Description

A fine 10 cm. diameter green card prismatic compass, in solid mahogany base with brass pin temporary lock and brass knurled screw permanent lock. Full 360 degree compass card, engine divided into one degree increments with 8 cardinal points and fleur-de-lys for North (at 180). Central brass pivot point. Simply marked “Made in England” , the instrument is near flawless noting a small loss of enamel on one side of the aluminium sighting vane. Operationally and optically the instrument responds perfectly and points true North (the prism magnifies 2-3 x for ease of reading the compass). The base is turned from a single block of mahogany wood and the glass is held in place by an anodised brass retaining ring. Although late (c.1900), it is a fine and functional desktop item with a pleasing combination of construction materials. No case.