass crystal, and also has a lid activated transit lock.
A substantial quality compass example it measures 135mm x 130mm x 31mm, with a dial diameter of 110mm, and weighs just over 500 grams.
In good working order, the cosmetic condition of the compass is very good with a clean dial and although unsigned, the quality would indicate it was likely made by one of the more prominent instrument makers of the time, possibly Dollond.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2442    
Early 19th century Surveyors compass signed Bate London.

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the first quarter of the 19th century, this surveyors compass is signed 'Bate London'.
Robert Brettell Bate started out in 1804, inheriting his uncles business and quickly rose to prominence as a provider of hydrometers following the death of Bartholomew Sikes, before expanding into optics and other scientific and mathematical instruments.
In 1833 he served as Master of the Spectacle Makers’ Guild and as well as writing and publishing a number of instructional handbooks, he was also Optician in Ordinary to King George IV and Queen Victoria and operated out of 21 Poultry Lane until his death in 1847.
This impressive brass surveying compass has two foldable sight vanes set above a silvered dial with 8 cardinal and intercardinal points surrounded by a full 360 degree stepped scale, and a steel needle that pivots on a brass bearing.
The entire dial can be fully rotated by turning of a brass knob on the underside, which would have been used for surveyors to maintain their sightline to geographical landmarks, whilst also recording their relative position to North without physically rotating the compass.
The underside has a threaded boss for attaching to a tripod as well as a sliding transit lock to hold the needle in place when not in use. (please note there are later replacement fixings attaching the boss to the underside).
Although the lid has a minor dent (see photos) it fits the compass frame securely, protecting the glass when not in use.
In full working order, this is a substantial item weighing 1430 grams, measuring 125mm in diameter and 210mm in length.
A quite unique compass by an important instrument maker also celebrated for his nautical instruments.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2454    
Dennison Cased Officers WW1 souvenir compass by L Kamm dated 1914-1919

Click Image to View Gallery

An unusual example of a WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass made as a commemorative piece, engraved 'MNF BY L. KAMM WAR SOUVENIR 1914 - 1919 LONDON' although the markings are quite worn but still readable.
Housed in a Dennison nickel case which is in very good condition, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive floating dial with a gemstone bearing for reduced friction.
In good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2499    

Late 19th century School Board For London desk top compass.

Click Image to View Gallery

This large Victorian mahogany cased desk top compass measures 6¼" (160mm) dial diameter, the case being 7¼" (185mm) square by (28mm) depth, and made during the last quarter of the 19th century in London, for use as an educational aid in schools.
The Elementary Education Act of 1870 created elected school boards to build & run schools, and this compass was made for the London School Board by the maker W.W. Hooper, the attractive paper dial reads 'SCHOOL BOARD FOR LONDON. W.W. HOOPER, BOW, E.'
The School boards were abolished in 1902 and replaced by local education authorities.
Not only a very impressive compass, but also quite a rare item which is part of social history.
In good condition, there is a repair to a couple of age cracks in the mahogany base which have been wax filled, (see photo).
North is a fleur-de-lis and there are 32 Cardinal & inter cardinal points plus an outer scale with four 90 degree quadrants.
Weighing just under 500 grams, it's in good working order including the transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2439    
Sestrel gimbal mounted ships compass by Henry Browne & Son

Click Image to View Gallery

This early 20th century gimbal mounted ships compass carries the famous 'Sestrel' logo, the trademark of Henry Browne & Son, the important and highly respected maker of quality nautical instruments, used on naval & merchant ships since the mid 19th century.
The dry card floating dial pivots on a gemstone bearing, has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with the outer edge having a 360 degree scale, and North is denoted by the distinctive triangular Sestrel logo.
In excellent condition all round, the card dial is clean and the glass cover is free from any chips or cracks.
The compass is mounted in a hardwood box with separate sliding lid, dimensions are 5 ½" (140mm) square by 4" (100mm) deep, and the compass bowl diameter is 3¼ "(80mm).
An impressive compass in good working order and would look great in most surroundings, it weighs just over 1kg.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2392    
Victorian brass cased travellers compass circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an elegant Victorian brass cased traveller's pocket compass dating to circa 1860.
Although unsigned this compass is clearly a quality piece with a floating card dial which is surprisingly clean for an item well over 150 years old.
The distinctive black and white dial has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with a fluer de lis indicating north, under a clean crystal.
Housed in dent free brass case with original domed lid, it's in full working order and measures 50mm diameter by 15mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2493    
Mariners small brass gimbal mounted compass circa 1840

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the first half of the 19th century circa 1840, this is a Mariners brass gimballed compass.
Housed in a brass case with a separate brass lid, it measures 77mm in overall diameter, and stands 40mm high.
In good condition, the traditional compass card pivots on a brass bearing, and sits in a 62mm diameter brass bowl.
Although unsigned this is clearly a quality instrument weighing just over 310 grams, and probably made by one of the more prominent makers of the day.
In working order, the brass has been highly polished and the lead balancing weight on the bowl underside is a little untidy, but doesn't detract from what is quite a rare antique compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2494    
Francis Barker WW2 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass in Dennison case

Click Image to View Gallery

This WW2 full hunter cased British Army Officers pocket compass is engraved 'MK VI 1940, F Barker & Son (1932) Ltd, London, B5689' on the lid and also has the War department military arrow, which shows it was issued into service.
Made by Francis Barker and set in a Dennison hunter case, stamped 'DENNISON WATCH CASE CO LTD' inside the base cover, its in very good condition, with a bevelled glass crystal covering the jewelled floating dial.
Measuring 45mm in diameter and in full working order, with a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2491    
1950's MK 3 military prismatic compass by Henry Browne & Son.

Click Image to View Gallery

A rare example of a MK 3 military prismatic compass, made by Henry Browne and Son, probably a few years after WW2.
It has a liquid damped bowl, free of any bubbles with a mother of pearl dial calibrated in 360 degrees, and is in full working order finding and settling on north quickly.
The compass body is of blackened brass, with only some minor paint loss here and there with the rubber anti slip ring on the base also in good condition.
Engraved on the base is 'H.B. & S. Ltd BARKING /|\ MK 3 REF. No. 6E/395 No 226/52', it also has the War department broad arrow, indicating this compass was issued into military service.
It comes with a sturdy leather carry case which is in good original condition and unbroken stitching.
Weighing just under 350 grams in it's case, a collectable military compass from a well respected maker, and still very practical for use today.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2472    
WW2 era MK IX prismatic marching compass with cadet handbook

Click Image to View Gallery

This WW2 era MK IX prismatic marching compass is very similar to the original Verner's style compasses of WW1, with only subtle differences.
It has a clean aluminium dial with a gemstone bearing, and is in very good condition, retaining virtually all its original black finish.
Complete with its leather case embossed 'England', it also has a sturdy carry strap and all stitching is intact.
In excellent condition, and in full working order, it's accompanied by the 72 page handbook 'MAP WORK FOR CADETS AND OTHERS By Edward V. Lane' first published in 1943, which aside from a worn spine (see photo) is in otherwise good condition.
Although unsigned, Francis Barker had the patent rights for many military compasses including this model, and its likely this is a Barker compass or made under licence.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2488    
19th century gimbal mounted deck compass with Singer's patent dial

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a rare example of a late 19th century deck compass with a Singer's Patent mother of pearl dial, mounted on gimbals in a mahogany case with a hinged lid.
Usually these styles of compasses are quite large, but this particular example, is only 97mm square and 70mm in height, with the compass bowl being just 58mm in diameter, making it a very compact version and therefore much less common.
The floating dial is of the distinctive singer's patent style black and white pattern and is printed with the words 'SINGER'S PATENT'.
It pivots on a gemstone bearing, and is set within a lacquered brass bowl which is free of any knocks or dents and retains most of its original finish.
The cosmetic condition is very good, although the wooden box lid has been reconstructed to a large extent, but is perfectly sound and snaps shut.
A robust little compass weighing under 340 grams it's in full working order with a clean dial and glass crystal.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2462    
Victorian mahogany pocket compass - Circa 1850

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of an early Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 57mm square by 24mm deep, with an attractive paper dial, it dates to the middle part of the 19th century.
The lid is attached by small hand made square hinges, fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp and the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants, showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North.
The steel directional needle is impressed with a gold dot for North, and sits under the clean glass crystal which is free of any damage.
On the underside is written faintley "W Lee. London Road Reading, Berks", there looks to be additional, illegible text written (see photo).
My limited research suggests the compass may have belonged to William Lee who was proprietor of The Marquis of Granby tavern from 1856 to 1875. The Marquis of Granby itself dates to the late 1700's and operated consistently for almost 150 years before being converted into a cinema in the early 20th century.
A genuine antique compass, it's in full working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure, this is a small part of Readings social history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2475    
J Hicks Victorian hunter cased pocket compass with black & white dial

Click Image to View Gallery

James Joseph Hicks worked in Hatton Garden, London from 1861, making and selling a wide variety of instruments, becoming one of the most prolific instrument makers in the country during the 19th century.
This impressive late Victorian hunter cased pocket compass is very faintly signed 'J HICKS LONDON' on the attractive aluminium black and white dial which pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clear beveled glass, which also has the main cardinal points printed in red.
Housed in a brass case free from any dents, it is slightly tarnished on the underside and has a previous owners lightly scribed initials 'DMD' (see photo).
In full working order including the transit lock which is activated when the lid is closed, this is a nice example of a more unusual pocket compass by a prestigious instrument maker.
Measuring 50mm diameter by 15mm deep and weighing just under 140 grams, it comes in a later velvet drawstring pouch for protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2485    
WW1 Dennison MK V pocket compass with Singers Patent style dial dated 1916

Click Image to View Gallery

The majority of MK V British Army Officers pocket compasses were made during the WW1 period up to 1917, when they were superceded by the MK VI version.
This 1916 example is engraved 'Dennison Birmingham V 105660 1916' with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
The full hunter nickel case is in very good condition free of any dents, and the beveled glass crystal covers a Singers Patent style jewelled bearing dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2480    
Victorian brass cased travellers compass circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an elegant Victorian brass cased travellers compass with a very clean traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points, under a clean crystal.
The stylish blued steel needle has N & S engraved in gold lettering for clarity, and the brass case is in good condition, with no dents.
A fine antique compass dating to the mid 19th century, it has the classic compass rose design with a distinctive Fleur de Lis crest denoting North and its original brass push fit lid.
In full working order and measuring 45mm diameter and 12mm deep, it weighs just 40 grams, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2486    
Late 19th Century large Hunter Cased pocket dial compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A larger than usual full hunter cased pocket compass, with a decorative black on white floating card dial on a jewelled pivot, covered by a domed crystal which is in good undamaged condition.
Pocket watch style compasses are usually 45mm diameter, but this model is 52mm diameter and 16mm in depth.
In good working order, the case is in good dent free condition and has been polished back to brass on the outside which contrasts nicely with the nickel plating on the inside.
Although unsigned this is a quality compass in full working order, dating to the latter part 19th century.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2476    
Georgian period travellers mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to circa 1820, this impressive Georgian travellers compass is set in a hinged mahogany case measuring 67mm square.
Complimented by the small hand made triangular brass hinges and fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, and is in very good condition for a 200 year old compass.
The elegant blued steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' letters and sits under a clean glass crystal.
In good working order, the needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed, and two pins on either side of the dial to keep the lid flush with the main body.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, the mahogany case is free of any splits or cracks.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2465    
WW1 Era Francis Barker Hutchinsons Form Prismatic compass with case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a Hutchinsons Form Prismatic compass made by Francis Barker in the pre-WW1 period.
Engraved 'BARKERS PATENT PAT: No:29677 1910' it has seven cardinal and intercardinal points etched into the frame body and would have been used for either mining or military purposes.
A precision instrument which incorporates a prismatic compass, consisting of a black on white aluminium dial with red dot North point and a transparant 360 degree outer rim (per the patent), a folding sight vane and its original leather case which is in very good condition with all stitching intact.
In excellent condition, the black anodised brass retains virtually all its original finish and is in good working order, weighing 260 grams in its case and measuring 70mm in diameter across the main body.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2421    
Antique Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass - circa 1820

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to circa 1820, this impressive Georgian compass is set in a hinged mahogany case measuring 3" (75mm) square, with a half chamfer on the lid.
Complimented by the small hand made brass hinges and fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, and is in very good condition for a 200 year old compass.
The elegant blued steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' gold letters for clarity, and sits under a glass crystal which is free of any damage.
In good working order, the needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed.
Apart from two lightly scored intersecting lines on the lid, the mahogany case is free of any splits or cracks and has a warm patination that only comes with the passage of time.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2455    
Negretti & Zambra green card prismatic compass, circa 1880

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a Victorian green card prismatic compass engraved 'NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON' on the separate lid.
Dating to the second half of the 19th century, circa 1880, this would have been a precision instrument of high quality in its time, and likely used for surveying by both military and civilian personnel.
The large upright sight vane locks the compass card for transit, and the front prismatic viewer has a brass swivel dust cover.
Made of black lacquered brass, with a separate push on lid for protecting the glass crystal, the floating card pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction.
In good cosmetic condition and despite the outer casing showing its age, the interior is very clean and tidy.
Measuring 100mm in diameter and 25mm in depth, it weighs just over 500grams and is in full working order.
It comes in a modern velvet drawstring pouch for protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2437    
Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass circa 1880

Click Image to View Gallery

An elegant mid Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to around 1880, it has a glass crystal which is retained by a brass bezel, and a shapely blued steel needle, with ‘N’ & ‘S engraved in gold lettering.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition, the lid is attached with two rectangular hinges and the transit lock activates on lid closure, fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp.
Measuring 70mm x 70mm x 20mm, a nice antique compass in good working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2433    
Early 1900's Ross non prismatic marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the early 1900's, this Ross marching compass is very similar to the Verner's MK III patterns and was likely Ross's own design.
The lid is engraved 'ROSS Ltd, 31 COCKSPUR St. S.W. just above the small sighting window.
A non prismatic model, the white compass card is surrounded by a silvered bearing ring with a brass manual stop & finger brake on one side.
In full working order, it measures 2" in diameter and is in good cosmetic condition, with a chip free crystal.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2438    
WW1 Dennison MK VI British Army Officers pocket compass dated 1917

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice condition WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved Dennison Birmingham VI 121020 1917 and with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
The full hunter nickel case is in very good condition. The bevelled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial.
In full working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem, a nice example from the most prolific maker of this style of compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2426    
Early Victorian pocket compass in leather covered outer case.

Click Image to View Gallery

Early Victorian nickel bodied pocket compass set in a burgundy velvet lined, leather covered outer case.
Direction is indicated by an elegant blued steel needle, engraved N & S in gold for clarity, above a traditional enamelled dial, all set under a clean domed shape crystal.
Dating from around 1850, not only is this compass a rare item, but the condition is excellent, including the outer case which still has its original ornate brass clasp.
Measuring 43mm diameter, the compass is in full working order and although unsigned, a quality antique in excess of 150 years old.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2428    
Early 19th Century Travellers Compass by W & S Jones, London

Click Image to View Gallery

An early 19th Century mahogany cased travellers pocket compass circa 1820, made by W & S Jones LONDON as written around the centre of the dial.
Founded in the late 18th century by their father John Jones and later taken over by brothers William and Samuel, W & S Jones was a prolific optical, mathmatical and navigational instrument manufacturer between 1791-1860, and operated out of 30 Holborn London until Samuels death in 1859.
A rare example, with both crystal and dial in good condition, it measures 3" (75mm) square and has a half chamfer on the lid attached to the base by two hand made brass hinges.
The shapely blued steel needle-engraved N & S for clarity, pivots above a traditional paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass and a fleur de lys for North.
In good working order with a functioning transit lock that activates on lid closure, a very collectable compass by an important maker.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2423    
Col. Verner's Sergeant's compass by J. H. Steward, circa 1895.

Click Image to View Gallery

Introduced in 1895, this Col. Verner's Sergeant's non prismatic compass by J. H. Steward is the forerunner to the successful range of Verner's pattern compasses, used extensively by the British military throughout WW1 until the start of WW2.
Designed by Colonel William Willoughby Cole Verner (1852-1922) who served in the Boer war, this is a fine example of what is a significant compass in the development of military pocket compasses.
It measures 45mm diameter across the body, and incorporates an automatic transit lock activated by lid closure.
A rare and important compass for military collectors, it's in good working order and the cosmetic condition is surprisingly good for a compass that is over 120 years old.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2419    
Francis Barker M-73 prismatic compass, Mils version with case

Click Image to View Gallery

Considered to be the best hand held military compass in the world, this Francis Barker M-73 prismatic compass is in virtually mint condition with no paint loss, as can be seen from the photos.
Currently in use by many military forces around the world including NATO, it's made from brass/aluminium, and this example carries the Nato stock no 6605-99-960-0789 on the reverse, along with its serial no '88572' .
It's the liquid filled mils version with a precision sapphire bearing and comes with a quality stitched leather case and shoulder strap for protection in the field.
You really can't get a more accurate compass, and this is perfect for anyone involved in outdoor pursuits who needs a precision compass.
In good working order with no bubbles in the liquid, the tritium lights on the dial appear to still be active, although not as bright as when new, and there is no tritium light on the lid slot.

Weighs just over 360 grams in its case.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2412    
Late 19th century Francis Barker mahogany desktop compass with Trademark London logo

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an impressive desk top compass measuring 6 ½" (165mm) in diameter, and made by Francis Barker & Son carrying their small but familiar Trade Mark London, arranged in a triangle with an inset logo reading B&S.
The attractive paper dial is in clean condition and is set under a jewelled steel needle measuring nearly 4.5" (115mm) in length, the glass crystal is also original and in excellent condition.
Weighing just under 300 grams and dating to around 1890, this mahogany cased compass was probably intended for use as an interesting desk ornament, a purpose it would still fulfil today.
In full working order, it finds North well and takes a little time to settle, a quite splendid Victorian compass with rare novelty value.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2411    
Early Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass, circa 1860.

Click Image to View Gallery

An early Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to around 1860, it has its original glass crystal which is retained by a brass bezel, and a stylish blued steel needle, impressed with ‘N’ & ‘S’ gold letters.
As with many wood cased compasses of the period this is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base, was a feature used predominately by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition and a transit lock activated on lid closure.
A classic 19th century antique, it measures 62mm x 62mm x 16mm, and the lid is fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2409    
Early 19th century travellers compass by Robert Bancks, London.

Click Image to View Gallery

Wood cased compasses are for the most part unsigned, but this travellers compass has a makers name which reads BANCKS LONDON on the lid.
Dating to sometime between 1796 to 1820 this is Robert Bancks, optician to the Prince of Wales who later became King George IV.
Better known for his microscopes, his instruments were signed either Banks or Bancks, and later in 1820 became Bancks & Son, who made microscopes & telescopes for Charles Darwin.
Set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points, it's in very good condition with a glass crystal retained by a brass bezel, and a shapely blued steel needle engraved 'N' & 'S' in gold letters.
In good working order, the lid is attached with two hand made square hinges and is fastened with a central brass clasp activating a transit lock when closed.
Measuring 3" (75mm) square, a very collectable compass that is well over 200 years old and signed by a renowned maker with Royal accreditation.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2402    
19th century Negretti & Zambra prismatic compass retailed by Hirsbrunner & Co Shanghai.

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass cased, green card dial prismatic compass will be of particular interest to Negretti & Zambra collectors as it also carries the name of 'Hirsbrunner & Co Shanghai' who were sole agents for importing Negretti & Zambra instruments in to China.
Made towards the end of the 19th century circa 1890, the compass is in good cosmetic condition with a clean crystal window, under which the green dial pivots on a gemstone bearing.
In full working order, this is a quality antique instrument measuring 70mm diameter & comes with its original leather case which is also in good condition.
Compass and case together weigh just over 270 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2318    
WW1 J H Steward Angle of Sight instrument H.A. MK 1 dated 1916.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a very early WW1 'Angle of Sight' instrument with a low serial number, and made by J H Steward in 1916.
Most examples I have seen in the past were from the WW2 period, so quite unusual to find one this early in such good condition.
Constructed from bronzed brass, its engraved 'Angle of Sight Instrument, H.A. MK I, J. H. Steward Ltd, 1916, No 419'.
It comes with the original leather case also numbered 419, which carries the War Department arrow showing that it was military issue.
A precision instrument which incorporates a prismatic compass, consisting of a green card dial with Fleur de Lis North pointer, and a clinometer visible in the vertical plane.
In excellent condition retaining virtually all its original finish, and in full working order this type of instrument was often used by artillery regiments in the British army for range calculations and targeting heavy guns.
In good working order, weighing 425 grams in its case and measuring 70mm in diameter across the main body.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2395    
British Army officers Mk VII pocket compass signed T.A.R.S & W Ltd

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of a full hunter cased pocket watch style compass, with a gemstone pivot floating dial, engraved 'Mark VII, T.A.R.S & W Ltd, B10963'.
Made in the pre WW2 period, this is the MK VII version which was the last model of the hunter cased pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1, and this particular one carries the War Dept arrow denoting it was issued to the military.
The initials stand for T. A. Reynolds. Son & Wardale who were instrument makers of the time, but the prefix B on the serial number indicates that the compass was probably sourced by Reynolds from Francis Barker who almost certainly made the compass.
In excellent condition, the case is good with no dents and a clean undamaged crystal, all in fine working order, including an automatic transit lock when lid closed.
Measures 45mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2382    
Antique Victorian brass compass signed Gregory & Co, London.

Click Image to View Gallery

This very distinctive Victorian pocket compass is engraved 'Gregory & Co London' inside the lid, but it also has the Francis Barker trademark logo stamped in the centre, so was probably made by Barker for retail by Gregory.
The compass is in very good condition and direction is indicated by an English cross bar needle with a gemstone pivot bearing above a clean paper dial, all housed under a clean glass crystal.
In full working order, the brass hunter case is free of any dents and activates a transit lock when the lid is closed.
An elegant yet robust antique compass measuring 45mm diameter and 15mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2397    
A late Victorian hunter cased pocket compass with cross bar needle

Click Image to View Gallery

This late 19th century hunter cased pocket compass has an English cross bar needle which pivots on a red gemstone bearing for reduced friction, above a traditional dial with 16 cardinal & inter cardinal points.
Protected by a slightly bevelled domed glass crystal, the clean card dial is stamped 'ENGLAND' and separated into 90 degree quadrants, surrounding a black and white starburst design with 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points.
In full working order including the lid activated transit lock, it measures just 37mm in diameter not including the bow.
This diminutive pocket compass finds North easily and is in good cosmetic condition with no dents on the nickel case.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2387    
WW1 Military Souvenir compass owned by Major Lensh Egyptian Expeditionary Force

Click Image to View Gallery

A rare example of a WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved 'MNF BY L. KAMM WAR SOUVENIR 1914-1919 LONDON' made as a commemorative piece.
On the underside is the name of the owner 'W.F. Lensh' who I believe was William F Lensh MBE, a Major in the Egyptian Expeditionary Force, whose battlefield successes played a prominent role in the defeat of the Ottoman Empire during WW1.
Housed in a Dennison nickel case which is in excellent condition, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive jeweled bearing floating dial that has all its original markings intact.
In full working order, with a strong hinge including the transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2374    
Genuine WW1 Officers MK V pocket compass signed Stanley London

Click Image to View Gallery

Although Stanley was a well known maker of scientific instruments, not many WW1 British Army Officers pocket compasses were made by him.
This particular compass is signed 'Stanley, London, V, 113796, 1917' with the military arrow engraved on the lid, it's in good working order and a very collectable compass.
Housed in a Dennison nickel case, the attractive Singers patent style black & white dial with all of its original markings complete, pivots on a gemstone bearing and sits under a glass crystal.
Measuring approx 45mm diameter, this is a nice example of the charismatic WW1 compasses, and with so many reproduction instruments bearing the name Stanley London on the internet, it's a treat to find one of the few genuine items with the MK V design.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2386    
Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass - Circa 1830

Click Image to View Gallery

An impressive Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 53mm square with an attractive paper dial, it dates to the early part of the 19th century circa 1830.
Complimented by the small hand made triangular hinges, fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all 32 cardinal and intercardinal points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North and is in surprisingly clean condition for a compass which is close to 200 years old.
Though a little worn, the shapely blued steel needle is impressed with 'N' & 'S' gold lettering for clarity, and sits under the original glass crystal which is free of any damage.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it's in full working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2385    
Mid 19th century mahogany cased pocket compass signed Lennie Edinburgh

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a very elegant mid 19th century pocket compass circa 1865, set in a hinged mahogany block.
It has a shapely blued steel needle engraved N & S in gold lettering, with a paper dial divided into four quadrants of 90 degrees, and also showing all the points of the compass.
Although impressed 'Lennie 46 Princes St Edinburgh' inside the lid, the concealed hinges were a feature almost exclusively used by Francis Barker, and its very likely this was made by Barker for rebranding by Eliza Lennie who traded from the 46 Princes St address from 1857.
Fastened with an attractive 7 shaped brass clasp, this is a nice compass in good condition, albeit with some light age staining on the dial.
Measuring 45mm square, this is a classic Victorian compass, in full working order including the transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2364    
Genuine Stanley London pocket compass circa 1890's

Click Image to View Gallery

Signed 'STANLEY LONDON' this is a stylish example of a late Victorian hunter cased pocket compass with a floating aluminium dial on a gemstone pivot.
It's in very good clean condition with a clear undamaged crystal, on which the main cardinal points are painted in red on the underside.
The brass body measures 55mm in diameter not including the bow, and is also in good condition with no dents.
This is a sturdy compass in full working order, and there is also a transit lock activated by lid closure to secure the dial when not in use.
A genuine Stanley antique compass not to be confused with the many repros sadly carrying that name!

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2354    
Troughton & Simms WW1 Royal Artillery trough compass dated 1915

Click Image to View Gallery

This trough compass is signed 'TROUGHTON & SIMMS LONDON 1915 II' plus a military crowsfoot and serial no. 5529. The mahogany case is inscribed '13 RA' on both the sliding lid and the underside, suggesting it was issued to one of the the Royal Artillery brigades.
Not used as a traditional compass and known also as a plane table compass, it was used by surveyors to establish the direction of magnetic North when aligning a plane table map.
In good working order, the needle of the compass consists of a long narrow magnetised bar of steel, pointed at both ends, with a gemstone bearing at its centre for reduced friction, it also has a manual transit lock when the lid is slid in place.
In excellent condition and housed in a mahogany case, it measures 170mm x 40mm x 28mm, and weighs just over 300 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2369    
1907 compass belonging to Australian surveyor Herbert Wrake Walker

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the early 20th century, this non prismatic compass is very similar in dial design to the early Verners pattern examples and reads 'NIGHT MARCHING COMPASS H.W.W. 1907' and belonged to Australian Surveyor Herbert Wrake Walker.
Herbert Walker was a surveyor in Queensland, Australia in the late 19th and early 20th century and amassed a collection of surveying photographs that are still displayed in the New South Wales Art Gallery today.
After his death in 1956, his widow presented the compass to Lt. Col. Edwin Harold Bowen in 1963 (see photo for paperwork). Bowen had served as a Major and Captain (Deputy Commissaries) in the Corp of Royal Pakistani Army during World War II, he was awarded an OBE in 1954 before retiring with an honorary rank of Lt Colonel in 1955.
In full working order, this relatively rare compass measures 2" in diameter and is in good condition, with its centre paper label intact, under a chip free crystal.
Not only a sought after compass for a collector, but still practical today for hill walking and similar pursuits, it comes in a leather case which is also in good condition with all stitching intact.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2372    
Late Victorian brass cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This relatively small brass cased Victorian pocket compass measures just 37mm in diameter and dates to the latter part of the 19th century.
Although unsigned it is a well made piece, with a shapely blued steel directional needle engraved 'N' & 'S' in gold letters for clarity.
The paper dial is in excellent condition with no tears or lifting and is protected by a clean crystal held in place with a black bezel and includes a functional transit lock activated by lid closure.
In good condition and free from any dents, this elegant antique compass is in full working order.
Dimensions are 37mm diameter and 10mm deep including the domed lid, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.
Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2358    
Francis Barker large Victorian desk top compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the latter part of the 19th century, this large mahogany cased compass measuring 8.5" square was originally made for educational purposes but today makes an impressive desk ornament.
The only markings are the words Trade Mark London, arranged in a triangle above the North fleur de lis, and within the triangle is a combination of 3 letters and one symbol, F B & S. These are superimposed over each other to form the logo of Francis Barker & Son, and the S is reversed, showing this was made after the death of Francis Barker in 1875.
The attractive paper dial is in exceptional condition with no staining as is often found in other compasses of the period, and is set under a jewelled steel needle measuring 6.5" in length, the glass crystal is also original and in excellent condition.
However please note that over the years the base section of the mahogany case has warped slightly producing a gap between the lid & base, (see photos) which although noticeable doesn't detract too much from what is a quite splendid Victorian compass with rare novelty value.
A substantial instrument it weighs just under 900 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2315    
19th century Francis Barker mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A very elegant mid 19th century Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to around 1870, it has a glass crystal which is retained by a brass bezel, and a shapely blued steel needle, with ‘N’ & ‘S engraved in gold letters.
As with many wood cased compasses of the period this is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base, was a feature used predominately by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition and a transit lock activated on lid closure. Fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp, it measures 50mm x 50mm x 16mm, a real classic piece with a traditional design.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2355    
Mid 19th Century  Mariners gimballed compass signed J Bedington

Click Image to View Gallery

This impressive mid 19th century Mariners gimbal mounted boat compass is signed 'J BEDINGTON & SON, MAKERS, BIRMINGHAM ENG' on a brass plaque. James Bedington, operated out of Birmingham between 1862 - 1875 after the dissolution of Cutts, Chesterman & Bedington in 1859.
The traditional floating dry card dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and has 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points with a distinctive fleur de lis denoting North.
In excellent condition all round, the dial is clean with a clear glass crystal and a dent free lacquered brass bowl.
The compass is mounted in a dove tail jointed dark oak box with a separate lid, and measures 7" square by 5" deep, with a compass bowl diameter of just over 4½".
In good working order, this is a substantial instrument weighing just over 1.5kgs.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2328    
WW1 era Verner's Pattern MKVIII prismatic marching compass  in case

Click Image to View Gallery

Although unsigned with no markings, this compass design is identical to the Verner's Pattern MK VIII models produced towards the end of WW1.
In good condition all round with a Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, it has a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and there is a transit lock activated by lid closure.
The brass case is dent free and retains much of its black finish, it also comes in a leather case which is in good condition with all stitching intact.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2348    
Francis Barker WW2 British Army Officers pocket compass in Dennison case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW2 full hunter cased British Army Officers pocket compass, engraved 'MK VI 1940, F Barker &Son (1932) Ltd, London, B 6438' on the lid and also has the War department military arrow, which shows it was issued into service.
Made by Francis Barker and set in a Dennison hunter case, its in very good condition, with a bevelled glass crystal covering the jewelled floating dial.
Measuring 45mm in diameter and in full working order, with a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2346    
Early 19th Century travellers mahogany cased compass by William Simms

Click Image to View Gallery

Wood cased compasses are for the most part unsigned, but this travellers compass in a mahogany case, has a makers name which although partially obscured, reads ‘Wm SIMMS’ at the very north point of the dial (see photo).
William Simms inherited his fathers jewellery business in the early 1800s which was soon converted to the manufacture of scientific instruments.
In 1826, Simms joined with Edward Troughton to form the famous partnership of Troughton & Simms, dating this compass to the early 19th century.
The decorative paper compass dial has a full 360 degree scale with 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points and is in particularly clean for a compass of this age.
The lid is attached with two hand made square hinges and is fastened with two brass clasps which also activate the transit lock when closed.
In good working order, the blued steel needle is engraved with 'N' and 'S' lettering and still visible, although somewhat tarnished through age.
Measuring just under 5¼ " (132mm) square, this is a near 200 year old antique compass signed by a renowned maker in his early career.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2351    
WW2 J.M. Glauser MK IX prismatic marching compass with case

Click Image to View Gallery

The WW2 MK IX prismatic marching compass is very similar to the original Verner's style compasses of WW1, with only subtle differences.
This particular example is engraved on the reverse 'J.M. GLAUSER, LONDON, No 5499, MK IX, 1936' and also marked with the War office military arrow.
Founded in 1929 by Jean Maurice Glauser a naturalised British subject of Swiss origin, the company J.M. Glauser became a British manufacturer contracted to the War Office, Air Ministry and Government of India, amongst others.
The compass has a mother of pearl dial with a gemstone bearing, and is in very good condition, retaining virtually all its original black finish.
It comes with a leather case embossed 'M. Harvey & Co Ltd, Walsall, 1938' which is also in very good condition, with intact stitching and a functional buckle and strap.
In full working order, including the automatic transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2335    
Early Victorian brass cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an impressive antique brass cased pocket compass dating to the first half of the 19th Century.
It has a shapely blued steel needle is impressed with 'N' & 'S' gold lettering and pivots on a brass capped bearing over a paper dial which is divided into quadrants with 8 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Although unsigned, it's in good condition with some age staining on the dial, and the brass case is dent free with a polished finish. It also has a separate push fit lid that engages a transit lock when pushed home.
Measuring 60mm in diameter, it is in full working order and comes in a modern velvet drawstring pouch for protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2338    
19th century brass cased compass with lid

Click Image to View Gallery

This elegant brass cased explorer’s style compass with a separate push fit lid dates to the second half of the 19th century.
It's an unsigned example and has a with an English cross bar needle pivoting on a gemstone bearing over a clean paper dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
In working order and measuring 44mm in diameter, the brass case is free of any dents as is the matching original lid and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2324    
M73 specification prismatic compass by Enbeeco

Click Image to View Gallery

Although this liquid filled prismatic compass is engraved 'Enbeeco' on the reverse, which is a brand name of Newbold & Bulford Co Ltd, it was made to a similar specification of the M73 when the company was part of the same group of companies as Francis Barker & Son during the 1970's and 80's.
It's a substantial compass weighing 234 grams and 60mm in diameter with a degrees version mother of pearl dial.
A serious compass ideal for anyone involved in outdoor pursuits who needs a precision compass, the liquid damping effect gives precise readings very quickly.
Probably made for the civilian market, it comes in a leather case embossed with 'Dept of Forestry 10 George Sq.' indicating it came from the Department of Forestry in Edinburgh, Scotland.
In good working order with no bubbles in the liquid it's in very good condition, although due to its age the tritium lights are no longer active.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2322    
WW1 Dennison MK VI British Army Officers pocket compass dated 1917

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass in a nickel full hunter case, engraved Dennison Birmingham VI 19565 1917, and military arrow on the lid.
In very good condition, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive Jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In full working order, with strong hinge, a really nice example from the most renowned maker of this style of compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2323    

WW1 Swiss made Bausch & Lomb Verner's Pattern MK VIII marching compass.

Click Image to View Gallery

This Bausch & Lomb WW1 Verner's pattern MK VIII prismatic marching compass was made in Switzerland for the British army during WW1 and is dated 1917.
Engraved on the underside is 'B-L, No 70473, 1917' and stamped with the British Army War department arrow.
In very good condition all round, with minimal paint loss it has a mother of pearl dial which pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and there is an automatic transit lock activated when the lid is closed.
It still has its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, and the leather case is also in good condition.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2319    
Early Victorian brass cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Although unsigned, the design & style of this pocket compass is identical to one made by a relatively unknown maker W. H Moralee who was working in North Shields during the first half of the 19th century.
A quality piece, it has a distinctive black & white floating card dial of 32 cardinal and intercardinal points with a fleur de lis denoting North.
Housed in dent free brass case with original push fit lid and a clean glass crystal, it's in good working order and measures 45mm diameter by 14mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2314    
J H Steward Handle compass with clinometer

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the early part of the 20th century, this Handle compass clinometer was made by J H Steward, and is signed 'J. H. STEWARD Ltd, 406 Strand, London' on the underside.
The black compass needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above a decorative dial with a 360 degree scale, and 16 intercardinal points.
Mainly used by surveyors, it also incorporates a pendulous arm for measuring rise & fall.
Measures 75mm in diameter, it's in full working order including the transit lock which is activated by a brass knob on the side, and comes in a velvet pouch for protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2297    
19th century brass cased compass signed Parry & Co

Click Image to View Gallery

Engraved 'PARRY & CO', this is an impressive 19th century hand held floating dial compass and comes with its original push on protective brass lid.
Parry & Co worked from 158 High Holborn but also made instruments for export and this particular compass was made for the French market.
The card dial pivots on a cone shaped brass bearing, and has French compass points with the letter O for West (Ouest), with a black star indicating North.
Housed in a brass drum under a clean crystal it measures 80mm in diameter by 45mm high and although it is in working order it is a little sluggish in finding North.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2117    
Antique J H Steward pocket compass with mother of pearl dial, circa 1880

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the latter part of the 19th Century, this distinctive pocket compass has the classic black & white Singers patent design on a mother of pearl dial. A rare compass made around 1880, the dial is signed 'J. H. Steward. 406. Strand. London.'.
Floating on a gemstone pivot in a nickel case and housed under a bevelled glass crystal, it measures 44mm diameter overall, and 11 mm deep, and has a transit lock activated by a push button on the stem.
In full working order, a traditional antique compass in very good condition, supplied in a modern gift box.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2311    
Francis Barker brass cased pocket compass circa 1880

Click Image to View Gallery

A small Victorian brass cased pocket compass with a separate push fit lid made by Francis Barker & Son around 1880, as evidenced by the small FBS logo within the Trademark London triangle, and printed on the card dial just below the North cardinal point.
The English cross bar directional needle pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
In good working order, the brass case is free of any dents or deformities and includes a lid activated transit lock.
The dimensions are 35mm diameter by 14mm deep and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2302    
WW1 Dennison MK VI British Army Officers pocket compass dated 1918

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice condition WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved Dennison Birmingham VI 84271 1918 and with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
The full hunter nickel case is in very good condition, although the engraving is slightly faded (see photo). The bevelled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In full working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem, a nice example from the most prolific maker of this style of compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2287    
Antique early 19th century mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A small but impressive Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 53mm square with an attractive paper dial, it dates to the early 1800's.
The lid has small hand made triangular hinges, and is fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.
With a shapely blued steel needle impressed with 'N' & 'S' lettering for clarity, it pivots over a clean paper compass rose, showing all the points of the compass and a fleur de lys for North.
A genuine antique compass, it's in full working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2290    
WW1 Dennison MK V pocket compass with Singers Patent style dial - dated 1916

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice condition WW1 British Army Officers MK V pocket compass, engraved Dennison Birmingham V 101286 1916 and with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.

The full hunter nickel case is in very good condition, the domed glass crystal covers a Singers Patent style black & white floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In  working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2294    
WW2 Francis Barker artillery compass with leather case.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW2 Artillery compass made by Francis Barker during the 1930's and is engraved 'F.B. & Son. (1932) Ltd, B 1461' on the lid, it also has the military arrow which indicates it was issued into service.
A precision instrument measuring 100mm in diameter, it's in very good condition with the body & lid retaining most of its original oxidised black finish
In full working order, this is a prismatic compass with a 360 degrees silvered dial which finds North consistently, and is protected by a separate push fit lid.
It comes with its own fitted leather case which is also in good condition.
Weighing just over 700 grams with its leather case, the base also has a threaded boss for attaching to a tripod.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2249    
Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass circa 1820

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a fine example of a Georgian pocket compass circa 1820, set in a hinged mahogany block measuring 88mm square by 22mm thick.
Complimented by two small hand made hinges, it has a shapely blued steel needle engraved N & S for clarity, with an attractive paper compass rose divided into four 90 degree quadrants, showing all the points of the compass and a fleur de lys for North.
The needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed and fastened by two 7 shaped brass clasps.
In very good cosmetic condition, this is a genuine antique compass in good working order.
It also retains the original hand cut glass, and the paper dial is in surprisingly clean condition for a 200 year old compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2275    
WW1 Officers MK V pocket compass signed Ed. Koehn, Geneva.

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of one of the rarer British Army Officers MK V pocket compasses made by the Swiss watchmaker Ed Koehn, better known for producing high quality clocks and watches retailed by Tiffany & Co.
Engraved 'Ed KOEHN, GENEVA, SWITZERLAND, V, 40220, 1915' it also has the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued into service.
The full hunter case is in very good condition, retaining all of its nickel plating and comes with the distinctive Singers patent style black & white dial card, which pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction.
Housed under a clean bevelled glass crystal, it's in full working order and measures 45mm in diameter, not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2270    
Early 19th century antique mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This 19th century mahogany cased pocket compass measures 75mm square and has an attractive paper dial of a particularly early design, dating to the first quarter of the 19th century.
Complimented by the small hand made square hinges and fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lis for North, and is in quite clean condition for a compass of this age.
The shapely blued steel needle is engraved N & S and pivots on a brass capped bearing under a glass crystal.
A genuine antique compass, the mahogany is free of any splits or cracks, and is in full working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2222    
Francis Barker M-88 degrees version prismatic compass with pouch.

Click Image to View Gallery

This Francis Barker liquid damped M-88 prismatic compass has a degrees calibrated dial pivoting on a sapphire bearing, with a click step rotating bezel.
A military standard compass, it's made from a lightweight yet robust aluminium alloy and has 5 active self luminous tritium lights, enabling full night and daylight operation.
Although used the overall condition is very good with no loss of the olive green paint finish on the body, and it comes with a velcro pouch for protection in the field.
Measuring 60mm in diameter, it's in full working order with no bubbles in the fluid and has the serial no 03484.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2265    
Early 19th Century Surveyors Compass by W & S Jones

Click Image to View Gallery

Founded in the late 18th century by their father John Jones and later taken over by brothers William and Samuel, W & S Jones was a prolific optical, mathmatical and navigational instrument manufacturer between 1791-1860 and operated out of 30 Holborn London until Samuels death in 1859.
This brass bodied surveyors compass has a silvered dial with an outer ring scale divided into four quadrants and a steel needle pivoting on a gemstone bearing under a clean glass crystal.
On the outside of the frame is a manual transit lock to hold the needle in place when not in use and two plates in the North and South positions which would have been used to attach a pair of sight vanes for surveying purposes.
Although one of the small screws on the underside that retains the dial to the case is missing, it is still held securely by the remaining three and does not affect the compass function.
In good working order it measures 80mm in diameter and just under 300 grams in weight.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2233    
Francis Barker WW2 era MK IX prismatic marching compass in case

Click Image to View Gallery

This fine example of a MK IX prismatic marching compass is engraved on the reverse: F.BARKER & SON. (1932) Ltd, LONDON'.
Dating to the WW2 period, this compass was not only manufactured by Francis Barker & Son but actually carries their own branding. (As Barker had the patent rights for most of the military compasses, the bulk of their production was made for supply to many other instrument makers on a wholesale basis)
In full working order, it also has the traditional Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, and is in very good condition, retaining virtually all of its original black finish.
A dry dial compass with a gemstone pivot bearing, it has an automatic transit lock activated by lid closure, and protected by its leather case which is also in very good condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2230    
Late 19th Century brass pocket compass with T bar leather strap

Click Image to View Gallery

A late 19th century full hunter cased pocket compass with a traditional English cross bar needle that pivots on a gemstone bearing above an etched aluminium dial under a clean domed glass crystal.
The brass case has a gunmetal finish which although rubbed on the outside, has virtually no paint loss on the interior, and is dent free.
It comes with a T bar leather strap for attaching to a waistcoat button hole, and given the non reflective finish, indicates it may have belonged to a military officer.
Measuring 50mm diameter and 15mm thick, this is a sturdy yet attractive compass in full working order, with a strong hinge.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2196    
WW1 J H Steward Trough compass in mahogany case dated 1916

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass trough compass dated 1916 was made by J H Steward for use by the British Military during WW1, and is engraved 'J.H. Steward Ltd, II, 10022, 1916' with a military crowfoot arrow on the side.
Not used as a traditional compass and known also as a plane table compass, it was used by surveyors to establish the direction of magnetic North when aligning a plane table or theodolite.
The needle of the compass consists of a long narrow magnetised bar of steel, pointed at both ends, with the usual gemstone bearing at its centre for reduced friction.
In excellent condition and housed in a mahogany case with a sliding lid that activates a transit lock for when the instrument is not in use.
Measuring 165mm x 39mm x 28mm, it weighs 334 grams and is in good working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2175    
1920's Artillery compass by E.R. Watts & Son Ltd in leather case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a fine example of a prismatic artillery compass, made by E. R. Watts & Son London, during the 1920's.
It really is an impressive instrument measuring 85mm in diameter and incorporates an adjustable folding mirror on the back sight.
A substantial instrument weighing just over 500 grams including the case, there is also a threaded boss on the underside of the base for attaching to a tripod.
A precision item made to the highest quailty standard, it's in good cosmetic condition and comes with its original leather case, which is in very good condition with all stitching intact.
In full working order including the automatic transit lock, not only is this a very collectable compass but also still practical for use today.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2211    
Short & Mason MK VI pocket compass dated 1932

Click Image to View Gallery

This MK VI pocket compass was made by Short & Mason in 1932 and was probably one of the last examples before the introduction of the MK VII models.
Set in a nickel plated Dennison case, stamped 'DENNISON WATCH CASE CO LTD' inside the base cover.
Engraved on the lid 'SHORT & MASON LONDON VI № 1552, 1932', the full hunter nickel case is in good dent-free condition and the clean undamaged bevelled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial.
In full working order with a strong hinge, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2226    
19th century Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

An impressive Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 67mm square with an attractive paper dial, it dates to the early part of the 19th century circa 1820.
The lid is fixed with small hand made triangular hinges and fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.
Divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North the paper compass rose is in surprisingly clean condition for a compass which is close to 200 years old.
The shapely blued steel needle is impressed with 'N' & 'S' lettering for clarity, and sits under the original glass crystal which is free of any damage.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it's in full working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2198    
WW1 British Army Mark V Officers Compass signed L. Kamm & Co. London

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine example of a WW1 British Army Officers MK V pocket watch compass, engraved on the lid 'L. Kamm & Co, London, V,  49880, 1915, and military arrow.
It has a bevelled glass crystal covering the distinctive Singers patent style black and white floating dial, which is mounted on a jewelled brass bearing for reduced friction on the pivot point.
In very good condition and made by one of the rarer makers who did not use the more common Dennison case.
In good working order it measures 45mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2227    
E.R. Watts pre WW2 MK IX prismatic marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of a pre WW2 leather cased MK IX prismatic marching compass, engraved on the reverse: 'E.R.WATTS & SON Ltd, LONDON'.
E R Watts became Hilger & Watts in 1948, and the absence of any military markings suggests this compass was probably army surplus released to the civilian market sometime before 1948.
In good working order, it's in very good condition all round, with virtually no paint loss to the body and still has the rubber anti slip ring on the underside.
A precision compass, it has a floating dial which pivots on a gemstone bearing, and a clean undamaged crystal.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2181    
Rare WW1 Francis Barker Mk VII compass made for the Indian Army

Click Image to View Gallery

Whilst there are no real shortages of the WW1 Verner’s Pattern prismatic compasses, this particular example is a rare version of a MK VII model, but with a black embossed dial.
Manufactured between 1915 -1930 by Francis Barker & Son for the Indian Army which was still under British rule, it is inscribed 'Mk VII' on the lid and 'M.I.O 1917' on the base, along with a military crowfoot above an 'I', indicating it was part of the Indian Army.
The leather case is embossed with a military arrow on both sides above a 'T'.
The specification is similar to the Verner's pattern MKVII model produced for the British Army with the floating jewelled pivot dial, and as can be seen from the photos is in excellent condition, retaining all of its original black finish on the lid.
In good working order, it still has the rubber anti slip ring on the base underside.
A rare compass from the WW1 era dated 1917, it comes in it's original leather carrying case which is in very good condition with all its stitching intact.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2164    
Early Victorian brass cased floating dial compass with domed lid.

Click Image to View Gallery

This attractive early Victorian brass cased pocket compass dates to the first half of the 19th century.
Although unsigned this compass is clearly a quality piece with an unusual and distinctive black on white dial which has 8 cardinal and inter cardinal points with a fluer de lis indicating north and pivots on a brass capped bearing.
Housed in a polished dent free brass case with original domed lid, it's in full working order and measures 50mm diameter by 16mm deep.
It comes in a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2189    
19th century Georgian brass cased compass with lid

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an impressive 19th century brass cased pocket compass circa 1830, with a separate push on lid.
It has a shapely steel needle with light tarnishing, pivoting on a brass capped bearing over a paper dial divided into degrees, and also showing 32 cardinal & inter-cardinal points of the compass.
An unsigned antique compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition, it has a dent free brass case with lightly hand scribed directional arrows on the lid and base.
Measuring 60mm in diameter, it is in full working order, a classic Georgian compass with a traditional dial design.
Comes in modern velvet drawstring pouch for protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2184    
Large 19th century Dollond mahogany cased surveyors compass.

Click Image to View Gallery

This impressive English surveyors compass was made sometime at the beginning of the 19th century and is signed 'Dollond London' on the dial, which has a stepped outer scale engraved 0-360 degrees in one degree increments.
The cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above the silvered dial under a clean, chip free glass crystal, and also has a lid activated transit lock.
A substantial quality compass example it measures 150mm x 150mm x 29mm, with a dial diameter of 125mm, and weighs just under 700 grams.
The cosmetic condition of the dial is excellent and although the mahogany case lid has had some restoration with a narrow piece replaced around one part of the hinge area (see photos), the overall appearance is still very good as can be seen from the photos.
A near 200 year old antique compass in good working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2113    
Francis Barker M88 military compass with dual use dial & pattern 58 canvas pouch

Click Image to View Gallery

The Francis Barker range of liquid filled prismatic compasses are among the finest professional compasses ever made, and are currently in use by many military forces around the world including NATO.
This particular model is the M88 which is made from a lightweight yet robust aluminium alloy, and has 5 active self luminous tritium lights enabling full night and day operation.
The M88 is a dual use model, calibrated in both mils and degrees, and the padded pouch has a clip for belt attachment.
It carries the Nato stock no 6605-99-225-8550 on the reverse along with its serial no 12687.
Although used, the overall condition is still very good with virtually no loss of the olive green paint finish on the body, and it comes with a used Pattern 58 canvas pouch for protection in the field.
A precision compass measuring 60mm in diameter and 30mm in depth, it's in working order with no bubbles in the liquid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2174    
Dollond Victorian hunter cased pocket compass with gemstone needle

Click Image to View Gallery

A Dollond Victorian pocket compass in a nickel plated full hunter case, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the bow.
Dating to the latter part of the 19th century, it's signed on the dial 'DOLLOND LONDON' around the pivot and is in good working order including the lid activated transit lock.
The cross bar needle pivots on a red gemstone bearing for reduced friction, above a traditional dial with 16 cardinal & inter cardinal points, protected by a slightly bevelled domed glass crystal.
Although the nickel plating is quite worn in places, the case is free of any dents and has a strong hinge.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2168    
Late Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A late Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with a clean paper dial signed 'ENGLAND' displaying 8 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to the late 19th Century, it has its original glass crystal over a brass capped steel needle.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition and a transit lock activated on lid closure.
Fastened with two elegant 7 shaped brass clasps, it measures 64mm square & 22mm thick and is in good working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2155    
Stanley G150 mils version prismatic compass with patt 58 canvas pouch

Click Image to View Gallery

A Stanley G150 mils version liquid filled prismatic compass, first used by the British Army in the Falklands conflict, and again in the first Gulf war.
This particular compass is in good condition with some paint loss on the brass body, and also has the Nato stock number 6605-99-537-9034 on the underside with the serial number of 36072.
This is a serious compass designed in the 1970's which ceased production under the Stanley name in the late 1990's, and is fast becoming a much sought after collectable.
In good working order it comes in a green pattern 58 canvas carry pouch and although the tritium lights are no longer active, it's still a robust precision compass with no air bubbles in the fluid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2103    
19th century Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an impressive 19th century Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 67mm square.
The attractive paper compass dial is graduated in 90 degree quadrants and dates to circa 1830.
Complimented by the small triangular hand made hinges and an elegant blued steel needle, this is a stylish antique compass which is approaching 200 years old.
Aside from some fading of the letters N & S on the needle, it is uncommon to find compasses of this age in such good condition, and it is in full working order including the original transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2095    
19th century brass cased pocket compass signed F.Barker & Son.

Click Image to View Gallery

A small 19th century brass cased compass with a separate push fit lid signed 'F.Barker & Son. Makers. London', around the sunburst design card dial just below the fleur de lis.
The cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
In good working order, the brass case is free of any dents or deformities and includes a lid activated transit lock.
The dimensions are 38mm diameter by 10mm deep and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2153    
Antique 19th century mahogany cased Mariners pocket compass, circa 1840

Click Image to View Gallery

A rare floating dial design mahogany cased Mariners pocket compass measuring just over 76mm square by 28mm deep.
The attractive paper compass dial card is of an earlier Regency design and in surprisingly clean condition.
Dating to circa1840 with cleverly concealed hinges, this is a clean compass which is well over 170 years old.
In good condition and in full working order, including the original transit lock, a nice example of an early antique compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2126    
WW1 Dennison  MK VI British Army Officers pocket compass dated 1917

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass in a nickel full hunter case, engraved Dennison Birmingham VI 48698 1917, and military arrow on the lid.
In very good condition, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive Jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In full working order, with a strong hinge, a really nice example from the most renowned maker of this style of compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2214    

Antique mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A Georgian pocket compass set in a mahogany block measuring 53mm square, with an elegant blued steel needle over a traditional paper dial.
The lid is attached to the body with two small hand made triangular hinges & fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp.
Dating to the first quarter of the 19th century, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants with 16 cardinal and intercardinal points.
The steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' gilt letters for clarity, and sits under the original glass crystal which is free of any damage.
In good working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2111    
Rare brass gimbal mounted pocket compass circa 1840

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the first half of the 19th century (circa 1840), this is a very rare brass gimballed pocket compass.
Housed in a brass case with a separate brass lid, it measures 90mm in overall diameter, and stands 52mm high.
In good original condition, the distinctive compass card pivots on a a gemstone pivot bearing, and sits in a 65mm diameter brass bowl which remarkably still has most of its original lacquer coat.
Although unsigned, this is clearly a quality instrument weighing just under 600 grams and probably made by one of the more prominent makers of the day.
In full working order including the gimbal mechanism, this is a quite unique antique compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2140    
Late 19th century Dollond early verners style marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the end of the 19th century, this Dollond compass is very similar to the Verners MK III patterns.
It's a non prismatic model, and the white compass card is surrounded by a silvered bearing ring with a brass manual stop & finger brake on one side. 
In full working order, it measures 2" in diameter and is in good cosmetic condition, with a chip free crystal.
Signed 'DOLLOND LONDON' on the lid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2066    
Francis Barker M88 mils & degrees prismatic compass with pattern 58 canvas pouch

Click Image to View Gallery

The Francis Barker range of liquid filled prismatic compasses are among the finest professional compasses ever made, and are currently in use by many military forces around the world including NATO.
This particular model is the M88 which is made from a lightweight yet robust aluminium alloy, and has 5 active self luminous tritium lights enabling full night and day operation.
This M88 is a dual use model, calibrated in both mils & degrees, and the padded pouch has a clip for belt attachment.
It carries the Nato stock no 6605-99-225-8550 on the reverse along with its serial no 19078.
Although used, the overall condition is still very good with no loss of the olive green paint finish on the body, and it comes with a used Pattern 58 canvas pouch for protection in the field. It measures 60mm in diameter and 30mm in depth, in working order with no bubbles in the liquid.
You really can't get a more accurate compass, and this is perfect for anyone involved in outdoor pursuits who needs a precision compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2138    
Late Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass with brass clasp

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of a late Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 75mm square with a decorative paper dial, it dates to the last quarter of the 19th century.
Fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose has 32 cardinal & intercardinal points with a fleur de lys for North, and is in clean condition.
The slim but elegant steel needle is impressed with 'N' for clarity, and pivots on a brass capped bearing under the original glass crystal.
A genuine antique compass in good cosmetic condition, it's in working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2129    
Rare Negretti & Zambra needle pocket compass in Dennison case

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of a Hunter cased pocket compass signed NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA LONDON, inside the lid, which dates to the early part of the 20th century, and is contained inside a Dennsion nickel case that has matching serial numbers on lid and base.
Fitted with an English cross bar needle that pivots on an agate gemstone, above an attractive frosted aluminium dial on which is printed 'ENGLAND'.
A super compass measuring 45mm in case diameter, it's in good working order including the lid activated transit lock, and the clean bevelled glass crystal is chip free.
In excellent condition all round with no dents on the case, a very collectable compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2125    
Antique Francis Barker mahogany cased needle compass with twin sight vanes

Click Image to View Gallery

This unusual compass with foldable sight vanes is set in a very attractive mahogany case, and fastened by twin brass clasps.
The English cross bar needle pivots over a traditional paper dial which has 32 cardinal & inter cardinal points, along with four 90 degree quadrants as an outer scale.
Like many wood cased compasses of the period it is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base was a feature used predominately by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker and dates to the mid 19th century.
In working order with a lid activated transit lock, this compass is in very good condition as can be seen by the photos, and measures 80mm square & 25mm deep, a rare design for a wood cased pocket compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2128    
19th century Victorian brass cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A very distinctive brass cased Victorian brass pocket compass dating to around 1860.
Although unsigned this compass is clearly a quality piece with a shapely blued steel needle engraved 'N' & 'S' in gold letters for clarity. The paper dial is in excellent condition with no tears or lifting, and is protected by a clean crystal.
The brass case is free from any dents and has its original push on lid.
In full working order, an elegant antique compass in good original condition.
Dimensions are 36mm diameter and 10mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2110    
Post WWI Verner's Pattern style MK VIII Italian marching compass with mils dial

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a relatively rare prismatic marching compass engraved 'OFF.CHINAGLIA BELLUNO' on the underside of the lid which indicates it was made in Italy, possibly from parts originally made in Britain as the design is very much based on the Verners Pattern MK VIII models produced towards the end of WW1.
Unlike the British examples which had a degrees dial, this has a mils dial which is rarely found in Verners pattern compasses and a tinted sight window in the lid.
The clean central dial is aluminium and as can be seen from the photos the compass body is in good condition with minimal loss of its black finish on the lid, and a clean undamaged glass crystal.
In good working order, it still has the rubber anti slip ring on the base underside.
A rare compass from the post WW1 era, it comes with it's orginal Italian leather carrying case which is very good condition with all its stitching intact.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2120    
Hilger & Watts plane table trough compass in mahogany case

Click Image to View Gallery

Formed from the incorporation of Adam Hilger Ltd with E.R. Watts Ltd in 1948, this is a marked Hilger & Watts Ltd black lacquered brass trough compass likely made in the 1950s.
Not used as a traditional compass and also known as a plane table compass, it was used to establish the direction of magnetic North when aligning a plane table or theodolite.
The compass needle consists of a long narrow magnetised bar of steel, pointed at both ends, with the usual agate bearing at its centre.
It also has a manual transit lock when the lid is slid in place, and is housed in a light mahogany case.
Measuring 167 mm x 40 mm x 30 mm, and weighing just over 300 grams, it's in good working order as well as excellent cosmetic condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2057    
Antique hunter cased pocket compass signed 'Chadburns Liverpool'

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a late 19th century nickel full hunter cased pocket compass signed 'CHADBURNS, LIVERPOOL'.
Formed in 1818 by William Chadburn and David Wright, the business was taken over by Williams' three sons by the 1840s. The firm also exhibited at The Great Exhibition in 1851 and gained provenance by specialising in ships telegraphs at the end of the century.
The cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction, above a clean white enamelled dial with 8 cardinal and inter cardinal points split into four 90 degree quadrants, set under a clean domed bevelled edge crystal.
A clean compass in working order it finds North easily and is in good cosmetic condition with no dents on the case.
Dating to circa 1880, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the bow.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2115    
Francis Barker M88 military prismatic compass with dual use dial in leather case.

Click Image to View Gallery

The Francis Barker range of liquid filled prismatic compasses are among the finest professional compasses ever made, and are currently in use by many military forces around the world including NATO.
This particular model is the M88 which is made from a lightweight yet robust aluminium alloy, and has 4 active self luminous tritium lights in the dial & capsule, but is missing the one that should be in the tip of the lid.
Although used, the overall condition is still good retaining most of the olive green paint finish on the body, and it comes with a stitched leather case for protection in the field, also in very good condition.
This M88 is a dual use model, with the dial calibrated in both mils & degrees, pivoting on a sapphire bearing, and has the serial no 060183 on the reverse.
It measures 60mm in diameter and 30mm in depth, finds North easily and settles quickly, with no bubbles in the clear fluid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
SOLD
SC2100  
A late Victorian hunter cased pocket compass with gemstone needle

Click Image to View Gallery

A late Victorian English made pocket compass in a nickel plated full hunter case, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the bow.
The cross bar needle pivots on a red gemstone bearing for reduced friction, above a traditional dial with 16 cardinal & inter cardinal points, protected by a slightly bevelled glass crystal.
Dating to the latter part of the 19th century, it doesn't have a makers name but has 'Made in England' on the dial.
A very clean compass in working order it finds North easily, and in good cosmetic condition with no dents on the case.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2108    
Rare Dennison WW1 MK VI compass with Union of South Africa military markings

Click Image to View Gallery

The Union of South Africa was created in May 1910 as a new dominion of the British Empire, and this particular Dennison compass was issued to the South African military in 1917.
It carries the Union of South Africa military mark which is denoted by the War Department arrow within the letter 'U' for Union and is engraved on the compass lid.
It's also engraved Dennison Birmingham VI, 56278, 1917, and with the military arrow on the lid showing it was issued in to service.
The full hunter nickel case is in very good condition, and the clean undamaged bevelled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial.
In full working order it measures 45mm in diameter, not including the stem.
An iconic WW1 compass with a rare South African provenance, it comes with a braided leather strap and T bar.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2114    
WW1 F. Darton & Co MK V pocket compass dated 1915

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a rare MK V British Army Officers pocket compass engraved 'F. Darton & Co. London,V, 9791, 1915.'
Housed in a dent free nickel plated full hunter case with its distinctive black & white Singers Patent style dial, it’s in good working order and the crystal is free from any chips.
It measures 45mm diameter not including crown and ring, the floating card dial finds North each time, and pivots on a jewel for reduced friction.
Unlike the majority of MK V compasses, the inner compass body is fixed to the nickel case by means of two small screws on the underside, which is a further design refinement, unique to only a very few makers including F Darton.
The MK V was discontinued during 1917, so this is likely to be one of the last models made by one of the rarer makers of this style of compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2093    
Late 19th century surveying compass by Thomas Cooke & Sons

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a late 19th century surveying compass signed 'T. COOKE & SONS LTD. LONDON, YORK & CAPETOWN'
Founded by Thomas Cooke in 1837, the business was continued by his sons Thomas and Frederick under 'T. Cooke & Sons' following his death in 1868 and became a limited company in 1897. The business manufactured many scientific instruments for prestigious clients including the Royal Observatory at Greenwich, and set up offices in Capetown to cater to the demand for surveying instruments in response to the Witwatersrand Gold Rush of 1886.
Made from bronzed brass, measuring just over 5 inches (130mm) in diameter and weighing just under 900 grams, this is an impressive surveying compass.
In full working order, the needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above the silvered aluminium dial under a clean, chip free glass crystal. The two sight vanes at either side also activate a transit lock when folded and the face remains protected under a matching press fit lid when not in use.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2101    
1930's 'HUSUN' gimbal mounted ships compass by Henry Hughes and Son Ltd.

Click Image to View Gallery

This 1930's gimbal mounted ships compass carries the famous Husun logo, the trademark of Henry Hughes and Son, the important & highly respected maker of quality nautical instruments.
The liquid damped dial is signed 'HENRY HUGHES & SON Ltd, LONDON' with the serial number 8778, and the fleur de lis is embedded with the small HUSUN logo.
In excellent condition all round, the damping fluid is clean with no air bubbles, and the glass cover is free from any chips, contained in a compass bowl retaining all of its black painted finish.
Housed in a finger jointed mahogany case measuring 7½"(190mm) square and 5½"(140mm) in height, the dial diameter is 105mm.
Weighing just under 3kg this is a serious ships compass that can still be used today.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2092    
WWI Verner's Pattern MK VIII compass inscribed 'ROYAL IRISH RIFLES MAJOR JDM MCCALLUM D.S.O.'

Click Image to View Gallery

Marked 'ROYAL IRISH RIFLES. MAJOR JDM MCCALLUM D.S.O.' on the lid, this WW1 Verner's Pattern MK VIII compass belonged to Major John Dunwoodie Martin McCallum.
McCallum was a recipient of the Distinguished Service Order during the battle of the Somme in 1916, along with the Croix de Guerre in 1918 and also received a CBE in 1921.
Military career aside, McCallum was a versatile sportsman representing Ireland in both cricket and rugby, although badminton was his premier sport where he not only played for Ireland, but also served as president of the IBF in later years.
In excellent cosmetic condition, it's engraved 'F-L No 92697, 1917' on the base and also has the War department military arrow.
Still retaining virtually all of its black finish on the lid, the Mother of Pearl dial and glass covers are also in very good condition as is the original leather case.
A genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history with some interesting provenance.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2091    
Victorian combined pocket compass & clinometer in mahogany case

Click Image to View Gallery

This unusual combined compass/clinometer is set in a very attractive mahogany case, with twin brass side fasteners.
The elegant blue needle pivots over a paper dial which has 32 cardinal & inter cardinal points with an inches per yard outer scale.
Like many wood cased compasses of the period it is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base was a feature used predominately by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker.
This compass is in superb condition as can be seen by the photos, and measures 73mm square & 19mm deep, a rare design for a wood cased pocket compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2088    
Antique victorian handle clinometer compass with brass lid

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a Handle compass clinometer, dating to the latter part of the 19th century.
The English cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above an unsigned silvered dial with a 360 degree scale, and an inner four 90 degree quadrant scale for the clinometer function, which has a pendulous arm for measuring rise & fall.
Readings of inclination are viewed through the handle sight which has a built in cross hair for accurate sighting of objects.
In good condition with no dents on the brass casing and a chip free crystal, it measures 60mm in diameter not including the handle and is in full working order including the transit lock which is activated when the push fit lid is replaced.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2022    
Late 19th century Negretti & Zambra pocket marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass marching compass dates to the end of the 19th century and is signed 'NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON' on the lid.
Very similar to the later Verners MK III patterns, it's a non prismatic model and the white compass card is surrounded by a silvered bearing ring, with a brass manual transit lock and finger brake on one side.
In good working order, it measures 50mm in diameter and is in good used condition, with a heavy bevelled crystal that emphasises the quality of this piece and comes in a leather case.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2030    
Very rare Short & Mason gimballed pocket compass with Singers Patent mop dial

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a particularly rare pocket compass made by Short & Mason in the late 19th century, housed in a leather covered wooden case and intended for use at sea, probably as a personal instrument.
The compass bowl is gimbal mounted in the nickel plated body which can be removed from its wooden case, and activated by pulling out the inner bezel to release the transit lock. Pushing the compass bowl back relocks the dial to avoid wear in transit.
It has a Singers Patent style mother of pearl dial which pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and as can be seen from the photos is in very good clean condition.
The compass measures 55mm in diameter and 17mm deep which extends to 25mm when the bowl is raised.
In good working order the only minor blemish is that the outer wooden case is a little warped on the lid so does not quite meet flush when closed.
A rare design of compass by a well respected maker, its' signed Short & Mason Ltd, London on the underside.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2060    
T.G. Co. MK III WW2 prismatic marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dated 1940, this is a fine example of a WW2 MK III prismatic compass, made by Francis Barker on a wholesale basis, and rebranded by T. G. Co Ltd.
It has a liquid damped bowl (no bubbles) with a mother of pearl dial calibrated in 360 degrees, and is in fine working order, finding North easily and settling very quickly.
The compass body is of blackened brass, with only some very minor paint loss here and there, and the original rubber anti slip ring on the base is still intact.
Engraved on the base is 'T.G. Co. Ltd. London, No.B 56440, 1940, MK III', it also has the War department broad arrow.
It comes with a sturdy leather carry case which is in good original condition.
A classic WW2 instrument that is not only a collectors piece but is still very much a functional compass, which compares well to the modern equivalents.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2032   15
WW1 era Short & Mason MK VII prismatic marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 era Short & Mason MK VII prismatic marching compass with leather case dated 1917.
Engraved on the underside is 'SHORT & MASON, LONDON, Ltd' and stamped MK VII on the lid. In very good condition all round, with a Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, it has a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and there is a transit lock activated by lid closure.
The brass case is dent free and still has its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, and the leather case is also in good condition.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2000    
Antique Dollond pocket compass with Singers Patent style mother of Pearl Dial

Click Image to View Gallery

This hunter cased pocket compass has the classic black & white Singers patent design but unusually on a mother of pearl dial,
Dating to circa 1880, this is a quality item made by Dollond, and is signed 'DOLLOND, LONDON' on the dial.
The clean dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and is set under a damage free crystal, encased within its nickel plated case which is in dent free condition, and retains its nickel plating.
In good working order with a strong hinge, this is quite a rare compass from one of the most renowned instrument makers of the 19th century, and measures 45mm diameter not including the bow.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2049    
Elliott & Sons brass cased explorers compass circa 1850-1854

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass cased pocket compass is signed 'ELLIOTT & SONS, 56 STRAND' on the dial around the pivot.
The founder William Elliott formed a partnership with his sons Frederick & Charles in 1850, and the firm became known as Elliott & Sons. However, the name was changed to Elliott Bros from 1854 after William retired in 1853, so we can date this compass quite accurately to between 1850 and 1854.
The stylish blued steel directional needle is engraved N & S in gold lettering & pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
In working order and measuring 60mm in diameter, the brass case is free of any dents or deformities as is the matching original lid and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2018    
WW1 F Darton MK VI Officers pocket compass dated 1917 with leather case

Click Image to View Gallery

A superb WW1 military pocket compass, engraved F Darton & Co London, VI, No 1793, 1917.
Unusually, the engraving is on the base of the compass, and also has the military arrow denoting it was War department issue. The inside of the lid is also stamped 179827 M.
The fully nickel plated case is in very good condition with no dents, and the bevelled glass crystal covers a clean aluminium dial pivoting on a gemstone bearing.
In full working order with a strong hinge, a fine compass from one of the rarer makers, it comes in a pigskin leather pouch which may be a later addition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2021    
Francis Barker M88 military compass with dual use dial
unissued in original cardboard box

Click Image to View Gallery

The Francis Barker range of fluid damped prismatic compasses are among the finest professional compasses ever made, and are currently in use by many military forces around the world including NATO.
This particular model is the M88, made from a lightweight yet robust aluminium alloy, and has 5 active self luminous tritium lights enabling full night and day operation.
A dual use model, it's calibrated in both mils & degrees, includes a matching lanyard and also carries the Nato stock no 6605-99-225-8550 on the reverse along with its serial no 13641. Still in its original cardboard box, it clearly has had very little use and the overall condition is excellent.
You really can't get a more accurate compass, and this is perfect for anyone involved in outdoor pursuits.
Measuring 60mm in diameter and 30mm in depth, it's in full working order with no bubbles in the fluid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1985    
Victorian Francis Barker Pocket Compass in mahogany case

Click Image to View Gallery

An early Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to around 1860, it has its original glass crystal which is retained by a brass bezel, and a flat blued steel needle, with the letters ‘N’ & ‘S.
As with many wood cased compasses of the period this is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base, was a feature used predominately by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition and a transit lock activated on lid closure. Fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp, it measures 65mm x 63mm x 16mm. A real classic piece with a traditional design.  

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1987    
Antique brass cased pocket compass signed 'AITCHISON LONDON'

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass cased pocket compass is signed 'AITCHISON LONDON' on the lid, dating to the latter part of the 19th or early 20th century, long before the merging of Dollond and Aitchison in 1927.
It has a distinctive floating aluminium dial, which pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clean crystal with the four main cardinal points painted in red on the underside.
The case is free from any dents and retains all its black coating inside and has a pleasing age patination on the outside.
In full working order with a transit lock activated by lid closure to minimise wear on the pivot, this is a rare example of a more unusual pocket compass by a prestigious instrument maker, measures 50mm diameter and 15mm deep and comes in a later velvet drawstring pouch for protection.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC2012    
Antique gimbal mounted Star Boston mariners compass, circa 1910.

Click Image to View Gallery

A small early 20th century gimbal mounted mariners compass inscribed 'Star Boston. U.S.A. 47813'. The Star Compass Company was founded in 1905 in Dorchester, Boston U.S.A. and specialised in liquid marine compasses.
The liquid damped dial is very clean and has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with the Star Compass Company logo denoting north.
In excellent condition all round, the damping fluid is clean with no air bubbles, and the glass cover is free from any chips, contained in a compass bowl retaining all of its black painted finish.
The compass is mounted in a box jointed mahogany case with a separate sliding lid, the dimensions are 4.5" square (114mm) by 3.5" deep (90mm), and the overall compass bowl diameter is just over 72mm with a dial diameter of 52mm.
Weighing just under 700 grams this is a robust little compass in good working order that is not only a collectors piece but also practical for todays use.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1969    
Barker & Son WW1 Verners style Mark V prismatic marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a relatively rare prismatic marching compass engraved 'PRISMATIC COMPASS MARK V' on the lid and was produced as an alternative to the more popular Verner's pattern models which were the mainstay of the British Army during WW1.
Whilst there are no real shortages of the WW1 Verner’s pattern compasses, numbers of the Barker's models are very much less, and the underside is engraved 'BARKER & SON, LONDON, No 1129, 1905' and also has the military arrow.
The clean central dial is mother of pearl for low light reading, and as can be seen from the photos the compass body is in good condition with minimal loss of its black finish on the lid, and a clean undamaged glass crystal. In good working order, it still has the rubber anti slip ring on the base underside.
A rare compass from the pre WW1 era, it comes with the leather carrying case which is very good condition with all its stitching intact.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1998    
19th century Tunbridge Ware cased compass with geometric star design

Click Image to View Gallery

Tunbridge Ware items originated from the spa town of Royal Tunbridge Wells and were at the height of their popularity in the 18th and 19th centuries.
This is an elegant victorian pocket compass housed within a Tunbridge Ware casing complete with domed lid and decorated with a geometric mosaic star design made up of natural coloured woods, the triangles surrounding the octagram being made from green oak.
The lid unscrews to reveal a stylish directional needle engraved N & S in gold lettering & pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points under an undamaged crystal with a Fleur de Lis North pointer.
Measuring 50mm in diameter by 17mm high and in good working order this is a particularly rare combination of compass and Tunbridge Ware design, all in very good condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1993    
Late 19th century Francis Barker brass cased compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This late 19th century brass cased compass with a separate push fit lid was made by Francis Barker & Son as evidenced by the small FBS logo within the Trademark London triangle, and printed on the card dial just below the North cardinal point.
The directional needle pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
In working order and measuring 40mm in diameter, the brass case is in excellent condition retaining all of its lacquer and is free of any dents or deformities.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1991    
WW1 Verners Pattern MK VII prismatic compass engraved 'ANGLO-SWISS ASSOCIATION'  belonging to Lieutenant Col. S.F. Thomas DSO

Click Image to View Gallery

A British Army WW1 Verner's Pattern MKVII prismatic marching compass with leather case, all in very good condition.
Marked S F Thomas on the case, this compass belonged to one Lieutenant Colonel Stanley Ford Thomas of the 6th Battalion Shropshire Light Infantry. Thomas was also a recipient of the Distinguished Service Order during the first World War and later promoted to Major on October 3rd 1922.
The leather case is embossed 'MARTINS-BIRMm LIMd 1916' with military arrow and has fully intact stitching and shoulder strap.
The compass is engraved 'ANGLO-SWISS ASSOCIATION No. 45553, 1915' on the base and stamped with the War department military arrow.
Still retaining virtually all of its black finish on the lid, the Mother of Pearl dial and glass crystal are in very good condition, and the base still has its original rubber anti-slip ring.
In full working order including the manual transit lock, and weighing in at just under 300 grams this is a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history with some interesting provenance.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1952    
WW1 Officers MK V pocket compass signed Stanley London, dated 1916.

Click Image to View Gallery

This British Army Officers hunter cased pocket compass is signed 'Stanley, London, V, 106544, 1916' with the military arrow engraved on the lid, and with so many reproduction instruments bearing the name Stanley London on the internet, its a rare treat to find one of the few genuine items with the MK V design.
The full hunter case is in excellent condition, retaining all of its nickel plating, and comes with the distinctive Singers patent style dial card, which pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and is housed under a clean beveled glass crystal.
In full working order, a very clean compass with a strong hinge, it measures 45mm in diameter, not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1974    
Late Victorian prismatic compass with folding sight vane

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass cased green card dial prismatic compass with folding sight vane was made toward the latter part of the 19th century, and is in good cosmetic condition with a clean crystal under which the dial pivots on a gemstone bearing.
Although unsigned this a quality antique instrument measuring 70mm diameter & comes with its original leather case which has had a small repair on the locking strap but is also in good condition with sound stitching.
In good working order, the compass and case together weigh just under 300 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1975    
WW1 Verners Pattern MK VIII compass by E R Watts& Son, dated 1918.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 Verner's pattern MK VIII prismatic marching compass dated 1918 with leather case.
Engraved on the underside is 'E.R. Watts & Son, London 1918, 118297' and stamped with the British Army War department arrow.
In very good condition all round, with a Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, it has a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and there is a transit lock activated by lid closure.
The brass case is dent free and still has its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, and the leather case is also in good condition.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1966    
Early 19th century French brass cased compass signed BURON PARIS.

Click Image to View Gallery

A very impressive explorers brass cased compass made in France during the early part of the 19th century.
Signed 'Buron Paris' the business was first established in 1788 by Buron and later carried on by his optician son from 1818 onwards who worked closely with Lerebours on landscape lenses for Daguerreotype cameras, and became a Knight of the Royal Order of the Legion d'Honneur in 1844.
The attractive floating dial is in very good legible condition, pivoting on a jewelled bearing and housed under a clean glass crystal.
The lacquered brass case is also in very good condition, still having most of its original lacquer, albeit with some minor surface tarnishing but no dents, and has its original push on protective brass lid.
In full working order, an early antique compass which measures 100mm diameter and 43mm deep with a weight of just under 350 grams.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1920    
Mid 19th century brass cased pocket compass by James Parkes.

Click Image to View Gallery

This explorers style compass dates to the mid 19th century and was made by James Parkes & Son of 5 St. Mary's Row, Birmingham, indicated by their custom trademark logo of an eye with brow which could suggest a masonic connection.
In very good condition all round, the distinctive black & white dial has 32 cardinal and intercardinal points with a fleur de lis denoting North, housed under a clean glass crystal.
Housed in dent free brass case with original lid, it's in good working order and measures 55mm diameter and 22mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1977    
Elegant Victorian Brass cased explorer compass circa 1840

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an elegant early Victorian brass cased pocket compass dating to around 1840.
Although unsigned this compass is clearly a quality piece with a floating card dial which is surprisingly clean for an item well over 160 years old.
The distinctive black and white dial has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with a fluer de lis indicating north, under a clean crystal.
Housed in dent free brass case with original domed lid, it's in full working order and measures 45mm diameter and 15mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1962    
WW1 era plane table trough compass with folding sight vanes

Click Image to View Gallery

This black lacquered brass trough compass although unsigned was probably made for the British Military during WW1 and used by surveyors and artillery crew to accurately establish magnetic north.
Not used as a traditional compass and also known as a plane table compass, it was used to establish the direction of magnetic North when aligning a plane table or theodolite.
The compass needle consists of a long narrow magnetised bar of steel, pointed at both ends, with the usual agate bearing at its centre and unusually this example has a pair of folding sight vanes.
It also has a manual transit lock and is housed in a leather covered case with an interior catch that clicks shut.
Measuring 170mm x 33mm x 20mm, it weighs 450 grams in its case and is in good working order as well as excellent cosmetic condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1964    
19th century Singer’s Patent gimbal mounted compass in mahogany case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an unusual arrangement of a brass bowl gimbal compass with a Singers Patent black & white dial, mounted in a purpose made rectangular mahogany case with dove tail joints.
The distinctive floating card dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and has the words ‘SINGER’S PATENT’ printed under the south point.
The gimbal ring is mounted on a removable flat panel and the case has a sliding lid which has a small piece missing on one corner.
It dates to the third quarter of the 19th century and the compass is in good working order easily finding North.
A quirky but decorative item, the compass bowl is just 70mm in diameter, and the case measures 165mm long by 110mm wide and 55mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1948    
WW1 Verner's Pattern MK VIII prismatic marching compass by F. Darton & Co.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 Verner's pattern MK VIII prismatic marching compass dated 1917 on the leather case.
It was made by F. Darton & Co, but the engraving is very faint so the serial number can't really be read, although it is stamped with the British Army War department arrow.
In very good condition all round, with a jewelled bearing Mother of Pearl dial, the brass case retains virtually all its non reflective black finish, and there is a transit lock activated by lid closure.
It still has its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, which is so often missing on these compasses, and comes with a leather case which is also in good condition.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1930    
Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass circa 1820

Click Image to View Gallery

An impressive Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 80mm square with an attractive paper dial of a particularly early design, it dates to the first quarter of the 19th century circa 1820.
Complimented by the small hand made hinges & fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into degrees showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, & despite some minor age foxing is in relatively clean condition for a compass which is close to 200 years old.
Although the shapely steel needle has some oxidisation which is not surprising for a compass of this age, the engraved N & S is still just visible and sits under the original glass crystal which is free of any damage.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it's in full working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1932    
Antique 19th century brass cased pocket compass by Henry Hughes & Son.

Click Image to View Gallery

This elegant brass cased explorer’s style compass with a separate push fit lid dates to the second half of the 19th century and is signed 'H.Hughes 59 Fenchurch St, London' in the centre of the dial.
Made by Henry Hughes & Son around 1880, the stylish blued steel directional needle is engraved N & S in gold lettering & pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
Although the lacquered brass case does have some minor lacquer loss on the lid, it is free of any dents or deformities.
This is an antique compass of high quality in very good condition and in full working order.
The dimensions are 70mm diameter and 17mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1928    
Francis Barker WW2 British Army Officers pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW2 full hunter cased British Army Officers pocket compass, engraved 'MK VI 1940, F Barker &Son (1932) Ltd, London, B 5961' on the lid and also has the War department military arrow, which shows it was issued to the field.
Made by Francis Barker, the nickel plated hunter case is in very good condition, with a bevelled glass crystal covering the jewelled floating dial.
Measuring 45mm in diameter, its in good condition, and in full working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1921    
WW1 Verkners Pattern MK VII prismatic marching compass by Cruchon & Emons, London.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 Verner's pattern MK VII prismatic marching compass dated 1916 with leather case and carry strap.
Engraved Cruchon & Emons, London, it's also stamped with the British Army War department arrow on the underside of the compass body.
In very good condition all round, with a Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, it has a gemstone bearing for reduced friction and there is a transit lock activated by lid closure.
The brass case is dent free and still has its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, which is so often missing on these compasses.
It comes with a leather case which is also in very good condition with all stitching intact and inscribed J.M Haigh and L/Cpl. Heyes, who presumably were previous owners.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1917    
Early 20th century RGS pattern compass with leather case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a nice example of an early 20th century pocket compass marked 'REG.NO. 416645' on the dial, the design patented by Francis Barker & Son.
The dial design is sometimes referred to as the R.G.S. (Royal Geographical Society) pattern which was in use in the late 19th century, before the patent was applied for by Francis Barker in 1903.
The aluminium dial is clean, unblemished & pivots on a gemstone bearing under a chip free glass crystal.
The hunter case is in good condition with no dings or dents, and still retains virtually all its non reflective finish.
Measuring 45mm in diameter and 15mm deep, the compass is in good working order including the lid activated transit lock, and comes in a brown leather case which is also in very good condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1862    
WW2 MK.IX Prismatic compass by the Canadian Kodak Company dated 1943

Click Image to View Gallery

This is quite a rare example of a leather cased MK IX prismatic marching compass, engraved on the reverse: 'CKC/C, 5852C MK.IX, 1943'.
Although Francis Barker had the patent rights for many military compasses including this model, and used a large proportion of their production for supply to other instrument makers, the absence of the 'B' prefix on the serial number shows it was actually made under licence by the Canadian Kodak Company for the Canadian military during WW2.
In full working order, the aluminium dial pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clean chip free crystal.
In very good cosmetic condition, it also has an automatic transit lock activated by lid closure, and comes with a 1928 dated leather case which is also in very good condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1886    

Mid 19th century mahogany cased pocket compass circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a very elegant mid 19th century pocket compass circa 1860, set in a hinged mahogany block with chamferred sides on the lid which is fastened by two side brass clasps. It has a shapely blued-steel needle engraved N & S for clarity over a traditional paper dial incorporating eight cardinal points, with an elaborate fleur de lis denoting North.
This is one of the larger examples measuring 115mm square and is in very good condition with a clean crystal and dial.
Although unsigned, as many 19th century wood block compasses are, the concealed hinges were a feature almost exclusively used by Francis Barker & Son, and the quality is certainly in keeping with that makers reputation.
In full working order, including the transit lock this is an impressive Victorian compass, with a particularly attractive compass rose.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1828    
Early 19th Century Victorian brass compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A distinctive early Victorian brass cased pocket compass dating to around 1850.
Although unsigned this compass is clearly a quality piece with an English cross bar needle pivoting on a gemstone bearing over a clean paper dial with no tears or lifting and is protected by a clean crystal (please note there is a tiny edge chip on the glass around the transit lock stem, but very hard to see).
The lacquered brass case is free from any dents and has its original push on lid which activates the transit lock when closed.
In full working order, it measures 38mm diameter and 14mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1880    

Antique 19th century Francis Barker brass cased compass circa 1880

Click Image to View Gallery

A very elegant brass cased explorer’s style compass with a separate push fit lid made by Francis Barker & Son around 1880, as evidenced by the small FBS logo within the Trademark London triangle, and printed on the card dial just below the North cardinal point.
The stylish blued steel directional needle is engraved N & S in gold lettering & pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points under a clean undamaged crystal.
Although the lacquered brass case does have lacquer loss in some areas as can be seen in the photos, it is free of any dents or deformities.
This is an antique compass of high quality, by the most renowned of all compass makers, and in full working order, including a lid activated transit lock.
The dimensions are 70mm diameter and 16mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1861    
Francis Barker & Son MK II Trough compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This brass trough compass was made by Francis Barker & Son for use by the British Military during the WW2 era, and is engraved 'F.B&S 1932 LTD, M.K. II,' with a military crowfoot arrow on the side.
Not used as a traditional compass and known also as a plane table compass, it was used by surveyors to establish the direction of magnetic North when aligning a plane table or theodolite.
The needle of the compass consists of a long narrow magnetised bar of steel, pointed at both ends, with the usual gemstone bearing at its centre for reduced friction. In good condition and housed in a bakelite case with a sliding lid that activates a transit lock for when the instrument is not in use.
Measuring 165mm x 35mm x 25mm, it weighs just over 200 grams and is in good working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1874    

19th century Mariners gimbal mounted compass marked Singers Patent

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a quite unique example of a late 19th century mariners compass mounted on gimbals in a mahogany case with decorative brass corner brackets, all in very good condition.
Usually these styles of compasses are quite large, but this particular example, is only 3" (75mm) square & 1.5" (40mm) in height, with the compass bowl being just 45mm in diameter, making it a very compact and consequently much rarer instrument.
The compass floating card dial is the distinctive Singers Patent black & white design pivoting on a gemstone bearing, and is set within a lacqured brass bowl which is free of any knocks or dents, and retains nearly all its original finish.
An unusually small, yet robust little compass weighing only 170 grams, it's in full working order with a clean dial and glass crystal.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1875    

19th century mahogany cased surveyors compass by Edward Bryan, Manchester.

Click Image to View Gallery

This impressive English surveyors compass was made sometime in the first half of the 19th century by Edward Bryan in Manchester.
Fitted in a velvet lined mahogany case with folding sight vanes, it's signed on the dial 'EDWARD BRYAN, 24 CROSS STREET MANCHESTER'.
The English cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above the silvered dial under a clean, chip free glass crystal, and also has a lid axctivated transit lock.
This is a substantial compass example measuring 180mm x 155mm x 40mm, with a dial diameter of 120mm, and weighs just under 1kg.
The cosmetic condition is really very good as can be seen from the photos, the mahogany case in particular having a warm patination that only comes with the passage of time.
Not only is this an antique precision compass in full working order, but now 150 years later it would grace any executive desk as a unique decorative item.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1842    
Late 19th century early verners style marching compass with leather case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an unsigned brass marching compass dating to the end of the 19th century period with a dial design used by Ross.
Very similar to the Verners MK III patterns it's a non prismatic model, & the white compass card is is surrounded by a silvered bearing ring, with a brass manual stop & finger brake on one side.
In good working order, it measures 2" in diameter & is in good used condition, with a heavy bevelled crystal that emphasises the quality of this piece.
Comes with a leather case from the same period.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1856    
Francis Barker & Son educational desk top compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the first half of the 20th century, this large Oak cased compass measuring 8.5" square was originally made for educational purposes but today makes an impressive desk ornament.
Made by Francis Barker & Son in the 1930's for the London County Council education department, it also has the Trade Mark London logo arranged in a triangle above the North fleur de lis, within which are the superimposed F B & S letters.
The attractive paper dial is in exceptional condition with no staining as is often found in other compasses of the period, and is set under a jewelled steel needle measuring 6.5" in length, the glass crystal is also original and in excellent condition.
Not only a decorative item, but also a functional compass in working order including the transit lock, this is a substantial instrument weighing just over 1kg.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1851    
Francis Barker WW2 MK IX prismatic marching compass with case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a good example of a leather cased MK IX prismatic marching compass, with a relatively early serial number and is engraved on the reverse: 'MK. IX, No 599 9 F.BARKER & SON. (1932) Ltd, LONDON, 1936' (also has the British Army War office military arrow).
Dating to the WW2 period, this compass was not only manufactured by Francis Barker & Son but actually carries their own branding. (As Barker had the patent rights for most of the military compasses, the bulk of their production was made for supply to many other instrument makers on a wholesale basis)
In full working order, it also has the traditional Mother of Pearl dial for low light reading, and is in very good condition, retaining virtually all of its original black finish.
A dry dial compass with a gemstone pivot bearing, it has an automatic transit lock activated by lid closure, and protected by its original tan leather case which is also in very good condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1836    
Pre WW2 MK VII Hunter cased pocket compass with later RAF Germany insignia badge

Click Image to View Gallery

A good example of a full hunter cased pocket watch style compass, with a gemstone pivot floating dial, and set in a nickel plated case which has the insignia badge of the Royal Air Force Germany (Keepers of The Peace) attached to the lid.
The compass dates to the pre WW2 period, but RAF Germany was formed in 1959 so the insignia was added after this time.
Although not signed by any maker, it was probably made by Francis Barker and is the MK VII version which was the last model of the hunter cased pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1 for British Army Officers.
In very good condition, the case is good with a clean undamaged crystal, all in fine working order. Measures 45mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1784    
19th century brass cased pocket compass by Francis Barker circa 1890

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine example of a Francis Barker & Son 19th century hunter cased pocket compass, having a black & white Singers patent style card dial with the FBS trademark logo printed just below the North Star point.
The intertwined FBS letters of the logo show the 'S' to be reversed in recognition of the death of Francis Barker in 1875, so made after that date & likely to be circa 1890.
Of brass construction, with a clean glass crystal having a red lubber line painted on the underside, it's in very good condition all round, and the case is free from any dents retaining virtually all its black coating.
In full working order with a transit lock activated by lid closure, this is one of the more unusual pocket compasses by a much sought after maker, measures 60mm diameter and 20mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1825    
WW1 Verners MK VII compass by Cruchon & Emons, dated 1916

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 Verners pattern MKVII prismatic marching compass with leather case.
In excellent cosmetic condition, it's engraved 'Cruchon & Emons London No 1916' on the base and also has the War department military arrow.
The leather case is also embossed with the military arrow so is likely to be the original case, which is also in good condition & all stitching intact.
Still retaining virtually all of its black finish on the lid, the Mother of Pearl dial and glass covers are in very good condition.
The serial number is 17678 which is engraved inside the lid.
In full working order, a nice complete example.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1820    
Mid 19th century pocket compass circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

An attractive early Victorian pocket compass set in a fishskin covered case, measuring 52mm in diameter, and dating to circa 1860.
The elegant blued steel needle is impressed 'N' & 'S' in gold letters for clarity, and sits over a traditional paper compass dial which is still very legible, incorporating 16 cardinal & intercardinal points with a fleur de lys for North.
The compass glass crystal is protected by a silk lining on the lid, which is fastened by an ornate brass clasp.
In working order, the cosmetic condition of both compass & outer case is good, the case in particular having a sound hinge and clasp.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1800    
Edwardian mahogany cased pocket compass with folding gnomon

Click Image to View Gallery

This Edwardian pocket compass with the unusual feature of a folding gnomon is set in a mahogany case, with an elegant scroll shaped brass fastener.
The clean paper dial has a 360 degree graduated scale for compass readings, with 8 main cardinal points.
In very good cosmetic condition as can be seen by the photos, it measures 63mm square & 18mm deep.
A nice clean compass dating to the early 1900's, it's a visually impressive piece and fully functional with a lid activated transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
 
SOLD
SC1805    
Victorian pocket compass signed Callaghan London, circa 1860's

Click Image to View Gallery

An attractive 19th century brass cased pocket compass that unusually has what appears to be a silver North cardinal point on the dial.
Signed 'CALLAGHAN LONDON'around the centre point on the floating card dial which pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clean glass crystal, it dates to the second half of the 19th cenury and was probably made by William Callaghan who worked at various addresses in London from 1860.
A small compass measuring just under 37mm in overall diameter, it's in good working order and also has a a built in transit lock which is activated when the brass lid is in place.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1783    
English made 19th century pocket sextant signed G A Boettger Capetown

Click Image to View Gallery

A superb example of a WW1 British Army Officers MK V pocket watch compass by L Kamm, in a full hunter nickel case which is in excellent dent free condition. The lid is engraved 'L Kamm & Co, London, V, 49194, 1915', along with the military arrow showing it to have been issued into service.
This compass is in very good cosmetic condition as can be seen from the photos, with a thick bevelled glass crystal covering the distinctive Singers patent style black & white floating dial, which is mounted on a jewelled brass bearing for reduced friction on the pivot point.
Unlike the majority of MK V compasses, the inner compass body is fixed to the nickel case by means of two small screws on the underside, which is a further design refinement, unique to only a very few makers including Kamm.
A fine working example from one of the rarer makers who did not use the more common Dennison case.
In full working order, with a strong hinge, it measures 45mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1792    
Vintage pocket compass with clinometer function in hunter case

Click Image to View Gallery

An unusual Hunter cased combined pocket compass & clinometer with integral folding sight vanes.
No makers marks and of nickel plated brass construction, it's generally in very good condition & probably dates to the early part of the 20th century.
The compass has a needle with a red gemstone pivot, set over an aluminium 2 tier dial, the upper 360 degree scale being for compass readings, and the lower 180 degree scale is for the clinometer function.
All in good working order with a manual transit lock, it's a substantial instrument measuring 60mm diameter and 25mm in depth.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1718    
Francis Barker & Son hunter cased pocket compass circa 1910

Click Image to View Gallery

A stylish example of an Edwardian hunter cased pocket compass with an English cross bar needle on a jewelled pivot, and signed 'F.BARKER & SON MAKERS LONDON' on the frosted aluminium dial.
Dating to around 1910, its in very good clean condition with a clear undamaged crystal on which the main cardinal points are painted in red on the underside.
The brass case is also in good condition with a warm patination, and is dent free.
Measuring 50mm in diameter not including the bow, this is a sturdy yet attractive compass in full working order including the transit lock which is activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1713    
Early Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This mid 19th century pocket compass is set in a hinged mahogany block and has a shapely blued-steel needle engraved N & S for clarity, with a paper dial divided into degrees.
Although unsigned, as many 19th century wood block compasses are, the concealed hinges were a feature almost exclusively used by Francis Barker, and the quality is certainly in keeping with that makers reputation.
Fastened with an attractive 7 shaped brass clasp, this is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in fine order, and a working transit lock activated by lid closure.
Measuring 65mm square, it is in full working order, and very good cosmetic condition, a classic Victorian compass with a traditional dial design.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1762    
Victorian explorers pocket compass with lid circa 1860

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an elegant 19th century brass cased explorers or travellers compass with a traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points, under a clean crystal.
The blued steel needle has N & S lettering for clarity, and the brass case is in very good condition, with no dents.
Dating to around 1860 it's unsigned but is clearly an antique compass of some quality, with a clean paper dial except for one small age stain around the SE point, and has its original push fit brass lid.

In full working order, the dimensions are 45mm diameter and 11mm deep.


Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1758    
Early 20th century Oak cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

An Edwardian pocket compass set in what appears to be an oak case, with two elegant scroll shaped brass fasteners.
The clean paper dial has a 360 degree graduated scale for compass readings, with 8 main cardinal points, and probably made in England for export as the dial pattern is French, note the 'O' (Ouest) for West.
This compass is in very good condition as can be seen by the photos, and measures 70mm square & 20mm deep.
A nice clean compass, dating to the first quarter of the 20th century, and fully functional with a lid activated transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1747    
Rare 1950's Glauser MK 4 prismatic compass with original service kit & instructions.

Click Image to View Gallery

Not only is this Glauser MK 4 a rare compass, but it's also in excellent condition and comes complete with its leather case & most of the original service kit.
The kit comprises of a 1/2 oz bottle of liquid (empty), disc spanner, sighting wire, chamois leather & instruction sheet, the spare interchangeable pivot being the only item missing.
Designed in the 1950's as a special project, it featured the facility to trap any bubbles inside a double casing that could be easily topped up with liquid, and an easily replaced pivot, which also made it possible for it to be serviced by the owner instead of having to send it back to the manufacturer.
It comes with mother of pearl dial divided into degreees with an accuracy of +/- 1/2 degree, and is in exceptional cosmetic condition, even the luminous points are still active.
Although designed by J M Glauser, it appears from the instruction sheet that Henry Browne & Son were the sole manufacturers, which suggests that this may have been after 1956 when Jean Maurice Glauser retired.
A precision compass in full working order with no bubbles in the alcohol liquid, and of brass construction, it has a substantial feel to it weighing 11oz without its case.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1738    
1918 British Army Officers hunter cased pocket compass by W F Holmes Birmingham

Click Image to View Gallery

An excellent condition WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved W. F. Holmes, Birmingham VI 44198, 1918, with the military arrow denoting War department issue, also stamped on the lid.
The polished full hunter case is free of any dents and retains all its original nickel plating, with a bevelled glass crystal covering an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original dial markings intact.
In full working order, with a strong hinge, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem, a fine example of these iconic compasses.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1749    
Victorian brass cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

Dating to the first half of the 19th century (circa 1850), this brass cased pocket compass measures 75mm in diameter and stands 35mm high.
Although there is no lid, it does have the advantage of a removable crystal within a brass bezel, which means it can be easily kept clean.
The attractive card dial is in good cosmetic condition and the brass case is also free from any dents or gouges with wear consistent with its age.
Unsigned, but in full working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1727    
19th century mariners compass gimbal mounted in Oak case

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a fine example of an early 19th century mariners compass mounted on gimbals in an oak case with a later replacement sliding lid.
In good condition, it measures 5" (130mm) square & 4" (100mm) in height, with the compass bowl being 80mm in diameter, making it a smaller than usual and therefore not so common.
The compass floating card dial pivots on a gemstone bearing, and is set within a brass bowl which is free of any knocks or dents and retains all its original lacquer.
The oak case has early dovetail joints and is generally in sound condition although the base has a large ink stain, probably happened in rough seas! There is also a faded label on the front where the words Mariners Compass can just be made out.
Dating to circa 1840, this is a robust little compass weighing just over 600 grams and is in full working order with a clean dial and glass crystal.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1694    
Early Victorian brass cased pocket compass with lid, circa 1840.

Click Image to View Gallery

A small 19th century brass cased pocket compass circa 1840, with a distinctive floating dial pivoting on a gemstone bearing.
Although there is no makers name, the card dial is in very good legible condition and is housed under a clean glass crystal.
The brass case is also in good condition, free of any dents, and has its original push on protective brass lid.
In full working order, a good example of an early Victorian compass which measures 40mm diameter and 18mm deep with a transit lock activated by a

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1656    
Rare Barker's Patent no 29677, 1910 prismatic marching compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a relatively rare prismatic marching compass engraved 'BARKERS PATENT, PAT No: 29677, 1910' and was produced as an alternative to the more popular Verner's pattern models which were the mainstay of the British Army during WW1.
Whilst there are no real shortages of the WW1 Verner’s pattern compasses, numbers of the Barker's patent models are very much less.
The clean central dial is aluminium with an outer 360 degree scale on a transparent rim, and as can be seen from the photos the compass body is in good condition with minimal loss of its black finish on the lid, and a clean undamaged glass crystal. The only blemish is that it no longer has the rubber anti slip ring on the base underside, but this doesn't affect the function as it's in full working order.
A rare compass from the WW1 era, it comes with its original leather carrying case which although lightly scuffed in places is very sound with all its stitching intact.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1690    
19th century pocket compass by Aubrey Franks

Click Image to View Gallery

An attractive late Victorian pocket compass set in a leather covered outer case measuring 40mm in diameter, it has a label inside the lid which reads 'A. Franks, Optician, Manchester, Liverpool & Hull'.
This is Aubrey Franks who belonged to the famous Franks family founded in the late 18th century by Isaac Franks. The firm operated in Manchester from 1798 and continued as a family business throughout the 19th & 20th centuries with Aubrey taking it over in 1878.
The firm operated under the Franks name until 1950, when it was finally acquired by Dollond & Aitchison.
The elegant blued steel needle is impressed 'N' & 'S' in gold lettering & sits over a clean paper compass dial incorporating 16 cardinal & intercardinal points with a fleur de lys for North.
The compass glass crystal is protected by a blue velvet lining on the case lid, which is fastened by an ornate brass clasp.
In good working order, the cosmetic condition of both compass & outer case is good, although the case is a little on the delicate side.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1675    
A WW1 Verners pattern MK VII prismatic marching compass by J H Steward

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a J H Steward Verners Pattern MK VII prismatic marching compass signed J. H. STEWARD LONDON on the lid.
The MK VII was introduced in to the British Army just before WW1, and although this example doersn't have a serial number it does have the military arrow which suggests it was issued very early in or prior to WW1.
Still retaining virtually all of its black finish on the lid, the Mother of Pearl dial and glass covers are in very good condition, and the base still has its original rubber anti slip ring.
In full working order with a manual transit lock, a nice complete example from WW1 which comes with a good condition Sam Browne leather case for attaching to a belt.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1698    
WW1 Clement Clarke MK VI military pocket compass dated 1918

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine example of a 1918 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass by Clement Clarke, a British optician established in 1917, so made relatively few of these compasses during WW1. Housed in a full hunter case which is in excellent dent free condition, it retains all its nickel plating both inside and out, and is engraved 'CLEMENT CLARKE LTD, LONDON, VI , 35783 1918' on the lid along with the military arrow, although the markings are quite worn but still readable.
Despite this the compass is in excellent cosmetic condition as can be seen from the photos, and the thick bevelled glass crystal covers the clean aluminium dial, mounted on a jewelled brass bearing for reduced friction on the pivot point.
In full working order, with a strong hinge, it measures 45mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1704    
Victorian brass cased pocket compass by Francis Barker & Son

Click Image to View Gallery

A quality brass cased Victorian compass with a separate brass lid, by Francis Barker & Son London. The blued steel needle with gold letters pivots above an attractive sunburst dial and is covered by a clean undamaged crystal.
The paper dial has the F Barker and Son logo, within the trademark London triangle just under the North cardinal point and dates to the latter part of the 19th century.
A small example measuring just 30mm in diameter, it's a nice antique compass in very good condition with no dents and a snug fitting lid, in full working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1670    
WW1 Plane table or trough compass by Francis Barker, dated 1916.

Click Image to View Gallery

This black lacquered brass trough compass, was made by Francis Barker & Son for use by the British Military during WW1, and is engraved 'F.BARKER & SON, LONDON, II, No. 9571, 1916' on the side.
Not used as a traditional compass and known also as a plane table compass, it was used by surveyors to establish the direction of magnetic North when aligning a plane table or theodolite. The needle of the compass consists of a long narrow magnetised bar of steel, pointed at both ends, with the usual agate bearing at its centre. It is mounted in a narrow rectangular box carrying a pivot at its centre, and is housed in a mahogany case with a sliding lid that activates a transit lock for when the instrument is not in use.
Measuring 168mm x 40mm x 28mm in its wooden case, it weighs just over 0.3kgs and is in good working order as well as excellent cosmetic condition.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1651    
WW1 Terrasse MK VI military pocket compass dated 1918

Click Image to View Gallery

One of the rarer examples of a WW1 British Army Officers pocket watch compass, engraved Terrasse. W. Co. VI 87567, 1918, along with the military arrow.
The nickel plated case is in good condition, although the plating is a little rubbed in places on the outside surfaces and more so on the underside as can be seen in the larger photos, but is completely intact inside the lid.
It has a bevelled glass crystal covering the attractive jewelled pivot floating aluminium dial which is in very good condition, retaining all its original markings.
In full working order, with strong hinge. A fine working example from one of the lesser known makers of this style of compass. Measures 45mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1667    
Late19th century mahogany cased compass, circa 1880.

Click Image to View Gallery

Although this mahogany cased pocket compass is named and dated June 1902 by a previous owner, it was made a little earlier in the late Victorian period, sometime during the 1880's.
The distinctive paper dial has 16 cardinal points and an outer scale calibrated in 2 degree increments in four 90 degree quadrants.
In excellent cosmetic condition, direction is indicated by an English cross bar needle which pivots on a jewelled bearing under a clean undamaged crystal.
Measuring 67mm square, the lid is skilfully hand engraved 'Thomas R Midgley, June 1902' and is fastened with two '7' shaped brass clasps.
This is a stylish antique compass in full working order, including the original transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1613    
This is a fine example of a 1917 British Army Officers full hunter cased pocket compass from WW1. 
It's engraved 'F Barker & Son London, 1917, VI, 19866' on the underside of the case, and the lid has the numbers 128693M on the inside.
The nickel plated hunter case is in very good dent free condition with all its plating intact, and it has a bevelled glass crystal covering the floating dial which pivots on a red gemstone bearing for reduced friction.
A fine military compass by Francis Barker, who was probably the most prolific compass maker in history, it's in very good condition, and in full working order, including the automatic transit lock. It measures 45mm diameter.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a fine example of a 1917 British Army Officers full hunter cased pocket compass from WW1.
It's engraved 'F Barker & Son London, 1917, VI, 19866' on the underside of the case, and the lid has the numbers 128693M on the inside.
The nickel plated hunter case is in very good dent free condition with all its plating intact, and it has a bevelled glass crystal covering the floating dial which pivots on a red gemstone bearing for reduced friction.
A fine military compass by Francis Barker, who was probably the most prolific compass maker in history, it's in very good condition, and in full working order. It measures 45mm diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1653    
Lennie pocket compass with Singers Patent style dial

Click Image to View Gallery

This small brass pocket compass engraved 'LENNIE EDINBURGH' inside the lid dates to the latter part of the 19th century, circa 1880's.
Although measuring only 35mm diameter, this is quite a striking little compass with a black & white Singers patent style card dial pivoting on a gemstone bearing. The dial also has the word ENGLAND on it which suggests that Lennie didn't manufacture the compass but bought it on a wholesale basis, probably from Francis Barker, and rebranded it.
It has a gunmetal finish both inside & outside the hunter case which is pretty much complete, although there is some minor loss inside the lid.
A compact compass, of good quality which is in full working order.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1646    
J H Steward Vernercompass patent model circa 1890

Click Image to View Gallery

Whilst there are no real shortages of the WW1 Verner’s Pattern prismatic compasses, this particular non prismatic example was made by J H Steward, probably around the 1890’s before the Verners pattern model numbers were introduced in the early 20th century, as it is engraved ‘No 2363 VERNER COMPASS PATENT, J H STEWARD, 406 STRAND LONDON’

As can be seen from the photos it is in good condition with minimal loss of its black finish on the lid, and a clean undamaged glass crystal under which the card dial retains all its markings.

A rare compass in full working order, there is also a manual transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1612    
Early 20th century Sherwood London pocket compass with Verners style dial.

Click Image to View Gallery

A full hunter cased pocket compass with a Verners style aluminium dial which pivots on a red gemstone bearing, under a clean glass crystal.
The case is of blackened brass construction and is in almost mint condition with virtually no paint loss or any dents.
Signed 'Sherwood London' on the clean dial, it's a non prismatic model dating to the post WW1 period and is in full working order.
In excellent all round condition, it measures 55mm diameter and 18mm depth, and incorporates a transit lock activated on lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1593    
S Mordan WW1 compass from 7th Battalion Sherwood Foresters Regiment

Click Image to View Gallery

This WW1 Verner's pattern MKVIII prismatic marching compass is made by Sampson Mordan, and is engraved 'S. Mordan & Co, 102376, 1918', it's also stamped with the British Army War department arrow on the underside of the compass body.
It has the original owners details hand scribed on the compass body, and reads 'J GARNER LT 7 no SHER FOR'. This refers to a Lieutenant J Garner of the 7th (Robin Hood) Battalion Sherwood Foresters, who served from 1914 - 1920 and was awarded the British war medal & Victory medal.
In very good condition all round, with a jewelled bearing Mother of Pearl dial, the brass case has a nice age patination, and there is a transit lock activated by lid closure.
It still has its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, so often missing on these compasses, and comes with its original leather case also dated 1918, which is also in very good condition with all stitching intact.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1631    
Elliott Bros 19th century prismatic compass, used in Zulu war of 1879.

Click Image to View Gallery

This black lacquered brass, green card prismatic compass was made by Elliott Bros and is printed 'ELLIOTT BROS, STRAND, LONDON' on the dial around the pivot.
The founder William Elliott formed a partnership with his sons Frederick & Charles in 1850, and the firm became known as Elliott & Sons. However, the name was changed to Elliott Bros from 1854 after William retired in 1853.
It measures 70mm diameter, and has a folding front sight which also locks the compass card for transit, and a prism that locks down by means of a brass strap. The compass body also has the name of the original owner 'F. J. DeLisle.' engraved in a flowing script, along with his initials F.J.D. impressed on the original leather case.
My research indicates that this was Frederick J DeLisle, a Lieutenant in the 8th Battery Brigade in South Africa during the Zulu wars of 1879 and is recorded in the UK Military award Rolls as receiving a campaign medal for actively engaging against the Zulus.
In good working order this is a relatively rare example in very good condition, from one of the more renowned makers of the 19th century, and with an interesting military provenance.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1624    
19th century 3 draw telescope signed Lennie Edinburgh

Click Image to View Gallery

A very elegant brass cased explorer’s style compass with a separate push fit lid probably made around 1880 by Francis Barker & Son on a wholesale basis, so unsigned.
The stylish English cross bar needle pivots on a jewelled bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points, under a clean undamaged crystal.
Housed in a lacqured brass case with minor some lacquer loss as can be seen in the photos, it is free of any dents and has some numbers which appear to read 18/6 scratched on the underside, which may have been some kind of index number.
This is a very clean antique compass of high quality, with its original glass crystal which is free of any chips or damage.
In full working order, including a transit lock activated when lid is in place, the dimensions are 60mm diameter and 18mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1573    
Enbeeco liquid filled prismatic compass with degrees dial.

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a 1970's prismatic liquid filled prismatic compass in superb cosmetic condition and engraved 'Enbeeco, Made in England' on the reverse, which is a brand name of Newbold & Bulford Co Ltd.
It has a degrees dial, and although is similar in design to the Francis Barker M88, the maker is not so well known but the compass is still a quality precision instrument which compares well with the M88, and is a good alternative for a lower budget.
The body is constructed from an aluminium alloy which is slightly heavier than the M88 at 133 grams, and comes in its original leather case.
As can be seen from the photos the condition is exceptional showing very little signs of use, and is in full working order with the liquid damping effect giving precise readings very quickly.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1582    
Francis Barker WW2 British Army Officers pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW2 full hunter cased British Army Officers pocket compass, engraved 'MK VI 1940, F Barker &Son (1932) Ltd, London, B 5237' on the lid and also has the War department military arrow, which shows it was issued to the field.
Made by Francis Barker, the nickel plated hunter case is in very good condition, with a bevelled glass crystal covering the jewelled floating dial.
As can be seen from the photos, its in really good condition, and in full working order, with a strong hinge.
It measures 45mm diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1598    
Antique pocket compass by Francis Barker & Son

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of a Hunter cased pocket compass by Francis Barker, which dates to the early part of the 20th century, and quite similar in style to the WW1 British Army Officers compasses.
Fitted with an English cross bar needle that pivots on an agate gemstone, above an attractive frosted aluminium dial on which is printed 'F Barker & Son, Makers London '.
A super compass measuring 45mm in diameter, it's in good working order and the clean glass crystal is chip free.
A very collectable compass by probably the most prolific of all of compass makers.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1583    
Rare 19th century pocket compass by John Benjamin Dancer, Manchester.

Click Image to View Gallery

A stunning early Victorian gilded brass pocket compass set in a red silk & velvet lined leather case, this is a particularly rare example made by the celebrated Manchester optician John Benjamin Dancer, son of Josiah dancer whose business he inherited in 1835.
As can be seen from the photos it's in exceptional condition, and the English cross bar needle pivots on a red gemstone bearing for reduced friction, above a white enamel dial with 16 cardinal & inter cardinal points, protected by a slightly domed glass crystal.
Dating to circa 1845, it comes fitted in a Moroccan leather case which is in good sound condition and retains its ornate brass fastening clasp.
Measuring 35mm in diameter not including the bow, this elegant compass is in working order including the transit lock, activated by a lever behind the compass stem and finds North easily, settling quickly.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1557    
F Darton1916 WW1 Army Officers

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a rare MK V British Army Officers pocket compass engraved 'F. Darton & Co. London,V, no 79531 A, 1916.'
Housed in a bright nickel plated full hunter case with its distinctive Singers style dial, it’s in full working order the crystal is free from any chips. The lid flips open by depressing the push button on the crown, and snaps shut with a positive click as it should.
It measures 45mm diameter not including crown and ring, the floating card dial finds North each time, and pivots on a jewel for reduced friction.
Unlike the majority of MK V compasses, the inner compass body is fixed to the nickel case by means of two small screws on the underside, which is a further design refinement, unique to only a very few makers including F Darton.
The MK V was discontinued during 1917, so this is likely to be one of the last models made by one of the rarer makers of this style of compass.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1618    
WW1 Verner's Pattern MK VIII prismatic marching compass by E R Watts & Son

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a WW1 Verner's pattern MKVIII prismatic marching compass dated 1917.
Engraved E. R. Watts & Son, London with serial no 73633, it's also stamped with the British Army War department arrow on the underside of the compass body.
In very good condition all round, with a jewelled bearing Mother of Pearl dial, the brass case has a nice age patination, and there is a transit lock activated by lid closure.
It still has its anti slip rubber ring on the underside, which is so often missing on these compasses, and comes with a leather case which is also in very good condition with all stitching intact.
In good working order, a genuine piece of Britain's WW1 history.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1558    
WW1 British Army marching compass by J Wardale

Click Image to View Gallery

A nice example of a WW1 military marching compass by J Wardale London, dated 1918 and numbered 6269, the majority of these compasses were made out of wood toward the end of WW1 when brass was becoming very scarce, due to its extensive use in munitions.
Set in a mahogany block measuring 3" square, with a Verner's design dial card under a rotating glass crystal, it's in good original condition with very little cosmetic wear and tear.
In good working order throughout, the base is engraved 'J WARDALE & Co, LONDON, 1918 no 6269' and there is a small military arrow engraved in one corner, showing it to have been issued in to service.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1542    
Early 19th century Georgian brass cased pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an impressive 19th century brass cased pocket compass circa 1830, with a separate push on lid.
It has a shapely blued-steel needle engraved N & S for clarity, with a clean paper dial divided into degrees and also showing all the points of the compass.
Although unsigned, this is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in fine order, and a working transit lock activated by lid closure.

Measuring 60mm in diameter, it is in full working order, and excellent cosmetic condition, a classic Georgian compass with a traditional dial design. 

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1566    
19th century mahogany cased desk top compass

Click Image to View Gallery


This large Victorian mahogany cased desk top compass measures 7.5" (190mm) square, with a dial diameter of 6.25" (160mm)and made during the last quarter of the 19th century in London, for use as an educational aid in schools.
The Elementary Education Act of 1870 created elected school boards to build & run schools, and this compass was made for the London School Board by the maker W.W. Hooper, the attractive paper dial reads 'SCHOOL BOARD FOR LONDON. WW Hooper Chester Road, East Ham. E.'
The School boards were abolished in 1902 and replaced by Local education Authorities.
Not only a very impressive compass in good working order, but also quite a rare item which is part of social history.
In great condition, North is a fleur-de-lis and there are no fewer than 32 Cardinal & inter cardinal points plus an outer scale with four 90 degree quadrants.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1512    
Early MK V Officers pocket compass by Short & Mason dated 1910, with low serial number 2981, & card dial.

Click Image to View Gallery

The majority of MK V pocket compasses were made during the WW1 period up to 1917 when they were superceded by the MK VI version.
This particular example is quite rare as not only does it date from 1910 with a very low serial number, but it also has the earlier card dial as opposed to the more common aluminium ones found in the majority.
Made by Short & Mason and engraved on the lid 'Short & Mason Ltd, London, V, 1910, 2981', it also has the military arrow, showing that it was issued into service.
The hunter case is in very good condition with only one or two very minor dings and retains all its nickel plating both inside and out.
It has a bevelled glass crystal covering the distinctive Singers patent black & white floating dial, which is mounted on a jewelled brass bearing for reduced friction on the pivot point.
In full working order, with a strong hinge, it measures 45mm in diameter, not including the stem.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1523    
Late 19th century pocket compass with mother of pearl dial

Click Image to View Gallery

A rare pocket compass, with a classic black & white Singers patent design on a Mother of Pearl dial, housed in a gilded brass case.
Although unsigned this is a quality piece dating to the latter part of the 19th century circa 1880, and in very good condition as can be seen from the photos.
The clean dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and is set under a clean undamaged bevelled crystal.
In good working order, with a functioning transit lock activated by a push button on the stem, this is an impressive compass in very good condition, and measures 42mm diameter not including the bow.
It comes with a modern gold plated albert style chain, and will be sent in a plush gift box.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1516    
1917 WW1 British Army Officers pocket compass by Haseler Birmingham

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a British Army WW1 Officers pocket watch style compass, engraved C Haseler & Son Ltd, Birmingham VI 127112 1917, along with the War Department military arrow on the lid. The engraving is quite shallow and difficult to photograph, but is easily read by eye when held in the hand.
It has its original bevelled glass crystal which is in fine condition, and covers an attractive jewelled pivot floating dial with most of its markings intact, save for some minor paint loss on the tip of the North arrow.
The full hunter case is in very good condition, retaining all its original nickel plating with no dents, and the compass is in full working order.
Measuring 45mm diameter on the main body, it's a fine example of these charismatic WW1 compasses, which are becoming increasingly scarce.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1520    
19th century mahogany cased compass by Yeates & Son Dublin

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a very elegant mid 19th century pocket compass circa 1870, set in a hinged mahogany block 65mm square. It has a shapely blued-steel needle engraved N & S in gold lettering, pivoting over a clean paper dial divided into degrees and also showing all the points of the compass. The needle is held by a detent which comes into play when the lid is closed.
The compass dial has the makers name 'YEATES & SON, DUBLIN', who succeeded George Yeates & Son in 1865.
Fastened with an attractive 7 shaped brass clasp, this is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in clean condition.
In very good condition and in full working order, it finds North well, this is a classic Victorian compass with a traditional dial design.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1508    
Genuine Stanley Victorian brass cased pocket compass.

Click Image to View Gallery

With so many reproduction instruments bearing the name Stanley London on the internet, its a rare treat to find one of the few genuine items, and this particular compass is a fine example to admire.
Dating to the latter part of the 19th century, it's constructed from brass with an English cross bar needle which pivots above a distinctive dial, engraved 'STANLEY LONDON', and covered by the original crystal in clean undamaged condition.
It has a separate push on lid for protecting the glass crystal, which also activates a transit lock for locking the needle when in place.
A quality Victorian piece with a traditional printed paper dial denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points, it's in very good condition all round, no dents, and the paper dial is complete without any tears.
A fully working antique compass measuring 47mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1503    
Early Georgian mariners brass compass with outer case

Click Image to View Gallery

An impressive example of an early Georgian mariners pocket compass dating between 1820 & 1830.
Housed in a brass case with lid, it comes with its original sepearate velvet lined papier mache outer case, so often missing on these compasses.
Although unsigned the distinctive floating card dial is of a particularly early design and is still surprisingly clean, although there is some minor fading only visible on close inspection.
In very good condition all round including the outer case, it still has the original glass crystal and there are no dents in the brass case or lid.
In good working order, it measures 50mm diameter in its brass case, with the outer case being 60mm in diameter.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1486    
Verners pattern MK VII prismatic marching compass dated 1915

Click Image to View Gallery

A British Army WW1 Verner's Pattern MKVII prismatic marching compass with leather case and carry strap, all in very good condition.
Engraved '1915 Ed KOEHN GENEVA SWITZERLAND no 21754'on the base, and also the War department military arrow.
Still retaining virtually all of its black finish on the lid, the Mother of Pearl dial and glass covers are in very good condition, and the base still has its original rubber anti slip ring.
The leather case is embossed J B Brooks & Co Ltd 1915, and is likely to be the original case given they share the same date.
In full working order, a nice complete example from WW1.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1483    
Close up view of compass dial & hand made hinges

Click Image to View Gallery

This is an impressive Georgian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 80mm square.
The attractive paper compass dial is of a particularly early design, graduated in 90 degree quadrants and dates to the first quarter of the 19th century circa 1820.
Complimented by the small triangular hand made hinges and a plain blued steel needle, this is a stylish antique compass which is approaching 200 years old.
It's quite rare to find compasses of this age in such good condition, and it's in full working order including the original transit lock activated by lid closure.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1454    
Antique brass cased pocket compass circa 1800

Click Image to View Gallery

A fine example of a late 18th or early 19th century brass cased pocket compass circa 1800.
Although unsigned the sunburst design of the dial and blued steel needle with the triangular brass cap bearing indicates that this is an early compass.
The brass case is in very good condition with no dents and unusually has a screw on domed lid instead of the more common push on type.
In good working order with its original glass crystal and clean dial, it measures 42mm in diameter and 15mm deep including the lid.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1439    
1920's Prismatic artillery compass by E R Watts

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a large prismatic artillery compass, made by E. R. Watts & Son London, during the 1920's.
It really is an impressive instrument measuring 125mm in diameter and incorporates a number of features not found on the more standard models, including two rotating sun filters on the prism, with an adjustable folding mirror on the back sight.
A substantial instrument weighing over 800 grams, there is also a threaded boss on the underside of the base for attaching to a tripod.
A precision item made to the highest quailty standard, it's in very good cosmetic condition and comes with its original leather case, which is also in sound condition with all stitching intact
In full working order including the automatic transit lock, not only is this a very collectable compass but also still practical for use today.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1427    
Negretti & Zambra  mahogany cased pocket compass circa 1870

Click Image to View Gallery

A small but impressive mid Victorian dial card pocket compass, set in a hinged mahogany block 41mm square with an attractive fleur de lis for North, and a clean paper dial divided into four quadrants of 90degrees around its circumference.
The dial card is signed 'NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA LONDON' in a circle around the centre pivot which has a gemstone bearing for reduced friction, and is held by a transit lock activated when the lid is closed.
Fastened with an attractive 7 shaped brass clasp, both crystal and dial are also in fine order.
In full working order, a real classic with a traditional design by a well respected maker, circa 1870.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1404    
19th century explorers style  pocket compass by Francis Barker, with leather case.

Click Image to View Gallery

A very elegant brass cased explorer’s style compass with a separate push fit lid made by Francis Barker & Son around 1880, as evidenced by the small FBS logo within the Trademark London triangle, and printed on the card dial just below the North cardinal point.
The stylish English cross bar needle pivots on a jewelled bearing above a traditional dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points, under a clean undamaged crystal.
Housed in a lacqured brass case which does have some lacquer loss on its underside as can be seen in the photos, it is free of any dents or deformities.
This is an antique compass of high quality, by the most renowned of all compass makers and comes in a leather carry case from the same period.
In full working order, including a transit lock activated when lid is in place, the dimensions are 70mm diameter and 18mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1387    
Negretti & Zambra pocket compass with Singers patent style dial. circa 1880

Click Image to View Gallery

A small pocket compass, in superb condition which has a classic black &white Singers patent design on a Mother of Pearl dial, housed in a full hunter case.
Dating to circa 1880, this is a quality item made by Negretti & Zambra, and is signed 'NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON' on the dial.
The clean dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and is set under a damage free bevelled crystal, encased within its nickel plated case which is in dent free condition, and retains all its nickel plating.
In good working order, with a strong hinge, this is quite a rare compass from one of the most renowned instrument makers of the 19th century, measuring 38mm diameter not including the bow.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1393    
Victorian brass cased explorers pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

A very attractive 19th century brass cased explorers compass with a push fit lid that unusually carries a very decorative personalised inscription reading ' I B Browne from J C C , DECR 25th 1895 '.
Clearly a special Christmas gift for someone, but I suspect the compass is actually earlier than the inscribed date, as this distinctive dial design spans several decades from before the mid 19th century.
The floating card dial pivots on a pink gemstone bearing and is housed under a bevelled edge glass crystal which is clean and free from any chips
Although unsigned this is clearly a quality pocket compass in very good condition, the brass case & lid retaining virtually all of their original lacquer and measures 80mm in diameter.
Measuring 80mm in diameter, it's in good working order and also has a a built in transit lock which is activated when the brass lid is in place.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1334    
19th century floating dial card pocket compass

Click Image to View Gallery

This is a very elegant 19th century dial card pocket compass, dating to around 1875.
The distinctive black & white dial has 8 cardinal & intercardinal points, along with outer graduations in one degree increments, and is housed under a clear domed crystal.
Set in a black leather covered case with green velvet lining, and fastened with an ornate brass clasp, this is a fine antique compass from the mid Victorian period which is in very good cosmetic condition.
In good working order the compass measures 45mm diameter, and the outer case just under 55mm.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1306    
19th century travellers pocket compass with lid circa 1890

Click Image to View Gallery

A distinctive late Victorian brass cased travellers pocket compass dating to around 1890.
The silvered compass dial has 8 cardinal points and an outer scale calibrated in 1degree increments in four 90 degree quadrants.
Direction is indicated by an English cross bar needle which pivots on a jewelled bearing under a clean undamaged crystal.
The brass case is in very good polished condition free of any dents, with a brass lid for protecting the glass crystal and engaging the built in transit lock.

In full working order, the dimensions are 70mm diameter and 18mm deep.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1309    
Victorian brass cased pocket compass signed Lennie Edinburgh

Click Image to View Gallery

A stylish example of a 19th century brass cased pocket compass with an English cross bar needle on a jewelled pivot, and signed 'Lennie Opticians Edinburgh', on the lid. 
However, I believe this was the retailer who purchased the compass on a wholesale basis from one of the main compass makers of the time, which was very likely Francis Barker.
Dating to around 1890, its in good clean condition with a clear, and undamaged crystal over a frosted aluminium dial. The black finished brass case is also in good condition retaining virtually all its original finish, and is dent free.
Measuring 45mm diameter and 15mm thick, this is a sturdy yet attractive compass in full working order, including the automatic transit lock.

Price Status Code UK P&P Overseas
  SOLD SC1236    
Copyright © 2002 - 2024 Scientific Collectables.com
(no part of this website to be reproduced without permission)
Close Nav X Making a PurchaseOrder Information Terms & Conditions Contact Us Appraisals Testimonials Privacy Policy About Us Optical Telescopes Binoculars Navigation Compasses Sextants Meteorology Barometers AnemometersTechnology Sliderules Calculators Miscellaneous Sikes Hydrometers TruncheonsOther Items Sporting Fishing Reels Vintage Floats