{"title":"19th Century","description":"Georgian \u0026amp; Victorian compasses","products":[{"product_id":"antique-compass","title":"'Warranted London Made' Victorian Compass c.1860","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lovely example of a mid-Victorian brass box compass. This is a very rare antique pocket compass, with the highly unusual and distinctive 'Warranted London Made' inscription on the beautifully hand-drawn compass card. The card has a jewelled pivot. The brass case is in good condition and the lid fits very well. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. It has a working transit lock operated by a sliding button on the side of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition and full working order, with some wear and a few marks to the finish of the brass case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 77mm (diameter) x 30mm (depth)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":373615317,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Warranted_compass2.jpg?v=1493284824"},{"product_id":"james-parkes-early-victorian-wooden-box-compass-c-1840","title":"James Parkes Early Victorian Wooden Box Compass c.1850","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare early Victorian mahogany cased compass by the well known Birmingham scientific instrument maker, James Parkes. James Parkes was a manufacturer of telescopes who founded his company in 1839.  He was succeeded by his son and the company was renamed James Parkes \u0026amp; Son. Both companies traded from 5, St. Mary’s Row, Birmingham. Parkes's very distinctive trademark was a human left eye shown open together with an eyebrow. The company exhibited their scientific instruments, including a variety of pocket compasses, at the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. In their 1859 catalogue the company were described as 'Instrument Makers to the Board of Trade'. The company was still operating in 1908, under the ownership of Samuel Hickling Parkes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good, original condition and full working order. It finds north very well. The hand-drawn compass card is in very good condition. There is an automatic transit lock operated by a small pin which locks the needle when the lid is closed.  The compass needle has lost some of its original blued finish. The wooden case is in good condition, with a lovely patina, strong hinges and locking clasp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e75mm x 75mm x 20mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1326198264,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/James_Parkes08.jpg?v=1492587281"},{"product_id":"w-gregory-co-british-army-marching-compass-c-1900","title":"W. Gregory \u0026 Co. British Army Marching Compass c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn excellent example of an English military marching compass dating from c.1893-1904. This is a very rare and unusual design, I have only seen one other example. The 'W', 'E' and 'S' markings on the glass and the red War Office broad arrow or 'crow's foot' mark at the North point on the compass card are features that mark this out as a particularly rare compass. The hand drawn paper compass card has the retailer's name: 'W. Gregory \u0026amp; Co, 51 Strand, London'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe broad arrow marking and Gregory's well-known association with the British Army strongly suggests that this compass was intended for military use, most probably during the Boer War. As Gregory died in 1904, it is reasonable to assume that the compass was made around the turn of the century. The compass has a hand-drawn paper card, with a red broad arrow at the north point, a jewelled pivot, and a brass hunter case. There is an automatic transit lock which engages when the lid is in place. There would have been a paper sighting marker attached to the inside of the lid, but this is no longer present.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Gregory (1837-1904)\u003c\/strong\u003e was a notable military photographer and optician who worked from this address from c.1881 until his death in 1904. One of his advertisments from 1885 described the business as 'Optician to H. M. Government (War Dept.), the National Rifle Association, etc'. In 1889 Gregory was forced to file for bankruptcy, and his business was taken over by Samuel Smith \u0026amp; Sons, with Gregory staying on as manager. During the 1890s Gregory established himself as a successful photographer of military subjects, and examples of his glass negatives and photographs can be seen at the National Army Museum. As Gregory died in 1904, this compass must have been made between 1881 and 1904, probably by one of the best London makers, such as Francis Barker. Gregory was not a compass maker, and would have bought items such as this wholesale from makers like Barker, signing them with the company name, before selling them in his shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition and finds north well. The automatic transit lock is working perfectly. The compass card is in very good condition. The original glass is in very good condition. The brass case is in good condition, with a few marks and minor signs of age and wear. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 47mm diameter (excluding loop, 70mm including loop)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1326835852,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Boer_War_Gregory05.jpg?v=1490176068"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-indian-army-singers-patent-compass-c-1860","title":"Francis Barker Indian Army Singer's Patent Compass c.1868","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn extremely rare (possibly unique) compass, made by Francis Barker in the 1860s for the British Army in India. This compass is exceptionally unusual in that it is not only signed by Barker, it is also marked 'Stanley, London' on the compass card and features the official War Office broad arrow or 'crow's foot' mark. The broad arrow appears above a capital letter 'I', denoting  that this compass was issued to the Indian Army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe paper compass card is hand drawn in the classic Singer's design, and marked 'Singer's Patent', although without a serial number, which dates the compass to around the time the patent elapsed in 1868. The date of the compass can be narrowed down further as the card is also marked 'Trade Mark London', with the letter 'S' the right way round, identifying it as having been made before the end of 1875 (the 'S' was reversed after the death of Francis Barker in December 1875). It has a jewelled pivot and nickel plated brass hunter case, with a transit lock which operates when the lid is closed. The compass even retains the original leather strap, which would have been used to attach it to an officer's tunic or belt.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #6fa8dc;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer\u003c\/strong\u003e (1796 - c.1875)\u003c\/span\u003e was a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition and full working order. The leather strap shows signs of wear and age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 48mm (65mm including loop)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1366050372,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Singers_Indian_army_-_25.jpg?v=1519215519"},{"product_id":"early-francis-barker-rgs-pattern-pocket-compass-pre-1875","title":"Francis Barker 'RGS' Pattern Pocket Compass c.1875","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Francis Barker 'R.G.S.' Pattern pocket compass, dating from before 1875. This type of compass card design was mentioned in the Royal Geographical Society's \u003cem\u003eHints to Travellers\u003c\/em\u003e in 1871. This compass was produced by Francis Barker before the end of 1875, as it is stamped with the Barker pre-1875 style Trademark (with the letter 'S' facing the correct way round). This design was produced with either a paper or aluminium compass card. This example has the aluminium version. The design was registered by Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son Ltd in 1903, and after that date the registered number was usually printed on the card. Versions of this design were still appearing in scientific instrument catalogues in the late 1920s (J.H. Steward featured several examples in their 1928 catalogue). The compass has a blackened brass case, aluminium compass card in almost pristine condition, red dot North point, and jewelled pivot. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. It is clearly stamped with the Barker pre-1875 trademark on the bottom of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition and full working order. The compass card is in lovely condition. The case retains much of its 'oxidised' finish, and the original glass is in good condition, with just a tiny, repaired crack at the edge under the friction ring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36mm (56mm including loop)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1403807620,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_RGS_187507.jpg?v=1493641467"},{"product_id":"victorian-pocket-compass-c-1870","title":"Victorian Pocket Compass c.1870","description":"\u003cp\u003eA delicate and unusually small mid-Victorian leather cased pocket compass. This is a quite a rare antique compass, as this type of compass is not often seen in this compact size (27mm diameter). With a distinctive 19th century English blued needle and detailed compass card. The needle has gilt North and South markers and a brass pivot. In its original, blue velvet lined, morocco leather case. The case is in good condition, with the leather covering missing from the base. The rest of the leather covering is complete and in good condition. The original glass is in very good condition. The compass is in full working order and finds North well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition and full working order, with the leather covering missing from the base of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 27mm (diameter)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":15099491268,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Tiny_victorian09.jpg?v=1491585863"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-pocket-compass","title":"J. H. Steward Pocket Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass cased J. H. Steward pocket compass,  dating from c.1890-1928. The compass card is marked 'J. H. Steward Ltd, London'. This design was still being produced in the 1920's and several versions were offered for sale in Steward's 1928 catalogue. The card design was a development of the classic Singer's Patent design of the 1860's. The compass features a hand drawn paper compass card with red 'N' marker, agate jewelled pivot, manual transit lock, bevelled glass, and an oxidised finish brass case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Henry Steward\u003c\/strong\u003e established his business in London in 1852. As a maker and retailer of optical, scientific, military and surveying instruments. J.H. Steward was the head optician of the company and had businesses at 406 Strand, 457 West Strand and 54 Cornhill in London. In the mid 1800s he became the optician to Her Majesty's Government and the National Rifle, and National Artillery Associations. James Henry Steward died in 1896. J. H. Steward Ltd was incorporated in 1912 and continued in business until the middle of the 20th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition and finds north well. There is some wear to the original oxidised finish of the case. The transit lock works perfectly. The compass card and original glass are in good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 38mm (58 including loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33064903240,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/J_H_Steward_compass_-_5.jpg?v=1543504317"},{"product_id":"ross-co-brass-box-pocket-compass","title":"Ross \u0026 Co. Brass Box Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass box Ross \u0026amp; Co. pocket compass, with a press fit lid, dating from c.1890-1900. This compass features a brass case with lid, bevelled glass, paper compass card, English bar needle and jewelled pivot. There is an automatic transit lock operated by a tiny lever on the edge of the case. The compass card is signed by Ross of London. An almost identical, unsigned, compass can be seen on p.26 of \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e by Kornelia Takacs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoss \u0026amp; Co, London\u003c\/strong\u003e: Andrew Ross (1798–1859) founded the company in 1830 at Wigmore Street in London, and from 1840 he began producing camera lenses signed \"A. Ross\". During his lifetime, the company was one of the foremost British lens manufacturers. After Andrew's death in 1859 his son-in-law, J. H. Dallmeyer, left the firm to establish his own optical company. From 1860 onwards the company was run by Thomas Ross, and became known as Ross \u0026amp; Co. By the 1890s Ross were making Zeiss and Goerz lenses under licence for sale in the UK and the British Empire. Before WW1 Ross and Zeiss worked quite closely together, and at the outbreak of war the British Government put Ross in control of the newly opened Carl Zeiss binocular and optical factory in Mill Hill, London. From around the start of the 20th century Ross \u0026amp; Co. were known as suppliers of optical, scientific and nautical instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition and good working order and finds North well. There is a little dust under the glass, a few marks on the compass card, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the case. The automatic transit lock is activated when the lid is replaced and is in perfect working order. The lid fits perfectly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 45mm x 12mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34556009160,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Ross_london_-_14.jpg?v=1492466214"},{"product_id":"r-bailey-of-birmingham-pocket-compass","title":"R. Bailey of Birmingham, Pocket Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fine brass box pocket compass, signed by R. Bailey, 14 Bennett's Hill, Birmingham, dating from c.1880-1900. This compass features a brass case with press-fit lid, aluminium compass card, English bar needle and a jewelled pivot. It originally had an automatic transit lock operated by a lever on the edge of the case, but the lifting arm is now missing. In all other respects the compass is in excellent working order. The compass card is signed 'R. Bailey, 14 Bennetts Hill, Birmingham'. A high quality compass, it would have been produced by one of the best maker's of the time and retailed by Bailey from their Birmingham shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eR. Bailey, Birmingham\u003c\/strong\u003e: Established in Birmingham in the 19th century, R. Bailey were a firm of opticians. During the 1890's they advertised their services as the official optician to the Birmingham and Midland Eye Hospital. R. Bailey were active between c.1880-1900.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition and working order and finds North well. There are a few small marks on the compass card and some marks on the needle. The automatic transit lock is no longer operational. The brass case is in very good condition and the lid fits perfectly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 70mm x 15mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34984348680,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Bennets_compass_-_12.jpg?v=1493060038"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-verners-patent-marching-compass","title":"J. H. Steward Verner's Patent Marching Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003e“A lull seemed to settle over all the earth . . . [until] the spell of comparative calm is broken by the enemy shelling the North end of Thiepval Wood. The shells were falling all around us [and] the candles in Battalion headquarters kept going out”.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Bowen’s War Diary\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cem\u003eSomme, 1st July 1916\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rare Verner's Patent marching compass, serial number 1353, made by J. H. Steward and dating from c.1895. The compass originally belonged to \u003cstrong\u003eLieut-Colonel Francis Osborne Bowen D.S.O.\u003c\/strong\u003e, commanding officer of of the 14th Royal Irish Rifles and 4th Battalion Royal Irish Regiment during WW1. The compass has Bowen's name, initials, and regiment written on the paper strip inside the lid, and his surname is also faintly visible on the top of the lid, just above the maker's details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass has a brass case, marked with J. H. Steward's details, Verner patent markings, and the serial number 1353. It features a hand-painted compass card with a central area treated with 'Balmain's Luminous Paint' (patented by William Balmain in 1877), and a large black North marker. There is a transit lock operated by a sliding button, but this is no longer working. Another small button on the case operates a brake and this is working just as it should.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis compass is identical to one (serial no. 711) carried by Lieutenant C. J. Clerk during the famous charge of the 21st Lancers at the Battle of Omdurman. Another example of the Verner patent marching compass can be seen at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.compassmuseum.com\" title=\"compassmuseum.com\"\u003ecompassmuseum.com\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ethe compass is in very good condition and finds North well. The transit lock is no longer working, but in all other respects the compass is in full working order. The compass card, glass, and case are all in very good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 55mm (75mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Osborne Bowen D.S.O. (1877-1948)\u003c\/strong\u003e was born at Hollymount, County Mayo, Ireland. In 1902 he was serving as an officer in the 3rd Battalion of the Connaught Rangers. By 1908 he was a Captain in the Royal Irish Regiment. In 1911 he was stationed in Jersey with the Royal Irish Regiment. He went out to France with the regiment in December 1914. During WW1 Francis Bowen served as the commanding officer of the 14th (Young Citizens) Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles at the Battle of the Somme, before commanding the 4th Battalion of the Royal Irish Regiment from March 1918 to the end of the war. After WW1 he continued to serve in the army, going out to India in October 1924. Francis Bowen died at Clones, Ireland in June 1948. His war diaries and other papers are held at The National Archives at Kew (ref: CAB 45\/188).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLt-Colonel William Willoughby Cole Verner (1852-1922)\u003c\/strong\u003e served on the staff in the Egyptian campaign of 1884-85 and during the Boer War. He retired as a Lt-Colonel in May 1904. The earliest Verner designs were simple pocket compasses, with the various models of the Service Pattern, MK III to MK VII, appearing between c.1895-1918. His prismatic service compasses were essentially a development of the Schmalcalder patent design of the early 19th century, but they remained the standard service compass of the British Army until the start of WW2. As well as designing compasses, Verner was a prolific author, military historian, and chronicler of the Rifle Brigade.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42958947400,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Bowen_Verner_compass_-_25.jpg?v=1502196636"},{"product_id":"w-gregory-pocket-altimeter-barometer-c-1900","title":"W. Gregory \u0026 Co. Pocket Altimeter Barometer c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA late Victorian pocket altimeter barometer, dating from c.1881-1904. It would have been used by explorers, mountaineers, balloonists, or travellers. The dial is inscribed with the retailer's name: \u003cstrong\u003e'Gregory \u0026amp; Co, 51 Strand, London'\u003c\/strong\u003e. William Gregory was a notable military photographer and optician who worked from this address from c.1881 until his death in 1904. As Gregory died in 1904, it is reasonable to assume that the barometer was made around the turn of the century, probably by one of the best makers, such as Francis Barker. Barker was a prolific maker of pocket barometers from the Victorian era through to the early 20th century. Almost all of Barker's barometers were supplied unsigned to the retail trade, with the retailer often adding their own details to the dial. The dial is calibrated from zero to 5000 feet, with additional 'Rain', 'Change', and 'Fair' markings. The barometer has a brass case, blued needle, rotating bezel operated by turning the crown, and an adjustment screw on the rear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barometer is in good condition and full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The brass case is in good condition, with some wear to the original lacquered finish. The bevelled glass is in good condition, with a small, stable, hairline crack to the underside of the glass at 4 o'clock. The dial and needle are in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e45mm diameter (70mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1257977085960,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Gregory_Barometer_-_10.jpg?v=1514996775"},{"product_id":"copy-of-georgian-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Pocket Compass \u0026 Case c.1790","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn 18th century Georgian pocket compass dating from c.1790 or possibly earlier. With a hand painted enamel or porcelain dial of a typically mid to late 18th century style. The design is similar to that of compasses sold by J \u0026amp; G Simms of London around 1790.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis compass has a delicate, finely made English bar needle, and a jewelled pivot. With a fire-gilt or gold plated case, original bevelled glass, and fitted leather case. The case is a very rare twin-clasp design, lined with red velvet. The outer covering is most likely shark or ray skin, which was typical of the late 18th century. The red velvet lining also points to a late 18th century date of manufacture. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a very high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and good working order. With general signs of age and use, some marks to the enamel dial, and some dust (actually looks like evaporated salt - was this a mariner's compass?) under the glass at the edges. The leather case is in good condition, with both clasps working well, and a good strong hinge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e compass: 35mm diameter, case: 45mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1447303708680,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Mariners_compass_-_14.jpg?v=1516826578"},{"product_id":"singers-prismatic-pocket-compass-1","title":"Victorian Singer's Prismatic Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Prismatic, Singers's type, Pocket Compass, dating from c.1868. 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. This compass has an oxidized brass case, green Singer's Patent style compass card, a jewelled pivot, an optical prism, and a folding sighting vane. It also has a manual brake and an automatic transit lock, which is operated when the sighting vane is folded down. The distinctive bright green card design was intended to enhance the night marching capabilities of the compass, and this type of compass was often used by the British Army from around 1860 to 1900. This particular example is quite unusual in that it is only 50mm in diameter. The vast majority of examples of this type of compass were larger, at around 70mm. It is also rare to see this type of compass with a Singer's card, as most were produced with a card of a much simpler design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSingers's Patent Compass\u003c\/strong\u003e: Samuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) was a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and full working order, the compass finds north very well. With just some wear to the original oxidized finish of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm (diameter)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":8677901533236,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Greencard_prismatic_-_7.jpg?v=1528302426"},{"product_id":"cary-singers-patent-pocket-compass-c-1865","title":"Cary, London, Singer's Patent Compass c.1865","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn early example of a Singer's Patent pocket compass, dating from around 1865, with the serial number: 15878. The presence of the serial number means that the compass was certainly made before Singer's patent expired in 1868. The mother of pearl compass card is hand painted in the classic Singer's design, and marked 'Singer's Patent, No. 15878'. The card also has the maker's mark 'Cary, London'. The compass has a working transit lock. Originally, it may have had a push-fit lid, but there are no marks on the case to confirm this possibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCary, London:\u003c\/strong\u003e William Cary (1759 – 1825) was an English scientific-instrument maker. He produced numerous scientific instruments including mechanical calculators, measuring instruments, telescopes, microscopes, navigation and survey equipment. William Cary had three brothers, the eldest George (c.1753 - 1830) was a haberdasher while the second brother John, was a mapmaker who also worked with William and the last, Francis (c.1756 - 1836) was an engraver. Cary learnt the skills for producing instruments as an apprentice of Jesse Ramsdan (1735 - 1800). After his death in 1825, the firm was taken over by Charles Gould, who may have trained briefly under William Cary. The company continued trading for almost 100 years, being run by various members of the Gould family, including Charlotte Hyde Gould (c.1797 - 1865).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and working order. The compass finds north, although sometimes a little slowly. The mother of pearl card is in good condition. The transit lock is in working order. There is a little dust under the glass and some minor wear to the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 35mm (Diameter)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":8679881965620,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Cary_Singers_-_10.jpg?v=1528357375"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-wooden-desk-compass","title":"Francis Barker Wooden Desk Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very good early example of a Francis Barker 'presentation' desk compass, dating from around 1890-1900. There is no maker's mark, but this is a well known Barker design. With a jewelled pivot, paper compass card, and a turned wooden case. This type of desk or 'presentation' compass was originally produced by Francis Barker in the 19th century, and continued in production until quite recently, with a painted aluminium case replacing the earlier wooden one. This type of compass was often presented to senior naval officers to mark a significant event or personal achievement. Details of the original model and later developments can be found in Paul Crespel's excellent book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and full working order, it finds North very well. The half-blued finish of the needle has faded over time, and there are some minor spots of surface corrosion. The glass is unmarked, and the wooden case is in good condition, with some signs of age and use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: 160mm diameter\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":8754315165748,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_Wooden_-_14.jpg?v=1528889886"},{"product_id":"troughton-simms-victorian-pocket-compass-c-1880","title":"Troughton \u0026 Simms Victorian Pocket Compass c.1880","description":"A rare and unusually large (60mm diameter) antique Victorian pocket compass, by the well known English maker, Troughton \u0026amp; Simms of London. This is a beautifully made, very high quality compass, with a hand painted compass card, English bar needle, jewelled pivot, and fitted twin-clasp velvet lined leather case. It is in good, original, condition. Made during the late Victorian era, probably around 1880-1890. The compass card is clearly marked ‘Troughton \u0026amp; Simms, London’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e***Please note: the compass is not in full working order, as the transit lock release is not functioning, and the compass needle is locked in position and unable to move***\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTroughton \u0026amp; Simms:\u003c\/strong\u003e were a British instrument making firm, formed when Edward Troughton (1756-1835) took on William Simms as a partner in 1826. It became a limited company in 1915 and in 1922 it merged with T. Cooke \u0026amp; Sons to form Cooke, Troughton \u0026amp; Simms. The firm produced a wide variety of scientific and astronomical instruments, such as compasses, transit circles, sextants, telescopes, and other instruments for observatories around the world. Previously, Troughton had been a sole proprietor, and before that he was in partnership with his brother John. When John died Edward took on Simms in 1826. Edward Troughton died in 1835. In 1876 Troughton \u0026amp; Simms supplied the Imperial Standards Of Length gauges mounted at Trafalgar Square in London. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn very good condition, but \u003cstrong\u003eNOT in full working order\u003c\/strong\u003e. The button at the bow which should operate the transit lock has become detached and no longer connects to the transit lock lever which runs beneath the compass card. The result of this is that the needle is locked in position and does not move. This could be rectified if the compass was dismantled, but that would probably be quite difficult to achieve, as this type of compass was not designed to be easily dismantled. There is a mark to the case near the bow where it looks as though someone has tried to open it in the past. The leather case is in very good condition, with both clasps secure. Despite the transit lock issue, this rare compass would make an excellent display item.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCompass: 60mm diameter (85mm inc. bow \u0026amp; loop) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLeather Case: 70mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9167144255540,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Troughton_compass_-_6.jpg?v=1532421271"},{"product_id":"georgian-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Pocket Compass c.1830","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian Brass box English pocket compass, with a press-fit lid, dating from c.1820-1840. With a paper compass card of a typically ornate, detailed Georgian style. The compass has a delicate and finely made blued needle, and a Georgian 'Crown' style brass pivot. In a lidded brass case, with an automatic transit lock operated when the lid is replaced. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and excellent working order. The compass finds North very well. The transit lock is fully functional. With just the normal signs of age, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the brass case and lid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60mm diameter (depth: 15mm)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9302243409972,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_compass_-_19.jpg?v=1534350397"},{"product_id":"georgian-pocket-compass-c-1820","title":"Georgian Pocket Compass c.1820","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian Brass box English pocket compass, with a press-fit lid, dating from c.1800 - 1830. With a paper compass card of a typical Georgian style, and a fleur-de-lys marker at the North point. The compass has a jewelled pivot, and a brass case with a red painted interior. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the best makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and full working order. The compass finds North well. With just the normal signs of age, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the brass case and lid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm diameter (depth: 15mm)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9516506153012,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_Red_-_24.jpg?v=1536219635"},{"product_id":"j-hicks-pocket-altimeter-barometer-c-1880","title":"J. Hicks Pocket Altimeter Barometer c.1880","description":"An excellent Victorian pocket altimeter barometer, made by \u003cstrong\u003eJ. Hicks, of Hatton Garden, London\u003c\/strong\u003e, and dating from the last quarter of the 19th century. It would have been used by explorers, mountaineers, or travellers. It was made in England, around 1880-1890, by J. Hicks, probably the best maker of the time. The barometer has a rotating bezel, calibrated from zero to 10,000 feet, a blued needle, a beautifully gilded brass case, and a fitted, satin and blue velvet lined, morocco leather case. The barometer also has an adjustment screw on the rear. It is quite large for a pocket barometer, at 70mm (2 3\/4 inches) diameter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJ. Hicks, Hatton Garden, London\u003c\/strong\u003e: James J. Hicks (1837-1916) established his business in Hatton Garden, London in 1861 and quickly became the most important supplier of barometers and meteorological equipment in London. By 1914 the company had 150 employees. The company traded at 8 Hatton Garden, before expanding to 8, 9, \u0026amp; 10 Hatton Garden (c.1890s). In 1852 Hicks had been apprenticed to L. P. Casella of Hatton Garden, where by 1860 he had risen to the status of foreman. This date marks also the first of many patents filed by Hicks, principally relating to meteorological and clinical thermometers, but covering other items such as barometers, hydrometers and radiometers, aneroid barometers, and various medical appliances utilizing aneroid pressure capsules. From 1878, as an independent manufacturer, Hicks catered to the developing science of meteorology, the growing use of industrial control instruments, and to military needs, by the provision of scientific, industrial, and domestic thermometers, barometers, and pressure gauges, and many other types of apparatus. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe barometer is in very good condition and full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The gilt brass case is in very good condition, with only minor wear to the original gilt and lacquered finish. The bevelled glass is in very good condition. The dial and needle are in very good condition. The leather case is in very good condition, with minor signs of wear. The exterior push-button is missing, but the interior catch is present and working, keeping the case closed properly. The case can easily be opened simply by applying a little pressure at the spot where the button would have been.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e : 70mm diameter (case: 80mm)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9724069576756,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Hicks_barometer_-_9.jpg?v=1537264660"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-luminous-pocket-compass-c-1875","title":"Francis Barker Luminous Pocket Compass c.1875","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass Hunter cased, English bar needle, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1875 or earlier. The inside of the lid is clearly stamped with the pre-1875 Barker 'Trade Mark London' logo. The 'Trade Mark London' logo has the letter 'S' the right way round, identifying it as having been made before the end of 1875 (the 'S' was reversed after the death of Francis Barker in December 1875).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is an early version of the 'Improved Colonial, No. 3014' compass which was made by Barker and featured in many of their catalogues from the Victorian era until the mid 1920s. Further details of this particular compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e (p.236) by Paul Crespel, and at the trademarklondon.com website. It also features in Kornelia Takac's book \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e on p.68.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular compass is unusual in that it has luminous paint markers at the four cardinal points. This type of luminous paint, most probably an early version of 'Balmain's Luminous Paint', was a compound of calcium sulphide. The paint was made luminous by exposure to sunlight or by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon near the compass card. It was patented in England in 1877 by William Balmain, and was often used in compasses during the late 19th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, full working order and finds North well. There is some wear to the paper compass card, and some marks to the compass needle. The original transit lock is present and fully functional. The case is in good condition, with some marks. The glass is in good condition with a couple of small scratches.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 45mm (excluding loop), 65mm (inc. loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13092608868404,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_luminous_colonial_-_27.jpg?v=1538130219"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-miniature-pocket-compass","title":"Francis Barker Miniature Pocket Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA miniature brass box, push-fit lid, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1875-1900. The compass is clearly signed on the card with the distinctive 'Trade Mark London' Barker logo. The reversed letter 'S' that forms part of the logo dates the compass to sometime after 1875, as this style of logo was adopted after Francis Barker's death in 1875. This design featured in many Barker catalogues until the mid 1920s. Further details of this type of Francis Barker compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e by Paul Crespel, and at the trademarklondon.com website.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, working order and finds North very well. The case is in good condition, with much of the original lacquered finish still present. The glass is in good condition. The paper compass card and blued needle are in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 29mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13212815786036,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_small_box_-_4.jpg?v=1538480467"},{"product_id":"victorian-altimeter-barometer-thermometer-c-1880","title":"Victorian Altimeter Barometer Thermometer c.1880","description":"A Victorian pocket altimeter barometer and thermometer, dating from the last quarter of the 19th century. It would have been used by explorers, mountaineers, or travellers. It was made in England, and is a high quality instrument, probably from one of the best makers of the time. The barometer has a rotating bezel, calibrated from zero to 8,000 feet, a blued needle, a brass case, integral thermometer, and a fitted, satin and green velvet lined, morocco leather case. The barometer also has an adjustment screw on the rear.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe barometer is in good condition and full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The thermometer is in good working order. The brass case is in good condition, with some wear to the original lacquered finish. The bevelled glass is in very good condition. The dial and needle are in good condition. The leather case is in good condition, with general signs of wear, and is missing its push-button. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions : 45mm diameter (leather case: 70mm length)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13843302121524,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barometer_therm_-_9.jpg?v=1543922940"},{"product_id":"victorian-solid-silver-pocket-compass-london-1897","title":"Victorian Silver Compass, Lewis Nightingale, London 1897","description":"\u003cp\u003eA solid silver English miniature pocket compass, made by the Victorian silversmith Lewis Nightingale, and hallmarked for London 1897. The compass has a sterling silver case, bevelled glass, English bar needle with a jewelled pivot, and a push-button transit lock. This compass would originally have been part of a barometer, compass, and thermometer compendium set, which would have been sold with all three instruments presented in a fitted morocco leather case. (photos of an identical compass, in a set made by Lewis Nightingale in 1895, can be seen at vavasseur-antiques.com\/portfolios\/scarce-miniature-silver-pocket-barometer-compendium-nightingale\/)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, full working order and finds North well. The solid silver case is in very good condition, with good clear hallmarks. The marks for Lewis Nightingale, 1897, sterling silver, and London are all easily legible. The original bevelled glass is in good condition, with some signs of wear and a few scratches. The compass card and bar needle are in very good condition. The transit lock is fully functional\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 23mm diameter (35mm including loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLewis Nightingale\u003c\/strong\u003e: was an English silversmith working in Clerkenwell, London during the late Victorian period. Known as a maker of fine quality silver cases for barometers and compasses, his maker's mark was registered in 1894.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13931140612148,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Silver_compass_-_30.jpg?v=1547228792"},{"product_id":"georgian-brass-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Brass Pocket Compass c.1830","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian Brass box English pocket compass, with a press-fit lid, dating from c.1820-1840. With a paper compass card of a typically ornate, detailed Georgian style. The compass has a delicate and finely made blued needle, and a Georgian 'Crown' style brass pivot. In a lidded brass case, with a beautifully engineered transit lock operated when the lid is replaced. There is a duplicate of the paper compass card inside the lid. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and excellent working order. The compass finds North very well. The transit lock is fully functional. With just the normal signs of age, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the brass case and lid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 57mm diameter (depth: 15mm)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14032332783668,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_compass_2-19_-_10.jpg?v=1549211624"},{"product_id":"georgian-nickel-silver-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Nickel Silver Pocket Compass c.1830","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian nickel-silver pocket compass dating from c.1830. With a hand-drawn floating paper compass card of a typical Georgian style. In a nickel-silver brass case. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a very high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition, and excellent working order. The compass finds North very well. With just the normal signs of age, and some minor wear to the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 35mm diameter (55mm inc. bow)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14107554349108,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_Nsilver_CL_-_18.jpg?v=1550239008"},{"product_id":"night-marching-compass-c-1880-1900","title":"Dollond Night Marching Compass c.1880-1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Dollond Night Marching type pocket compass, dating from c.1880-1900.  It may well have been intended for military use, as an officer's compass. The compass features an aluminium card with a large hand-painted North-South arrow, painted centre, and jewelled pivot. The card may have been painted with a luminous compound (most probably \u003cstrong\u003e‘Balmain’s Luminous Paint’\u003c\/strong\u003e), which was activated by exposure to very bright light, often created by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon. There is a sighting window in the lid and an additional sighting point in the loop. The compass has an oxidised brass case, a transit lock, and a manual brake. Compasses of this type are known to have been manufactured by \u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker\u003c\/strong\u003e before 1875, and it is quite likely that this example was made by Barker and retailed by Dollond, who would have engraved their own details on the lid. The compass is signed on the lid by \u003cstrong\u003e'Dollond, London’\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDollond and Company\u003c\/strong\u003e, (optical and scientific instrument maker): In 1750 \u003cstrong\u003ePeter Dollond\u003c\/strong\u003e opened a small optical business in Vine Street, Hatton Garden, London, under his father's guidance. By 1752 The business was sufficiently successful that \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dollond\u003c\/strong\u003e, Peter's father, gave up silk weaving and went into partnership with his son in the optical business. In 1758 John Dollond obtained a patent on a compound lens for refracting telescopes. These lenses were described as achromatic, a term said to have been coined by Dr John Bevis. Although there was a dispute as to who had first invented the achromatic lens, Dollond certainly devised a quicker and simpler method of correcting the spherical aberration of lenses, as well as a method of measuring the lenses so that batches could be matched and achromatic doublet lenses reliably produced, thereby bringing the achromatic lens to market. In 1759 J. Dollond and Son opened a shop in the Strand. In 1761 John Dollond was appointed optician to George III and the Duke of York. In 1766 Peter went into partnership with his younger brother, John. They went onto supply optical instruments for Captain Cook and for Hadley. In 1781 Peter Dollond began making bifocal spectacles. John Dollond died in 1804 and Peter Dollond took his nephew \u003cb\u003eGeorge Huggins\u003c\/b\u003e into partnership; Huggins changed his name by licence to Dollond. The trading name of the business remained P. and J. Dollond. In 1819 George took over the company. In 1820 Peter and George were jointly made opticians to George IV. During the 1800s Dollond's sold the \u003ci\u003eCamera Lucida\u003c\/i\u003e, a drawing aid patented in 1806 by William Hyde Wollaston and manufactured by the Dollonds; and the \u003ci\u003eCamera Obscura\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1851 Dollond's were awarded a medal at the Great Exhibition for instruments for recording meteorological information on a strip of paper. In 1852 The younger George succeeded to the family business on his uncle's death; following the family tradition, he too adopted the surname Dollond. In 1866, when the second George Dollond died, the firm was taken over by his son, William (1834–1893). By 1871 William Dollond had become too ill to continue working and he sold the firm to J. R. Chant, a former employee, who retained the trading name of Dollond. During the early 20th century Dollonds sold film cameras, and in 1927 the firm was acquired by James Aitchison to become Dollond and Aitchison, after which it concentrated increasingly on prescription spectacles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\nIn very good original condition, and good working order. The compass finds north well. The oxidised finish of the case is in almost perfect condition. Unusually, the compass retains its original rubber friction ring on the base of the case. The compass card and glass are in very good condition. The transit lock and manual brake are working well. The lid fits perfectly and the hinge is strong. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 55mm diameter (80mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14890083680308,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Dollond_marching_-_3.jpg?v=1556282422"},{"product_id":"victorian-pocket-altimeter-barometer-c-1890","title":"Victorian Pocket Altimeter Barometer c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Victorian pocket altimeter barometer, dating from c.1900. It would have been used by explorers, mountaineers, or travellers. Although there are no obvious maker's marks, it was made in England, probably around 1900, by one of the best makers, almost certainly Francis Barker. Francis Barker was a prolific maker of pocket barometers from the Victorian era through to the early 20th century. Almost all of Barker's barometers were supplied unsigned to the retail trade, with the retailer often adding their own details to the dial. But Barker often added a discreet marking on the dial, a kind of hidden signature - in this case it can be seen in the letter 'C' placed between the '31' and '21' markings. The dial is calibrated from zero to 10,000 feet, with additional 'Rain', 'Change', and 'Fair' markings. The barometer has a gilt brass case, blued needle, a rotating bezel operated by turning the crown, and an adjustment screw on the rear. Two almost identical Barometers, made by Francis Barker between 1905-1910, can be seen on pages 86-87 of Paul Crespel's book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barometer is in good condition and full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The gilt brass case is in good condition, with some wear to the original lacquered finish. The glass is in good condition, with a couple of minor scatches. The dial and needle are in good condition. The fitted Moroccan leather, velvet lined, case has general signs of wear, and is missing its push-button clasp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e50mm (75mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":28590381563956,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_Barometer_-_23.jpg?v=1558541279"},{"product_id":"t-armstrong-sons-prismatic-pocket-compass-c-1880","title":"Thomas Armstrong Prismatic Pocket Compass \u0026 Case c.1880","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Greencard Prismatic Pocket Compass, signed by \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Armstrong, of Deansgate, Manchester\u003c\/strong\u003e, dating from c.1880. It was made by F. Barker \u0026amp; Son and has their distinctive reversed 'S' post-1875 'Trade Mark London' logo at North on the compass card. Barker would have supplied the compass to Armstrong's, who would then have added their own details to the card. It is very unusual to see both the maker's and the retailer's signature on the card - Barker usually supplied their instruments unsigned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis 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. This compass has an oxidized brass case with a push-fit lid, hand-drawn Singer's Patent design compass card, jewelled pivot, optical prism, and folding sighting vane. There are luminous markers at North and South, painted with a special compound (most probably ‘Balmain’s Luminous Paint’, patented in 1877), which was activated by exposure to very bright light, often created by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon. The compass comes with its original morocco leather case, lined with blue velvet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe British Army used this type of compass from around 1860 to 1900. This particular example is unusual in that it is only 50mm in diameter. Most examples of this type of compass were larger, at around 70mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThomas Armstrong \u0026amp; Brother, Manchester:\u003c\/strong\u003e Armstrong’s had been trading in Manchester since 1825, as jewellers and silversmiths. Around 1851 Thomas Armstrong expanded the business to include the manufacture of optical instruments. In 1868 he took his brother George into the business and changed its name to 'Thomas Armstrong \u0026amp; Brother'. This helps to date the compass to sometime after 1868, which also ties in with the Singer’s Patent style design of the card (Singer’s patent expired in 1868). During this period Armstrong's reputation was such that in 1891 the company won the contract to supply the War Office, the Admiralty, the Board of Trade, the India Office and the General Post Office (G.P.O) with scientific instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn excellent, near mint condition and full working order, with just some minor wear to the original morocco leather case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCompass: 50mm (diameter), 70mm including prism\u003cbr\u003eCase: 90mm (length), 25mm (depth)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":28675271458868,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_Greencard_coffin_-_12.jpg?v=1581353771"},{"product_id":"ww1-rossignol-military-compass","title":"Rossignol Military Compass (1894)","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn extremely rare French artillery or survey compass dating from c.1894, invented by Camille Rossignol, a French officer and firearms expert. \u003cstrong\u003eCaptain Louis-Camille Rossignol (1851-1943)\u003c\/strong\u003e was a French officer and inventor, who served as 'Chef Armurier' with the 106th Régiment de Ligne in Châlons-sur-Marne. He is best known for designing an improved military compass system ('\u003ci\u003eMilitaire Perfectionnée'\u003c\/i\u003e), which he patented in 1894. This instrument was in use from the 1890s to the 1930s, and was still being offered by Société des Lunetiers (S-L) in their 1932 catalogue. Rossignol also invented automatic rifles and a machine-gun. He was awarded several decorations (the Médaille Militaire, the Médaille Coloniale, and the Légion d'Honneur) for this work and for his military service in North Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRossignol patented two compass systems. The first one, dating from 1885, included a clinometer as well as a compass and was known as the \u003ci\u003eBoussole militaire devant servir à diriger les troupes et au levé des plans \u003c\/i\u003e - Military compass for leading troops and survey tasks. The second instrument, dating from 1894\u003ci\u003e,\u003c\/i\u003e was the \u003cem\u003eBoussole militaire perfectionnée\u003c\/em\u003e - Improved military compass. It is a complex and rather unusual design which features a mirrored lid, with the mirror automatically held at an angle of 45° by means of a spring and a triangular cam. It also has a boom that includes the front element of the sight and two rulers. The sight's rear element is a notch in the housing of the compass bearing setting screw. The right-hand side ruler is marked with a distance measuring scale (1\/80,000, the scale generally used in French military maps at the time). The left side is a ruler marked in millimeters. The zero reference point of both rulers is located in the compass' centre, so that the divisions read 40 to 100mm and respectively 3 to 8 km. The compass capsule rotates, has a transparent base window made of horn, and a cross, one arm of which is painted black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis compass has the maker's mark 'C. Rossignol, Chef Armurier, Bte. S.G.D.G.', on the top of the lid, and the serial number '52' on the rear sight. The low serial number shows that this compass was one of the first to be made, very probably around the time of the patent being filed in 1894. A very well made compass, with a jewelled pivot, blued needle, nickel plated brass case, and mirrored lid. It comes with its original leather case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo take a bearing, the reflection of the compass needle is viewed in the mirrored underside of the lid, and the compass capsule is rotated until the black cross arm lies under the North pointer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFurther details of this type of artillery compass and the work of Camille Rossignol can be found at the excellent compassmuseum.com website.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, working order, and finds North well. The small compass bearing setting screw is missing from the rear sight housing, but this does not affect the functioning of the compass. The original leather case is in quite worn condition and has shrunk so that it no longer fits the compass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e130mm length, 55mm width, 16mm depth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":28873932472372,"sku":"","price":185.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Rossignol_Compass_-_34.jpg?v=1762633715"},{"product_id":"victorian-wooden-box-compass","title":"Victorian Wooden Cased Pocket Compass c.1880","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Victorian mahogany cased compass, possibly made by Francis Barker c.1880. Although there are no maker's marks on the compass, the 'hidden' hinges are characteristic Barker design features. The wooden case is quite unusual in that it has a sliding brass button clasp. The elegant and minimalist card design is also very unusual, with just a star at the North point and letters at the other cardinal points. The compass has a English bar needle, jewelled pivot, aluminium card, and a transit lock operated when the lid is closed. A similar mahogany compass (with a standard clasp) can be seen in the 1907 Barker catalogue, reproduced on p.407 of Paul Crepsel's excellent book \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, which can be viewed at trademarklondon.com\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-Optics. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good, original condition and full working order. It finds north very well. The hand-painted alluminium compass card is in very good condition. There is a transit lock operated by a small pin which locks the needle when the lid is closed. The wooden case is in very good condition, with a lovely patina, 'hidden' hinges, and a sliding button clasp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e75mm x 75mm x 23mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29200101703732,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_wooden_alloy_-_16.jpg?v=1565279703"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-1860-pattern-pocket-compass","title":"Francis Barker 1860 Pattern Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Victorian or Edwardian brass box, push-fit lid, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1875-1910. It has a blued needle, a brass pivot, and a paper compass card. The compass is clearly signed on the card with the distinctive 'Trade Mark London' Barker logo. The reversed letter 'S' that forms part of the logo dates the compass to sometime after 1875, as this style of logo was adopted after Francis Barker's death in 1875. This is a classic Barker design which was first used in the 1860s, and continued to be produced until the early 1930s. Further details of this type of Francis Barker compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e by Paul Crespel (p.293), and at the trademarklondon.com website.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, working order, and finds North very well. The case and lid are in good condition, with some marks and signs of wear. Much of the original lacquered finish is still present, although quite worn on the top of the lid. The lid fits very well. The glass is in very good condition. The paper compass card and blued needle are in very good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 40mm diameter (48mm inc. loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29407631212596,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_lid_needle_sep3_-_8.jpg?v=1567582184"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-colonial-pocket-compass-1","title":"Francis Barker 'Colonial' Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass Hunter cased, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1890-1926. Although there are no maker's marks visible, this compass is the 'Improved Colonial, No. 3014' compass which was made by Barker and featured in many Barker catalogues from the 1890s until the mid 1920s. This one is unusual in that it has a glass window with an engraved sighting line in the lid, features not normally seen in this compass. Further details of this Barker compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e (p.236) by Paul Crespel, and at the trademarklondon.com website. It also features in Kornelia Takac's book \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e on p.68.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North very well. The case is in very good condition with the original blackened finish in excellent condition. The dial glass is in very good condition. The lid glass has a crack, which is stable and secure, and I have left it in place to preserve the originality of the compass. (A new spare glass of the correct size will be included, in case you prefer to replace the original). The hand drawn paper compass card is in very good condition. The pointer is an English Bar Needle with a jewelled cap. The original transit lock is present and fully functional. The lid itself is a very good fit, closing with a good firm snap. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 45mm (excluding loop), 65mm (inc. loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29428237238324,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_colonial_sep5_-_17.jpg?v=1567699362"},{"product_id":"singers-patent-prismatic-compass-c-1868","title":"Singer's Patent Prismatic Compass c.1868","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare Singer's Patent Prismatic pocket compass, dating from around 1868. With a brass case, prismatic sights, jewelled pivot, and mother of pearl compass card. One of the earliest prismatic compasses, it represents the transition between the early 19th century Schmalcalder types and the Verner's Patent compasses of the 1890s to early 1900s. The inclusion of the wording 'Singer's Patent' combined with the lack of a serial number shows that the compass was made around the time Singer's patent expired in 1868. The mother of pearl compass card is hand painted in the classic Singer's design, and marked 'Singer's Patent'. This type of compass was usually made with a paper compass card, with the mother of pearl version being much more uncommon. Although there are no makers marks, this design is known to have been made by Francis Barker before 1875, and examples can be seen at compassmuseum.com, and in Kornelia Takacs book \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e (Schiffer, 2010). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition and good working order. The compass finds north well. The mother of pearl card is in very good condition. The transit lock (operated by the button at the bow) is not working, and does not lock the dial, but this has no other effect on the functioning of the compass. There is some wear to the original blackened or oxidised finish of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm (Diameter), 65mm inc. prism\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29440635535412,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Singers_Prism_-_12.jpg?v=1568278963"},{"product_id":"barker-wooden-pocket-compass-c-1850","title":"Francis Barker Wooden Pocket Compass c.1850","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Francis Barker mahogany cased compass, made c.1850-1870. This type of wood cased compass was produced from around the end of the 18th century to the late 19th century. This example has a typically ornate Victorian compass card design. It also has the  distinctive, delicate and finely balanced blued compass needle, with gilt North and South points. Although there are no maker's marks, the 'hidden' hinges and '7' shaped clasps are characteristic features of many compasses made by Francis Barker. The compass has a paper card, flat blued needle, brass pivot, and automatic transit lock, operated by a small pin and lever when the lid is closed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a handwritten inscription inside the lid: '\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Tomlinson, Pilsley Acre House, Chesterfield'\u003c\/strong\u003e. John Tomlinson was a Victorian mining surveyor, working for the Pilsley Colliery Company during the late 19th century. He is listed in \u003cem\u003eKelly's Directory of Derbyshire\u003c\/em\u003e (May 1891) as 'surveyor to Pilsley Colliery Co.' He was also a member of the Institute of Mining Engineers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, and full working order, with just the normal signs of age and use. The compass finds North very well. The transit lock is working well. The glass, needle, and compass card are in very good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90mm x 90mm x 20mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30902981492875,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_Tomlinson_compass_-_11_9deea905-e195-4720-851e-6c98852dd573.jpg?v=1571815795"},{"product_id":"brass-cased-pocket-compass-c-1900","title":"Brass Cased Pocket Compass c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn unusual Brass cased pocket compass, dating from around the end of the 19th century. The compass features a lacquered brass case, thick bevelled glass, paper compass card, agate jewelled pivot and flat blued needle. The cardinal points are marked in very bold black lettering against a white dial, suggesting that this was intended to be used in low light, possibly as  a night marching compass. The compass needle is also rather unusual, having a cut-out section towards the north end, again possibly to aid with low light viewing. I have never seen this type of cut-out before on a flat compass needle. There is a manually operated transit lock, operated by a sliding button on the side of the case, with an additional tiny lever that damps the needle movement when depressed. The style of the case is similar to examples made by Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son c.1900, and the compass card design is similar to Barker designs of that period. But there are no maker's marks on the compass, and it cannot definitely be attributed to Barker.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order, and finds north very well. The brass case, compass card, and glass are all in very good condition. The transit lock is working very well.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 45mm (65mm including loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32240415932555,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/White-black_COMPASS_-_20.jpg?v=1581346584"},{"product_id":"singers-luminous-compass-f-barker-son-c-1870","title":"Singer's Luminous Compass, F. Barker \u0026 Son c.1870","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare version of the Francis Barker Singer's luminous pocket compass, dating from around 1870. The paper compass card is hand-drawn in an unusual variation on the classic Singer's design. The design is very similar to (and probably an early or prototype version of) the interchageable card that was used in Barker's 'Patent Universal Compass', which was introduced c.1875. A simplified version of the normal Singer's Patent style, the card has luminous markers at North and South. The type of luminous paint used was most probably an early version of 'Balmain's Luminous Paint', a compound of calcium sulphide. The paint was made luminous by exposure to sunlight or by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon near the compass card. It was patented in England in 1877 by William Balmain, and was often used in compasses during the late 19th century. The brass case is marked with Barker's 'Trade Mark London' logo, with the letter 'S' the right way round, denoting that it was made before 1875. The compass has a jewelled pivot, brass hunter case and automatic transit lock. The case would originally have had an oxidised or bronzed finish, and this can still be seen inside the lid. The compass retains its original oval instruction label inside the lid. These labels are often found in this type of compass, with details of how to activate the luminous paint.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFurther details of the various Singer's Patent designs and the Barker 'Patent Universal Compass' can be found in \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e (2010) by Kornelia Takacs, pages 41-50.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875)\u003c\/strong\u003e was a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and full working order. The compass finds North well and the transit lock is fully functional, locking the card when the lid is closed. The compass card, glass and case are all in good condition. There is a little dust under the glass.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 45mm (65mm including loop)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32441175376011,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_singers_dot_triangle_-_33.jpg?v=1618401003"},{"product_id":"victorian-brass-pocket-compass-c-1840","title":"Victorian Brass Pocket Compass c.1840","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian or Victorian Brass box English pocket compass, with a press-fit lid, dating from c.1840-1860. The brass lid has developed a very unusual gunmetal-coloured patina. With a paper compass card, finely made blued needle, and a brass pivot. The compass is in working order and finds North well. The compass retains its original glass, which has a slight bruise at SW. The paper compass card has become warped over time and has lifted away from the bottom of the case. This can cause the needle to stick temporarily, but a quick shake gets it moving again. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and working order, with the needle catching at times on the warped compass card. The compass finds North very well. With general signs of age, and some marks to the case. The lid has a very distinctive and unusual gunmetal-coloured patina. The original glass is in very good condition, with just a slight bruise at SW.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 57mm diameter (depth: 15mm)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":37910261268631,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Blackbrasscompass-48.jpg?v=1606409185"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-brass-box-pocket-compass-c-1890","title":"J. H. Steward Brass Box Pocket Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass box J. H. Steward pocket compass, with a press fit lid, dating from c.1890-1900. In lovely, original condition, this compass features a blackened or oxidised finish brass case with lid, aluminium compass card, English bar needle and jewelled pivot. There is an automatic transit lock operated by a tiny lever on the edge of the case. The compass card is signed by J. H. Steward, London. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJ. H. Steward Ltd\u003c\/strong\u003e: James Henry Steward (1817-1896) established his business in London in 1852 as a maker and retailer of optical, scientific, military and surveying instruments. J.H. Steward was the head optician of the company and had businesses at 406 Strand, 457 West Strand and 54 Cornhill in London. In the mid 1800s he became the optician to Her Majesty's Government and the National Rifle, and National Artillery Associations. James Henry Steward died in 1896. J. H. Steward Ltd was incorporated in 1912 and continued in business in London until 1973. The main London office was sold in 1971, and from 1971-1973 the company rented premises in Catherine Street. All the remaining stock and long serving staff member George Goble (c.1916-1975) were moved to Catherine Street. The business finally moved to 154a Church Road, Hove, Sussex in 1973, before finally ceasing trading in 1975.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North very well. There is some minor wear to the original blackened finish of the case. The automatic transit lock is activated when the lid is replaced and is in perfect working order. The lid fits perfectly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 65mm x 15mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":38012989210775,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/JHStewardextra-1.jpg?v=1618332362"},{"product_id":"cary-prismatic-compass-c-1850","title":"Henry Barrow Greencard Prismatic Compass c.1845","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare example of an unusual variant of the Greencard-type prismatic compass c.1845, almost certainly made by either Henry Barrow or Cary. With a hand-drawn green compass card, bronzed-finish brass case, prism and vane sights, transit lock, and manual brake. Although there are no makers marks, this very uncommon type of compass is known to have been produced by only two makers, Henry Barrow (1790-1870), one of the finest instrument makers of the mid-19th century, and Cary of London. Barrow and Cary were associated, as Henry Barrow worked on the repair of Cary's famous 'Great Theodolite' and other instruments for Sir George Everest during the Survey of India in the 1830's.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass has a transit locking mechanism operated by a slide at the side of the case, and a card brake operated by a push-button. There is a folding slit sight on one side and a folding 'A' frame complete with thread sighting line and a 90 degree prism.\u003cbr\u003eThe compass card is graduated to eight points and to 360 degrees, with a jewelled pivot cap.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis partcular compass design is notable for the prism being located on the long sighting vane, rather than in the more conventional position of a housing attached to the edge of the compass case. A very well made, high quality instrument, this compass was undoubtedly the work of one of the best maker's of the period. A similar example, made by Henry Barrow, can be seen in the collection of the Royal Museums at Greenwich - https:\/\/www.rmg.co.uk\/collections\/objects\/rmgc-object-42637\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHenry Barrow (1790-1870):\u003c\/strong\u003e was one of the finest British scientific instrument makers of his time. He may have been apprenticed to George Dollond or Edward Troughton, as he is known to have worked for both of them before 1829. From 1830-1839 he was Mathematical Instrument Maker to the Surveyor of India, working very closely with Sir George Everest, maintaining the complex scientific instruments that were vital to the work of the Great Survey of India. After returning to England, Barrow took over the business of Thomas Chales Robinson at Devonshire Street, London from 1842. From 1845-c.1860 he traded as H. Barrow \u0026amp; Co. from premises at 26 Oxenden Street, London. He is known to have produced compasses, theodolites, and other scientific instruments during this period, supplying them to both the East India Company and the Great Survey of India. He also made compasses for the Admiralty, some of which were used in Arctic expeditions during the 1840s. During his time with The Great Survey, Sir George Everest had praised Barrow's work on the Cary Great Theodolite: 'I must do the artist (Barrow) the justice to say that for excellence of workmanship, accuracy of division, steadiness, regularity, and glibness of motion, and the general elegance and nice fitting of all its parts, not only were my expectations exceeded but I really think it is as a whole as unrivalled in the world as it is unique.' Henry Barrow was made a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society in 1849, and retired around 1860. His long career had made him a wealthy man, and he left an estate valued at more than £65,000.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCary of London:\u003c\/strong\u003e William Cary (1759-1825) produced numerous scientific instruments, including mechanical calculators, measuring instruments, telescopes, microscopes, compasses, and survey equipment. William had three brothers, one of whom, John, was a map maker who worked with him. Cary had learned the skills of instrument making as an apprentice of Jesse Ramsden (1735-1800). After William's death in 1825, the firm was taken over by Charles Gould, who many have trained under Cary. The company continued trading for almost 100 years, being run by various members of the Gould family, including Chalotte Hyde Gould (c.1797-1865). They became well known as retailers of globes and other scientific and mathematical instruments. Around the time of the first world war Cary were trading from premises at 7 Pall Mall, London.\u003cspan style=\"caret-color: #555555; color: #555555; font-family: Geneva, Arial, Helvetica, Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: inherit; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, and full working order. The compass finds North very well. The glass, sighting vane, and prism are all in very good condition. The view of the card through the prism is excellent. The compass card is in very good condition. Both the manual brake and transit lock are working perfectly. There is minor wear to the original bronzed finish of the brass case.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 100mm diameter, case 18mm, sights (height above glass) 85mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40375639867543,"sku":"","price":575.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/CaryGreencardCompass-23.jpg?v=1709719134"},{"product_id":"groves-barker-pocket-compass-c-1848","title":"Groves \u0026 Barker Pocket Compass c.1848","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn extremely rare Groves \u0026amp; Barker early Victorian pocket compass, dating from c.1848. The compass is clearly signed on the card with the Groves \u0026amp; Barker name. This distinctive compass card design was used by Francis Barker for many years during the Victorian era, but compasses produced during his partnership with Richard Groves are very rare. They had both been apprenticed to the firm of J \u0026amp; G Simms in the latter part of the Georgian period, before going into business together in 1848. The compass has a brass box and lid, jewelled pivot, transit lock, and hand-drawn paper compass card.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North well. The brass case is in very good condition, with some of the original lacquered finish still present inside the lid. The glass is in very good condition. The hand drawn paper compass card is in very good condition. The lid fits very well. The transit lock is in working order.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 37mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGroves \u0026amp; Barker\u003c\/strong\u003e: the partnership between Francis Barker (1819-1875) and Richard Groves (1821-1911) was established in London in 1848. Both had started out working for the scientific instrument makers J \u0026amp; G Simms of Hatton Garden. Francis left to set up his own company, and soon afterwards also went into business at 16 Market Street with his friend Richard Groves, producing sundials and maritime compasses. The partnership was dissolved in August 1865. Francis Barker went on to become one of the most prolific scientific instrument maker's of the 19th century, and Richard Groves outlived his former partner and was still listed as a surveying instrument maker in 1902.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker (1819-1875)\u003c\/strong\u003e went on to have a very successful career, producing a wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-Optics. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMuch of the above information is from Paul Crepel's excellent book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e. For more information on the Groves \u0026amp; Barker story, go to the trademarklondon.com website. I am also indebted to Leszek Zietara for further information about Richard Groves.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40781542981783,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/GrovesandBarkercompass-30.jpg?v=1629469806"},{"product_id":"silver-singers-patent-pocket-compass-1864","title":"Silver Singer's Patent Pocket Compass (1864)","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn extremely rare and beautifully made solid silver Singer's Patent pocket compass, dating from 1864. The compass is clearly marked on the mother of pearl card 'Singer's Patent, 2632'. Singer's patent lapsed in 1868, and no compasses made after that date carried a 'Singer's Patent' serial number. The case has the maker's mark of Samuel Freeman, a case maker who worked in Trafalgar Street, London from 1862 - c.1880. Although the compass card is unsigned, its style and lettering are almost identical to one made by Groves \u0026amp; Barker in the 1860's, and this compass may possibly have also been made by them. It was certainly made by one of the best maker's of the time. The compass has a silver hunter case, hallmarked for London 1864, jewelled pivot, and hand-painted mother of pearl compass card.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North well. The hallmarked silver case is in very good condition. The glass is in very good condition, with just some M.O.P. dust under the glass. The hand-painted mother of pearl compass card is in very good condition, and marked 'Singer's Patent, 2632'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 43mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSinger's Patent:\u003c\/strong\u003e Samuel Berry Singer (1796-c.1875)\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003ewas a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. This distinctive high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eGroves \u0026amp; Barker\u003c\/strong\u003e: the partnership between Francis Barker (1819-1875) and Richard Groves (1821-1911) was established in London in 1848. Both had started out working for the scientific instrument makers J \u0026amp; G Simms of Hatton Garden. Francis left to set up his own company, and soon afterwards also went into business at 16 Market Street with his friend Richard Groves, producing sundials and maritime compasses. The partnership was dissolved in August 1865. Francis Barker went on to become one of the most prolific scientific instrument maker's of the 19th century, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. Richard Groves outlived his former partner and was still listed as a surveying instrument maker in 1902.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMuch of the above information is from Paul Crepel's excellent book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e. For more information on the Groves \u0026amp; Barker story, go to the trademarklondon.com website. I am also indebted to Leszek Zietara for further information about Richard Groves.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":40896328138903,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/SilverSingersCompass-20.jpg?v=1630535974"},{"product_id":"harris-co-georgian-pocket-compass-c-18xx","title":"Harris \u0026 Co. Georgian Pocket Compass c.1815","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare Georgian pocket compass, made by Harris \u0026amp; Co., 50 Holborn, London, dating from c.1815. With a hand-drawn, floating, paper compass card of a typically elaborate Georgian style. It has a brass case and jewelled pivot. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well. A beautiful, very high quality compass, from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Harris \u0026amp; Co:\u003c\/strong\u003e William Harris (1781-1841) was an optical and scientific instrument maker, working from 50 Holborn, London at the start of the 19th century, from c.1800 - 1839. Harris had worked for Sir David Brewster in Edinburgh until about 1800, then began to produce instruments under his own name. Around 1800 he opened premises in London at 50 Holborn. In 1813 the business became known as William Harris \u0026amp; Company, when his eldest son, also William (1799-1839), joined the company. The company trade card advertised that they were manufacturers of optical, mathematical and philosophical instruments 'by His Majesty's Letters Patent'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1820 the company entered into a short term partnership with W. Campbell to sell scientific instruments in Hamburg. Campbell was an optician in his own right, and by 1831 the company at the Hamburg address - Bey dem Rathhause No. 26 - had become known as W. Campbell \u0026amp; Co.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1840 Harris \u0026amp; Co. was renamed William Harris \u0026amp; Son. They exhibited at the 1851 Great Exhibition in London, where their stand featured 'barometers, thermometers, and telescopes for use on land, at sea, or for astronomy'. The company appears to have ceased trading by 1855, as another company, Keyzor \u0026amp; Co., had taken over the premises at 50 Holborn in January of that year.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition, and excellent working order. The compass finds North very well. With just the normal signs of age, a few marks, and some minor wear to the case. The compass card and glass are in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 55mm diameter (72mm inc. bow)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41225115041943,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Harriscompass-24.jpg?v=1634657749"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-captain-dixons-military-compass-c-1900","title":"J. H. Steward Captain Dixon's Military Compass c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare J. H. Steward 'Captain Dixons' Patent Military Compass. dating from c.1900, the compass is in lovely, original condition, featuring a blackened or oxidised finish brass case with hand painted glass viewing windows, blued needle and jewelled pivot. The compass card is signed by J. H. Steward, and marked 'Captain Dixons Military Compass, No. 13'. It comes complete with its original fitted leather case. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis is a 'Trough' or 'Plane Table' compass, a type of instrument first used in the early 19th century, and which saw extensive use during WW1. According to compassmuseum, 'A trough compass consists of a long, narrow rectangular box, covered with glass. Inside the box, at its centre, there is a magnetic needle resting on the pivot. At the extremities of the trough compass, there are (sometimes but not always) graduated scales with zero at the centre and degree markings on either side of the zero line. The trough compass is used for marking the magnetic north line on the drawing sheet of the plane table. In this case, the magnetic needle points to 0° - 0° of the graduated scale and a line drawn parallel to the edge of the trough compass is along the magnetic meridian. A trough compass is also used to orient the plane table with respect to the magnetic meridian'. During WW1 this type of compass was used for artillery work. A later example of the Dixon's Military compass can be seen at compassmuseum.com.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJ. H. Steward Ltd\u003c\/strong\u003e: James Henry Steward (1817-1896) established his business in London in 1852 as a maker and retailer of optical, scientific, military and surveying instruments. J.H. Steward was the head optician of the company and had businesses at 406 Strand, 457 West Strand and 54 Cornhill in London. In the mid 1800s he became the optician to Her Majesty's Government and the National Rifle, and National Artillery Associations. James Henry Steward died in 1896. J. H. Steward Ltd was incorporated in 1912 and continued in business in London until 1973. The main London office was sold in 1971, and from 1971-1973 the company rented premises in Catherine Street. All the remaining stock and long serving staff member George Goble (c.1916-1975) were moved to Catherine Street. The business finally moved to 154a Church Road, Hove, Sussex in 1973, before finally ceasing trading in 1975.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North very well. The original blackened finish of the case is in very good condition. The glass windows and needle are in very good condition. The leather case is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e L: 70mm x W: 35xmm x H: 13mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41273504432279,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/CaptainDixonsCompass-16.jpg?v=1635357623"},{"product_id":"cary-rgs-pocket-explorers-compass-c-1900","title":"Cary 'RGS' Explorers Compass c.1900","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #555555; color: #555555; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit; font-size: inherit;\"\u003eA \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son ‘RGS’ type pocket compass, dating from c.1900. The compass card is marked with the retailers details: \u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e‘Cary, London’\u003c\/b\u003e. \u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; line-height: 24px;\" data-mce-style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; line-height: 24px;\"\u003eThe compass has a nickel plated brass hunter case, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\" data-mce-style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eand an aluminium card with a jewelled pivot. The card is hand painted in black, with the four cardinal points painted in red on the underside of the glass. The compass has an automatic transit lock, operated when the lid is closed. \u003c\/span\u003eThis is a well documented Barker design, which was supplied unsigned by the maker to Cary and several other well known London retailers (including J. H. Steward). The retailer would then add their own details to the compass card. Cary supplied scientific instruments such as this to explorers and military officers, and the company provided the compasses used by \u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eErnest Shackleton\u003c\/b\u003e and his team during the celebrated \u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e1907-1909 British Antarctic Expedition\u003c\/b\u003e. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eOne of the Cary compasses used during the 1907-1909 expedition can be seen in a photographic plate facing p.342 of Volume Two of \u003ci style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eThe Heart of the Antarctic\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e, Shackleton’s classic account of the expedition (\u003cem\u003esee photo\u003c\/em\u003e). Shackleton took two Cary pocket compasses of this type with him on the expedition, one of which returned to the antarctic in 2008, carried by the explorer Henry Worsley, during the Shackleton Centenary Expedition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit; font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003eDating from c.1900-1910, this type of compass featured in many Barker catalogues and had been in production since the late 19th century, although it was not \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eregistered by the company until 1903.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e In the Barker catalogue for 1907 this design was described as the ‘R.G.S. Pattern’.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit; font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e(Further details of this type of compass can be found in: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e by Paul Crespel, and at the trademarklondon.com website. It is also featured on p.54-5 of \u003ci style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/i\u003e (Schiffer, 2010) by Kornelia Takacs)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit; font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit; font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North well. The nickel plated brass case is in very good condition, with some mnor wear to the plating. The compass card and glass are in very good condition. The transit lock is fully functional.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eDimensions: 50mm diameter (75mm inc. loop)\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit; font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eCary of London: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eWilliam Cary (1759–1825) was an English scientific-instrument maker. He produced numerous scientific instruments including mechanical calculators, measuring instruments, telescopes, microscopes, navigation and survey equipment. William Cary had three brothers, the eldest George (c.1753 - 1830) was a haberdasher while the second brother John, was a mapmaker who also worked with William and the last, Francis (c.1756 - 1836) was an engraver. Cary learnt the skills for producing instruments as an apprentice of Jesse Ramsdan (1735-1800). After his death in 1825, the firm was taken over by Charles Gould, who may have trained briefly under William Cary. The company continued trading for almost 100 years, being run by various members of the Gould family, including Charlotte Hyde Gould (c.1797-1865). They became well \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eknown as retailers of globes and other scientific and mathematical instruments. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eAround 1900 Cary were trading from premises at 7 Pall Mall, London, their trade card describing the company as 'Opticians and Scientific Instrument Makers to the Admiralty'.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit; font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of comp\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003easses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e, Cary, and J. H. Steward. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41405534699671,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Shackletonheartcompass-1_1.jpg?v=1637842680"},{"product_id":"gilbert-prismatic-compass-c-1815","title":"Gilbert Patent Prismatic Compass c.1815","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare Gilbert Patent prismatic compass, made in London c.1815. The compass card is marked 'Gilbert Patent, London'. The Gilbert family were well known scientific instrument makers in London from the middle of the 18th century to the late 1830's, working first from premises at Tower Hill, and later from Leadenhall Street. Several generations of the family were involved in the business, and this compass was made during the period the company was run by the brothers William and Thomas Gilbert, who worked together at 148 Leadenhall Street from around 1813 to 1828.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is a variation of the Schmalcalder type, with a hand-drawn green compass card, a very unusual two piece, screw-threaded, brass case, a prism with coloured filters, and vane sights with a sliding black mirror. Another most unusual feature of this compass is the transit lock, which is operated by a spring loaded bearing that is engaged when the two parts of the case are screwed together. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Gilbert Family: \u003c\/strong\u003eDuring\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003ethe 18th and early 19th centuries the Gilbert family were one of the most highly respected London scientific instrument makers. The first member of the family dynasty to establish himself in the business was John Gilbert Snr, who started out as an apprentice in 1709 and began trading under his own name in 1716. His son, also John Gilbert, followed him into the business, which traded as Gilbert \u0026amp; Son in the 1740s. In turn, his sons John and William entered the business in the 1760s, with William also working as an apprentice to the Dollond family. William took over the business in the 1770s. After a complex series of partnerships with other makers in the late 18th century, the company became known as Gilbert \u0026amp; Sons around 1806, when William's sons (William and Thomas) entered the business. When the elder William Gilbert died in 1819 the company name changed again to W \u0026amp; T Gilbert, and they were appointed as the main supplier of instruments to the East India Company. They also supplied instruments to the Admiralty. Despite these lucrative contracts, the company went bankrupt in 1828. The Gilberts continued trading through the 1830s, continuing to supply the East India Company until 1838. By 1845 the company had ceased trading, most probably as a result of the death of William Gilbert. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003eThe above information is based on the excellent profile of the Gilbert family which can be found at jasonclarkantiques.co.uk, along with much other fascinating information on rare scientific instruments and their makers\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCharles Augustus Schmalcalder (1781-1843)\u003c\/strong\u003e was one of the most significant figures in the development of the compass. His patent design of 1812, which introduced the idea of using an optical prism, combined with a sighting vane, to improve accuracy when taking bearings, is still in use today. Schmalcalder's innovation was a development of the work of Henry Kater. In 1811 Kater developed a design using a mirror and sighting vane. His design was then manufactured by Thomas Jones. Schmalcalder, who also knew Thomas Jones, is believed to have seen Kater's new compass at Jones' premises, and this gave him the idea for his own prismatic version. Schmalcalder moved swiftly to have prototypes of his own design made by Jones, which he then went on to patent. Between 1812 and 1826 (when the patent expired) Schmalcalder's Patent compasses were manufactured by third party makers, like Thomas Jones, and sold from Schmalcalder's premises, first at 82 The Strand, London (1810-1826), and later from 399 The Strand, London. Schmalcalder's design was also used uncredited by many other makers, such as Simms, Barker, Gilbert, Jones, and Troughton.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003eMuch of the above information on Schmalcalder is based on the extensive research and expert knowledge of Paul Crespel at trademarklondon.com, who has always been very generous with his helpful and invaluable advice. For more information on Schmalcalder, Kater and the development of the early prismatic compass, see his excellent trademarklondon.com website\u003c\/em\u003e).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition, and good working order. The compass finds North well. There is some wear to the original finish of the brass case. The two sections of the case screw together correctly. The glass, sighting vane, filters, and prism are all in good condition. The compass card is in good condition, with some wear to the edges. The transit lock is working well.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 79mm diameter, 35mm height\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41476126965911,"sku":"","price":575.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/GilbertCompass-30.jpg?v=1639132925"},{"product_id":"henry-barrow-admiralty-standard-compass-c-1845","title":"Henry Barrow \u0026 Co. Admiralty Standard Compass c.1845","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Admiralty standard prismatic compass, made c.1845, by Henry Barrow \u0026amp; Co. With a hand-drawn compass card, bronzed-finish brass case, prism and vane sights, transit lock, and manual brake. The compass card is signed ' Henry Barrow \u0026amp; Co., 26 Oxendon Street, London'. The Admiralty compass was produced by Henry Barrow (1790-1870), one of the finest instrument makers of the mid-19th century\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass has a screw-down transit locking mechanism, operated by a threaded screw which engages with a lever that protrudes slightly from the side of the case. When the transit lock screw is disengaged, this lever can also be used as a manual brake. There is a folding prism (with coloured filters) on one side of the case and a folding sighting vane complete with mirror on the opposite side. The compass card is graduated to 16 points and to 360 degrees, with a jewelled pivot cap. The base has a screw-threaded mounting for attaching the compass to a tripod or other fixed mounting.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA very well made, high quality instrument, this compass is a fine example of the work of one of the best maker's of the period. Similar examples, and various other compasses made by Henry Barrow, can be seen in the collection of the Royal Museums at Greenwich - https:\/\/www.rmg.co.uk\/collections\/objects\/rmgc-object-7185 and in the collection of the sciencemuseumgroup.org.uk\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHenry Barrow (1790-1870):\u003c\/strong\u003e was one of the finest British scientific instrument makers of his time. He may have been apprenticed to George Dollond or Edward Troughton, as he is known to have worked for both of them before 1829. From 1830-1839 he was Mathematical Instrument Maker to the Surveyor of India, working very closely with Sir George Everest, maintaining the complex scientific instruments that were vital to the work of the Great Survey of India. After returning to England, Barrow took over the business of Thomas Charles Robinson at Devonshire Street, London from 1842. From 1845 - c.1860 he traded as H. Barrow \u0026amp; Co. from premises at 26 Oxendon Street, London. He is known to have produced compasses, theodolites, and other scientific instruments during this period, supplying them to both the East India Company and the Great Survey of India. He also made compasses for the Admiralty, some of which were used in Arctic expeditions during the 1840s. During his time with The Great Survey, Sir George Everest had praised Barrow's work on the Cary Great Theodolite: 'I must do the artist (Barrow) the justice to say that for excellence of workmanship, accuracy of division, steadiness, regularity, and glibness of motion, and the general elegance and nice fitting of all its parts, not only were my expectations exceeded but I really think it is as a whole as unrivalled in the world as it is unique.' Henry Barrow was made a Fellow of the Royal Astronomical Society in 1849, and retired around 1860. His long career had made him a wealthy man, and he left an estate valued at more than £65,000.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition, and full working order. The compass finds North very well. The glass, sighting vane, and prism are all in good condition. The compass card is in good condition, with some marks. Both the manual brake and transit lock are working perfectly. There is some wear and marking to the original bronzed finish of the brass case and the frame of the folding sight.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 135mm diameter, case height 30mm, sights (ht. above glass) 100mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41745495916695,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barrowadmiraltycompass-21.jpg?v=1644602385"},{"product_id":"stanley-artillery-compass-c-1880","title":"W. F. Stanley Prismatic Compass c.1880","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very fine example of a W. F. Stanley prismatic survey or artillery compass, dating from c.1880. This compass is in excellent condition, featuring a blackened or oxidised finish brass case with a beautifully engraved aluminium compass card. In 1861 W. F. Stanley patented a number of improvements in the use of aluminium in the manufacture of mathematical and scientific instruments. He was one of the first to produce this type of cutaway aluminium compass card. The compass has a transit lock operated when the sights are folded down, and red and green coloured filters at the prism. It is signed on the lid by 'Stanley, Great Turnstile, Holborn, London', and is also signed on the compass card 'Stanley, London'. This type of compass was often used for military survey and artillery work.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWilliam Ford Stanley\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e (1829 - 1909):\u003c\/strong\u003e was a British inventor with 78 patents filed in both the United Kingdom and the USA. He was an engineer who designed and made precision drawing and mathematical instruments, as well as surveying instruments and telescopes, manufactured by his company, William Ford Stanley and Co. Ltd. Stanley was a skilled architect who designed and founded the UK's first Trades School. He was also a noted philanthropist, who gave over £80,000 to education projects during the last 15 years of his life. When he died, most of his estate, valued at £59,000, was bequeathed to trade schools and students in south London, and he left one of his houses to be used as a children's home. Stanley was a member of several professional bodies and societies, including the Royal Society of Arts, Royal Meteorological Society, and Royal Astronomical Association. Besides these activities, he was a painter, musician and photographer, as well as an author of a variety of publications, including plays, books for children, and political treatises.\n\u003cp\u003eStanley started his business in 1854 with just £100, making mathematical and drawing instruments at 3 Great Turnstile, Holborn, London. Stanley produced a 'Panoptic Stereoscope' in 1855, which was financially successful, allowing him to expand his business with additional shops at 3–4 Great Turnstile and 286 High Holborn. He did not patent the Panoptic, so it was soon copied around the world, but he had sold enough to provide the capital required to manufacture scientific instruments.\u003csup id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch4_8-5\" class=\"reference\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eStanley brought out the first catalogue of his products in 1864.\u003csup id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch4_8-6\" class=\"reference\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eBy the fifth edition, Stanley was able to list important customers such as several government departments, the Army, Royal Navy, railway companies at home and abroad, and London University. From 1865, he worked on improving surveying instruments, including designing a new type of theodolite.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eStanley designed and set up a new factory in 1875 (called \u003ci\u003eThe Stanley Works\u003c\/i\u003e, it was listed in the 1876 Croydon Directories as \u003ci\u003eStanley Mathematical Instruments\u003c\/i\u003e) in Belgrave Road, London, which produced a variety of instruments for civil, military, and mining engineers, prospectors and explorers, architects, meteorologists and artists. The firm finally moved out of the factory in the 1920s. By 1881, Stanley was employing 80 people and producing 3,000 technical items, as detailed in his catalogue.\u003csup id=\"cite_ref-cg-legacy_9-3\" class=\"reference\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eIn 1885, Stanley was awarded a gold medal at the International Inventors Exhibition at Wembley. The rapid growth of his business led to the opening of branches at Lincoln's Inn, London Bridge, and South Norwood. The catalogue for 1891 refers to the company having 17 branches, with over 130 workmen. By the start of the 20th century the company was reputed to be the largest instrument maker in the world. The company traded at Great Turnstile until 1914, then at 286 High Holborn until 1939, continuing at various addresses in London until finally being dissolved in 2001.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in excellent condition, full working order and finds North very well. The original blackened finish of the case is in excellent condition. The glass, prism, sights, filters, and compass card are in excellent condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 70mm diameter (90mm inc. prism), 20mm depth\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41778980028567,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Stanleysurveycompass-11.jpg?v=1645540409"},{"product_id":"casartelli-manchester-singers-patent-compass-c-1868","title":"Casartelli, Manchester, Singer's Patent Compass c.1868","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass box Singer's Patent pocket compass, made by Casartelli of Manchester, c.1868. The lack of a serial number on the compass card means that the compass was made after Singer's patent expired in 1868. The compass has a brass case, with a push-fit lid, a mother of pearl card, and a jewelled pivot. The mother of pearl compass card is hand painted in the classic Singer's design, and signed 'Casartelli, 43 Market Street, Manchester'. The compass has a transit lock mechanism, but this is not working.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJoseph Louis Casartelli (1822-1900):\u003c\/strong\u003e Casartelli was a maker scientific-instrument maker, born in Tavernario, Italy in 1822. In 1834 the family emigrated to Liverpool, joining Luigi Casartelli (also known as Louis Casartelli) in his scientific instrument business, at 20 Duke Street, Liverpool, making barometers and thermometers. The young Casartelli may have served his apprenticeship with him. By 1845, Joseph and his uncle, Antonio Giovanni, had taken over Louis' business. The two continued in partnership as opticians and barometer and thermometer makers and glass-blowers for the next six years, as Anthony and Joseph Casartelli. In 1851 Joseph moved to Manchester and established himself as a maker of mechanical and optical equipment. Joseph purchased the Ronchetti instrument making business at 43 Market Street, Manchester, and this became Casartelli \u0026amp; Son. Casartelli expanded the business to produce high-quality optical, surveying, textile, and engineering instruments, including microscopes, telescopes, cameras and other optical devices. He also operated a photographic studio in Manchester. Casartelli had a special interest in steam engines and boilers, taking out seven patents on a variety of projects. After 1896, the company was known as J. Casartelli and Son.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and good working order. The compass finds north well. The brass case and lid are in good condition, with general signs of use, and some wear and marks to the original lacquered finish. The hand-painted mother of pearl card is in very good condition. The transit lock does not lock the compass card, but this has no other effect on the function of the compass. The glass is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 37mm (Diameter) x 15mm (H)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41824510148759,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Casartellicompass-25.jpg?v=1646748792"},{"product_id":"richard-oliver-silver-pocket-compass-1856","title":"Richard Oliver Silver Pocket Compass (1856)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare and beautifully made sterling silver early Victorian pocket compass, dating from 1856. The compass has a silver hunter case, hallmarked for London 1856, English bar needle, jewelled pivot, and hand-painted Georgian style enamel compass card. The case has the maker's mark of Richard Oliver and John Edwards, case makers who worked in Galway Street, London from 1846 - 1859. Richard James Oliver was first recorded as working in Galway Street in 1845. Oliver was in partnership at this address with John Edwards and they traded as Oliver and Edwards. The maker's mark 'RO' over 'JE' was first registered at the London Assay Office in 1846. When the partnership was dissolved in 1859, Richard Oliver continued in business at the same address until 1876, when he moved to 1 Northampton Square, Clerkenwell. In 1895 he relocated to 31 Wynyatt Street, Clerkenwell. From 1903 the business was carried on by his son Albert Thomas Oliver. Oliver's business never used modern industrial techniques or machines, continuing to make cases by hand in the old-fashioned way, until the business eventually closed in 1970. The tools and techniques used by the Olivers were a relic of the Georgian era, and they would have been familiar to watch case makers of the eighteenth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(The above information on Richard Oliver is from the very interesting website: www.vintagewatchstraps.com)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North well. The hallmarked silver case is in very good condition. The glass is in very good condition. The enamel compass card is in very good condition, with a minor hairline crack near the 'S' marker.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 35mm diameter (50mm inc. loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42090939285655,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/SilverHumtercompass-15.jpg?v=1652708811"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-son-silver-pocket-compass-1897","title":"Francis Barker \u0026 Son Silver Pocket Compass (1897)","description":"\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #555555; color: #555555; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003eA rare sterling silver Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son Singer’s Patent pocket compass, made at the end of the Victorian era, and hallmarked for London, 1897. The case also has the Francis Barker maker's mark 'F.B. \u0026amp; Sn’. The compass has a sterling silver case, and a hand-painted Singer’s Patent type mother of pearl compass card. The silver case has fine engine-turned or 'guilloché' pattern decorations to the rear.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #555555; color: #555555; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son:\u003c\/b\u003e were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-Optics. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #555555; color: #555555; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eSamuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) \u003c\/b\u003ewas a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #555555; color: #555555; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/b\u003e\u003cbr style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: #555555; color: #555555; font-family: -apple-system, BlinkMacSystemFont, 'Segoe UI', Roboto, 'Fira Sans', 'Droid Sans', 'Helvetica Neue', Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: inherit; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-weight: inherit; letter-spacing: normal; orphans: auto; text-align: start; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: auto; word-spacing: 0px; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; text-decoration: none;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit; line-height: 24px; color: #808080;\"\u003eThe compass is in good condition and full working order. The silver case is in good condition, with minor signs of wear. The mother of pearl compass card is in good condition, with some minor wear to the hand painted finish. The hallmarks and maker's mark are clear and in very good condition. The compass finds North very well.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px; color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 30mm diameter, (45mm inc. loop), \u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eheight: 8mm\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42094571552919,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barkersmallsilver-15.jpg?v=1652718157"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/collections\/19th_c_collection_pic_-_1_4.jpg?v=1490398934","url":"https:\/\/www.compasslibrary.com\/en-be\/collections\/19th-century.oembed?page=9","provider":"Compass Library","version":"1.0","type":"link"}