{"title":"Scientific Instruments","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"vintage-francis-barker-altimeter-barometer","title":"Vintage English Altimeter Barometer","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn English-made pocket altimeter-barometer, probably intended for military use and dating from the 1970s or 1980s. Quite large (80mm diameter) for a pocket barometer, in good working order, complete with its original leather case. Although not signed by Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son Ltd, this altimeter is in the style of instruments made by Barker in the 1970s and 1980s. There is a little wear to the bezel ring, but otherwise the altimeter and leather case are in excellent condition.\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 some cosmetic wear and marks to the rotating bezel. The leather case is in very good condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cstrong\u003ePlease note:\u003c\/strong\u003e this is a vintage instrument and should not be relied upon to give an exact reading, such as you might get from a modern digital instrument. However, it has been tested recently and is reading very accurately).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e80mm diameter (115mm including loop)\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\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":373643881,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_altimeter_-_19.jpg?v=1581965949"},{"product_id":"lawrence-mayo-henri-chatelain-rotary-map-measurer-c-1900","title":"Lawrence \u0026 Mayo Henri Chatelain Rotary Map Measurer c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eA very nice example of a 'HC' (Henri Chatelain) map measurer, retailed by Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo of London. 29mm in diameter, this is a very small and beautifully made instrument for measuring distances on maps (Francis Barker made similar instruments to these at around the same time, their version was known as 'The Rotameter'). The inner and outer dials read to 25 feet and twelve inches respectively. The wheel is graduated in 1\/32 inches. Although primarily intended for use with maps, this instrument can also be used to measure distances on any flat surface, up to a maximum of 25 feet. Dating from the early 20th century, this map measurer was made in France and is marked on the back of the case: 'France, Depose HC, Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo, London'. Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo were founded in 1877 in London as opticians and makers of scientific instruments. By 1925 they had headquarters in New Oxford Street, London and showrooms all over the British Empire, from Alexandria to Bombay. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eIn very good condition and full working order.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 29mm diameter\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1327346120,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Map_measure7.jpg?v=1491910717"},{"product_id":"aston-mander-air-ministry-parallel-ruler","title":"Aston \u0026 Mander Air Ministry Parallel Ruler","description":"\u003cp\u003eA WW2 RAF Air MInistry parallel ruler. Marked 'Captain Field's Improved Parallel', it would have been used by RAF naviagtors and aircrew. It was made by Aston \u0026amp; Mander of London, who supplied navigational and other instruments to the British armed forces in both world wars.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCaptain Field's Improved Parallel Rule:\u003c\/strong\u003e The parallel ruler was invented around 1584 by Fabrizio Mordente, but it was not in common use until the 18th century. In the 19th century, Captain William Andrew Field (1796 – 1871) improved the traditional design of parallel ruler by adding a protractor style scale to the upper edge of one rule, and compass points to the opposing edge, which made reading bearings easier. These rulers were made of boxwood, ebony or ivory, and the instrument usually had two brass links.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAston \u0026amp; Mander:\u003c\/strong\u003e were established in London in 1779 at Old Compton St, Soho. They were manufacturers, wholesalers and exporters of mathematical drawing, surveying and scientific instruments. they specialised in tailors' squares, mathematical scales, rules, tailors' and cloth merchants' tools; anthropological and height measuring instruments, and scholastic geometrical sets and appliances.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe ruler is in good original condition and full working order. There is some minor wear to the original brass finish of the hinges.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 460mm x 65mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34182162824,"sku":"","price":39.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Parallel_-_2.jpg?v=1493810815"},{"product_id":"antique-henri-chatelain-rotary-map-measurer-c-1900","title":"Antique Henri Chatelain Rotary Map Measurer c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eA rare example of a 'HC' (Henri Chatelain) twin dial map measurer, retailed by Alexander of Manchester. 29mm in diameter, this is a well made instrument for measuring lengths or distances on maps (Francis Barker made similar instruments to these at around the same time, their version was known as 'The Rotameter'). The main dial is calibrated in inches and reads from zero to 48 inches. The subsidiary dial is calibrated in 'Lines' and reads from zero to 16. It has a black handle, which is screw threaded and removable. Although probably mainly intended for use with maps, this instrument can also be used to measure distances on any flat surface. Dating from the late 19th or early 20th century, this instrument was made in France and is marked on the back of the case: 'Made in France, Depose HC'. It is also signed by the retailer, Alexander of Manchester. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eIn very good condition and full working order.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm (main dial: 29mm diameter), length including handle: 115mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46053516296,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Opisometer_black_-_3.jpg?v=1768844654"},{"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":"lieutenant-charles-lutyens-cavalry-sketching-board","title":"Lieutenant Charles Lutyens Sketching Board Compass (1914)","description":"A WW1 Cavalry Sketching board, made by Houghton's Ltd of London in 1914. Various other designs of Cavalry sketching board were being produced around this time, including those by Lt-Col. Willoughby Verner, J. H. Steward, and Aston \u0026amp; Mander. The board is well made, of wood and brass, and features an integrated clinometer and swivelling leather wrist strap on the rear. This Sketching board belonged to \u003cstrong\u003eLieutenant Charles John Lionel Lutyens\u003c\/strong\u003e, the nephew of the celebrated Edwardian architect \u003cstrong\u003eSir Edwin Landseer Lutyens\u003c\/strong\u003e. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLieutenant C. J. L. Lutyens\u003c\/strong\u003e was educated at Rugby School, leaving at the end of 1914 to enter the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich. He was commissioned in the Royal Field Artillery in October 1915, went straight out to France, and was attached to the Royal Horse Artillery. He was invalided home in March 1916, but returned to the front in January 1917. In April Lt. Lutyens was severly wounded and was hospitalised in England. He returned to France once again on 9th September 1917, joining ‘A’ Battery of the 156th Brigade. On October 3rd, while controlling the fire of his battery, a shell landed almost at his feet. Very badly wounded, he died on the way to the first aid post. He was 21 years old. One of his fellow officers wrote that he was admired by everyone in his battery, “He was an exceptionally capable officer, and one of the most courageous it has ever been my good fortune to have known.” \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Sketching board comes with the rare volume five of \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eMemorials of Rugbeians who Fell in the Great War\u003c\/em\u003e (1919)\u003c\/strong\u003e which was privately printed for Rugby School by Philip Lee Warner and The Medici Society. Each volume contained the biographies and photographs of 100 old boys who were killed in the war. Volume Five covers the period May 3rd to December 3rd 1917, and includes the biography and photograph of Lieutenant Charles Lutyens who died on October 3rd. The book is lavishly produced, printed on wire laid paper, with excellent tipped in photographs. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e(Blue boards, cloth spine, unpaginated, but approx 300 pages, size: 205mm x 270mm) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Cavalry Sketching Board:\u003c\/strong\u003e was originally designed by Colonel W. H. Richards, who taught military surveying at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst c.1880. The board was improved by Major Willoughby Verner who was also briefly Professor of Topography at Sandhurst. Verner patented his own improvements in 1887 and 1891 and the board became known as Verner's. W. J. Bosworth patented further improvements in 1897, and versions of the board remained in use until around 1930. They were produced by several scientific instrument makers, including J. H. Steward, Aston \u0026amp; Mander, and Houghton’s Ltd.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCavalry Sketching Boards were designed to be strapped to the arm of an officer or cavalryman on the bridle arm. The board was attached to the arm by a leather strap with a swivel joint. This enabled the user to twist the whole board on their arm to align the compass accurately. The board incorporated a compass for taking bearings, and the sketch was made on a paper roll which was wound around one of the side rollers. As a sketch was completed, the paper roll was advanced to supply more paper. During WW1 the sketching board was often used by the artillery, cavalry, and pilots and observers of the Royal Flying Corps to make sketches of enemy positions and trenches.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe sketching board, compass, and clinometer are in good condition and full working order. There are some marks and general signs of wear and use on the woodwork and rollers, and some wear to the original leather wrist strap. The lower edge of the integral clinometer on the back of the board is inscribed \u003cstrong\u003e‘C. J. L. Lutyens’\u003c\/strong\u003e. The book \u003cem\u003eMemorials of Rugbeians who Fell in the Great War\u003c\/em\u003e (Vol 5) is in very good condition, with some marks to the boards.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions : Board: 185mm x 245mm, Compass: 30mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7363562438708,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Lutyens_sketching_board_-_13.jpg?v=1521909920"},{"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":"antique-j-h-steward-surveyors-level","title":"Antique J. H. Steward Pocket Reflecting Sight Level","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn antique Pocket Reflecting Sight surveyors level made by J. H. Steward of London, probably c.1912. Sighting was carried out by looking through the eyepiece and viewing the reflection of the spirit level bubble in the internal mirror. Essentially, this is a simplified version of the Abney Level. The level is clearly marked 'J. H. Steward, 406 Strand, London'. The level comes with its original fitted leather 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\u003eIn good condition and full working order. With some cosmetic wear to the original blackened finish. The fitted leather case is in very good condition. The name and address of the original owner is written inside the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e105mm length (leather case: 120mm length)\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\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":13217438957620,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/J_H_Steward_level_-_8.jpg?v=1538578174"},{"product_id":"ww1-huet-french-artillery-compass","title":"WW1 Huet French Artillery Rangefinder Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is a rare and unusual French military rangefinder and compass instrument, made by Huet of Paris c.1911-1920, and used during WW1 by French artillery units. This type of instrument was known as a\u003ci\u003e Sitomètre\u003c\/i\u003e (or \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003esitogoniomètre\u003c\/span\u003e) in French and \u003ci\u003eSitometer\u003c\/i\u003e in Swiss German. The name comes from the French expression for elevation angle which is called \u003ci\u003eangle de site \u003c\/i\u003ewhile the azimuth angle is called \u003ci\u003eangle de gisement\u003c\/i\u003e. The angle of elevation of the target can be viewed through a small window when the case is held vertically, while the bearing from magnetic north (Decigrade scale) can be read through a separate window when the case is held horizontally.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe instrument has an aluminium case (with the serial no. 1413), containing the rangefinder or Sitometre elements and the compass. The case carries the maker's mark, 'Huet, Paris' and is also labelled 'Decigrades'. This term refers to a French military system of compass bearings. Around the time of the start of WW1, France was experimenting with the use of milliemes (6400 in a circle) for use with artillery sights instead of decigrades (4000 in a circle). Britain was also experimenting with milliemes, to replace degrees and minutes. 'Mils', as they became known, were adopted by France, although the earlier decigrade system also remained in use throughout World War I. The United States, which copied many French artillery practices, was one of many countries which also adopted the 'Mils' system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass itself is tiny (just 15mm diameter), but a very well made instrument, with a jewelled pivot and delicate needle. The rear of the case features a ruler marked in centimetres, and a scale intended to be used with 1\/80,000 scale French military maps.\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, full working order, and finds North well. The Sitometer\/Rangefinder is in good condition and working order, with all the viewing windows clear and the scales legible. The spirit level element is in good working order. The aluminium case is in good condition, with just the usual signs of wear and use. The original fitted leather case is in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e80mm length, 40mm width, 8mm depth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13804435537972,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Huet_-_7.jpg?v=1625521498"},{"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":"1917-antique-pince-nez-spectacles-case","title":"1917 Antique Pince-Nez Spectacles \u0026 Case","description":"\u003cp\u003eA set of antique pince nez reading glasses dating from 1917. In good working order. They are probably around +1 prescription strength. The frames appear to be rose gold plated. With their original case and 1917 dated receipt from Bishop's Opticians, 466 Holloway Road, London.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and full working order. The lenses are in good condition, with just a tiny blemish to the left lens at the top edge. The frames are in very good condition, with the spring working well. The case is worn at the edges. The original receipt is in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e95mm length (case: 110mm length)\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\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":14045096935476,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Glasses_-_14.jpg?v=1549529780"},{"product_id":"antique-georgian-or-victorian-pocket-telescope","title":"Antique Georgian or Victorian Pocket Telescope","description":"An antique 19th century three draw pocket nautical telescope, Georgian or Victorian. The telescope is brass, with the main section covered in a very finely worked braiding, probably \u003cstrong\u003eBaleen\u003c\/strong\u003e, with rope work end pieces. There is a sliding eyepiece cover. Both the front lens element and the eyepiece can easily be unscrewed if required.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe telescope is in good condition and good working order. The three draws all operate well, although the final one is a little looser than the other two. The optics are nice and clear, with no marks or fungus, producing a good image. There is a small blemish or chip to the edge of the front lens element (see photos), but this has no effect on the function of the telescope and cannot be seen when looking through the telescope. There is a sliding eyepiece cover which is working well.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLength (closed): 125mm\u003cbr\u003eLength (fully open): 365mm\u003cbr\u003eFront lens: 23mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\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":14299154022452,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Telescope_-_1.jpg?v=1551623560"},{"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":"vintage-west-german-pedometer-c-1960","title":"Vintage West German Pedometer c.1960","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eA West German ankle Pedometer, dating from c.1960. This instrument was made in Germany for the export market. It is in near mint condition, complete with original box, packaging, instruction leaflet, strap etc. It was described as 'absolutely new in both design and method of operation. The walked distance is indicated in miles by a pointer on the dial of the instrument'. It was intended to be fastened just above the ankle, and has four coloured scales relating to differwent pace length, ranging from 19 to 25 inches.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eIn unused, 'as new' condition. It looks like it has never been out of its box. Has been briefly tested and appears to be in good working order, but as a vintage item it's accuracy cannot be guaranteed. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 38mm ( diameter), Strap length: 280mm, \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32777082044555,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Pedometer-10.jpg?v=1585837069"},{"product_id":"henri-chatelain-rotary-map-measurer-case-c-1910","title":"Henri Chatelain Rotary Map Measurer \u0026 Case c.1910","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eAn antique 'HC' (Henri Chatelain) map measurer, dating from the early 20th century. 35mm in diameter, this is an instrument for measuring lengths or distances on maps (Francis Barker made similar instruments to these at around the same time, their version was known as 'The Rotameter'). The dial is calibrated in both inches to the mile and centimeteres to the kilometre. It has a nickel plated brass case, white dial, blued needle, and a screw threaded removable handle. Mainly intended for use with maps, this instrument can also be used to measure distances on any flat surface. This instrument was made in France for the British market and is marked on the back of the case: 'Depose HC'. It comes complete with its original leather case.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eIn very good condition and full working order. The leather case is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 35mm (diameter), length including handle: 118mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33110547955851,"sku":"","price":45.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Mpameasurer-2.jpg?v=1585574458"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-british-army-protractor-1935","title":"J. H. Steward British Army Protractor (1935)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare J. H. Steward military protractor, dating from 1935. The semi-circular celluloid protractor is in very good, original condition, and comes complete with its original card-backed envelope. It was posted direct from J. H. Steward on 29th August 1935 to a Major R. H. Wilson of Westbourne Terrace, London.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of military protractor was used by artillery and machine gun officers during WW1 and WW2. It is marked with various scales and has the 1915 dated Patent Number 11465. \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 protractor is in very good original condition. The envelope is in very good condition, with a few marks.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e L: 200mm x W: 120xmm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41566726979735,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/StewardProtractor-12.jpg?v=1761768696"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-military-compass-clinometer","title":"J. H. Steward Military Compass Clinometer (1915)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very fine example of a 1915 WW1 J. H. Steward Military Compass Clinometer, also known as an 'Angle of Sight Instrument'. This instrument was patented jointly by J. C. Asten and Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son Ltd in 1909 as the 'Patent Combined Altitude Instrument and Prismatic Compass'. (Barker had previously patented a similar prismatic compass and clinometer instrument in 1881). Dating from 1915, this compass is in museum condition, featuring a blackened or oxidised finish brass case with green compass card and white clinometer scale card. The compass case is signed by J. H. Steward, although it was very probably made by Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son, and retailed by Steward. The case is also marked 'Angle of Sight Instrument', serial No. 119, and has the British War Office 'broad arrow' stamp, denoting that it was official military issue, rather than an officer's private purchase item. During WW1 and WW2 this type of compass was used for artillery work. Further information can be found at trademarklondon.com (p.125 of the online edition of \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e) and 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 excellent, near mint condition, full working order and finds North very well. The clinometer is in full working order. The original blackened finish of the case is in excellent condition. The glass windows, prism, sights, and both compass and clinometer cards are in excellent condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 75mm diameter (100mm inc. prism), 20mm depth\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":41777050189975,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/StewardAngleofsightcompass-21.jpg?v=1645529924"},{"product_id":"c-w-dixey-travelling-thermometer-c-1845","title":"C. W. Dixey Travelling Thermometer c.1845","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; font-weight: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit;\"\u003eAn antique C. W. Dixey of New Bond Street, London leather cased travelling thermometer, dating from c.1845. In lovely condition and full working order. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eComplete with its original fitted case. It also comes with a cardboard box from W. Bruford \u0026amp; Son Ltd, Goldsmiths and Silversmiths of Exeter. Bruford's were a long established firm, starting out in Exeter in 1721, and trading throughout the Victorian era, with premises in Exeter and Eastbourne.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e The thermometer is calibrated in both Fahrenheit and \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit;\"\u003eRéaumur\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e scales. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eThe Réaumur scale was used widely in Europe, particularly in France, Germany and Russia. By the 1790s, France had chosen the Celsius scale as part of the metric system, rather than the Réaumur measurement, but it was still in use in some parts of Europe until the mid-19th centur\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit;\"\u003ey.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-weight: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box;\"\u003eC. W. Dixey:\u003c\/b\u003e The business that eventually became \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eC. W. Dixey \u0026amp; Son was established at 3 New Bond Street, London by William Fraser in 1777 as an optical and mathematical instrument company. Fraser's talent was recognised by King George III of England and Royal Warrants, and commissions followed. However, the business declined when an assistant, Mr Grice, used the premises as a gambling den. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eIt was rescued in 1824 when Charles Wastell Dixey and his uncle George acquired the business. The business name changed to C. W. Dixey \u0026amp; Son in 1867. Over the next century the Dixey family served as optician to successive UK monarchs, and created one of London's most distinguished companies. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eThe first 163 years were spent at 3 New Bond Street and 19 Old Bond Street, which was the most exclusive district of London, synonymous with the finest luxury goods. The Old Bond Street premises were destroyed in the Second World War, forcing relocation. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eThe last member of the Dixey family to lead the firm was C.W. Dixey’s grandson, Walter, who transferred ownership to his loyal staff in 1929. The company is still in business today\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e.\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cb style=\"box-sizing: border-box; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition: \u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003eThe thermometer is in very good condition, and full working order. The fitted leather case is in good condition, with some signs of wear. Part of the silk lining is missing from inside the lid, but this could easily be replaced\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003eDimensions: 175mm length, 25mm width (case length: 185mm)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42101432778903,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/CWDixeyThermometer-7.jpg?v=1652874165"},{"product_id":"georgian-pocket-sundial-compass-c-1800","title":"Georgian Pocket Sundial Compass c.1800","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Georgian mahogany cased pocket sundial compass, dating from around 1800. It features a finely engraved brass chapter ring with a folding gnomon. The gnomon has a sprung mechanism which allows it to be folded to either side. The chapter ring and gnomon combination are very much in the style of similar instruments made in England from the late 17th century to the early 19th century. This example has an ornate Georgian style paper compass card design, and a distinctive early Georgian crown-pivot blued needle. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. It also has a transit lock, operated by a small pin and lever when the lid is closed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSundial compasses had been made in Europe since the late 17th century, with wooden cased types known to have been made since the late 18th century. Further details of the history of pocket sundial compasses can be found at the compassmuseum.com website, page: http:\/\/www.compassmuseum.com\/sundials\/sundials.htm\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 points strongly to North. The folding brass gnomon and ring are in very good condition, with some wear to the original lacquered finish of the brass. The wooden case is in very good condition, with a minor crack to the lid near one of the hinges. The original glass  and the paper compass card are in very good condition. The transit lock is working well, locking the needle when the lid is closed. The lid closes well with strong hinges and is secured by twin '7' shaped clasps.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 75mm x 75mm x 23mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43102216585367,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/WoodenSundial11-5-12.jpg?v=1684238687"},{"product_id":"raf-negretti-zambra-isothermal-altimeter-c-1950","title":"Negretti \u0026 Zambra Isothermal Altimeter c.1955","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare British military issue Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra precision Isothermal Altimeter, serial no.P\/113135, made in England c.1955.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eThe altimeter has a 12cm (4.75in) diameter white enamelled dial calibrated in metres, with the markings 'Height,' 'Metres' and 'Isothermal (50°F) Metres, H=19075.5 Log (29.9\/P),' a very finely made lightweight aluminium pointer, and a bevelled glass within a rotating bezel. The dial is signed 'Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, London', and has the serial number P\/113135. Set into the centre of the dial is a thermometer calibrated in degrees Fahrenheit with a range from 0-120°. The altimeter is housed in a very heavy nickel-plated brass drum type case, marked 'Service Part No W.10\/WK.00152', on the base, above a large broad arrow government military service-issue mark\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" property=\"description\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 160%;\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\" data-mce-style=\"line-height: 160%;\"\u003e. These markings suggest that it was originally issued to the British army, although the blue-grey colour scheme of the case looks like that often seen on RAF equipment. Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra specialized in aircraft and aviation instruments and manufactured a variety of instruments for the Ministry of Munitions in WW1 and the Air Ministry in WW2.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eThe altimeter comes complete with its original foam-lined. grey painted, aluminium transport case, with matching serial and service part numbers, broad arrow mark, and milled screw lid lock. The exterior of the case has metal loops for the webbing shoulder strap. There are three screw holes in the base, which may be a later modification. Inside the lid there is a Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra label, and a clip for a small adjustment screwdriver. On the exterior of the lid there is a 1993 dated calibration label. The case also has a separate circular metal plate with three screw holes and a foam centre. This may have been intended to fit inside the lid to provide extra protection for the altimeter whilst in transit.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNegretti \u0026amp; Zambra: \u003c\/strong\u003eNegretti \u0026amp; Zambra of London were highly successful scientific and optical Instrument makers throughout the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Henry Negretti (1818-1879) and Joseph Zambra (1822-1897) formed their partnership in 1850. The company produced scientific and optical instruments and also had a photographic studio based in London. They were appointed opticians and scientific instrument makers to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, King Edward VII, the Royal Observatory and the British Admiralty. Henry Negretti was the first man to take aerial photographs of London from a balloon. Throughout World War One Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra produced instruments for the Ministry of Munitions and developed many instruments for the Air Ministry, including a mercury-in-steel distance thermometer for taking oil and air temperatures in aircraft which was patented in 1920. Their work with the Ministry of Munitions between 1914-18 saw significant innovation in the field of early aviation instruments. After WW1 much of the company’s output was concentrated on projects for the Air Ministry. During WW2 Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra made thermometers and boost gauges for the RAF's Spitfire, Hurricane and Lancaster aircraft. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"s1\"\u003eIn 1950 Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra had 821 employees in Britain, and by 1961 the workforce had increased to over 1200, manufacturing industrial, scientific, meteorological and aeronautical instruments and aero-engine controls. By the 1980s the company's fortunes had declined and they finally ceased trading in 1985.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe altimeter is in very good condition, full working order, and passes the plastic bag test. The integral thermometer is in good working order. The dial, glass, bezel and pointer are all in very good condition. The nickel plated brass case is in very good condition with some marks. The aluminium transit case is in good condition, with general signs of wear and use and some marks. There is some wear to the painted finish of the base. The interior foam lining is in good condition, although the foam is quite old and inflexible. The webbing shoulder strap is in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eAltimeter: 120mm (diameter), \u003cbr\u003eTransit Case: 180mm (diameter) x 110 (height)\u003cbr\u003eWeight: 3kg\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43574947774615,"sku":null,"price":420.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/NegrettiIsothermalBarometer-41.jpg?v=1707392520"},{"product_id":"nairne-blunt-pocket-compass-c-1780","title":"Nairne \u0026 Blunt Pocket Compass c.1780","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare Georgian pocket compass, made in London by Nairne \u0026amp; Blunt around 1780. The compass is signed inside the lid by 'Nairne \u0026amp; Blunt, London'. \u003cstrong\u003eEdward Nairne \u003c\/strong\u003e(1726-1806) was one of the finest scientific instrument makers of the period, and his association with \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Blunt \u003c\/strong\u003e(c.1740-1823) began when he took Blunt on as his apprentice in 1760, before they went into partnership together in 1774, describing themselves as 'Optical and Mathematical Instrument Makers to His Majesty'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of wooden cased compass was produced from the middle of the 18th century to the early 19th century. The compass has a mahogany case, silvered and engraved compass card, flat needle, and jewelled pivot. It also has a transit lock, operated by a small pin and lever which operates when the lid is closed. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. One very unusual feature is the circular brass plate that is fixed to the base of the compass case - presumably to give the compass improved durability.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNairne \u0026amp; Blunt:\u003c\/strong\u003e was a partnership formed by Edward Nairne and his former apprentice Thomas Blunt in 1774, trading from 20 Cornhill, London. Edward Nairne was born in Sandwich in 1726 and was apprenticed at the age of fifteen to the scientific instrument maker Matthew Loft. When Loft died in 1748 Nairne took over the business. In 1749 Nairne took on the first of his apprentices and went on to train several important figures - including Jesse Ramsden, and Thomas Blunt - who joined the company in 1760. Nairne was one of the finest instrument makers of the time, and during his partnership with Blunt he held a Royal Appointment to George III, was a Fellow of The Royal Society, became Master of the Spectacle Makers Guild, and held an Appointment to the Royal Greenwich Observatory. Nairne patented several electrical machines, including an electrostatic generator, and constructed the first successful marine barometer. The instrument was suspended from gimbals mounted within a freestanding frame to provide additional stability at sea. James Cook used one of these barometers on his second voyage to the South Pacific. Nairne is also credited with inventing the rubber eraser. Prior to using rubber, breadcrumbs were used as erasers. Nairne claimed to have inadvertently picked up a piece of rubber instead of breadcrumbs, discovered its erasing properties, and began selling the very first rubber erasers. In 1770 Nairne was selling these cubes of natural rubber at his shop at 20 Cornhill for 3 shillings per half-inch cube.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eThomas Blunt may initially have been the junior partner, as Nairne was already a very well established and respected maker, but Blunt soon became a significant maker in his own right. He is known to have worked with Jean De Magellan on the development of his “new” barometer, and by 1792, Blunt had risen to become Master of the Spectacle Makers Guild. Nairne and Blunt's partnership came to an end in July 1793, with Nairne announcing the parting of the ways in the press on July 24th. The reason for the partnership ending is unknown. Nairne continued to trade at 20 Cornhill until his retirement in 1801, whilst Blunt set up shop next door at 22 Cornhill. In September 1805, just a few weeks before the Battle of Trafalgar, Blunt is known to have supplied telescopes to Admiral Nelson - Nelson writing to Blunt about the order whilst his flagship \u003cem\u003eHMS Victory\u003c\/em\u003e was off the Portuguese coast near Lisbon.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003e\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\u003eNairne died in 1806 and Blunt continued to trade, eventually taking on his sons, Charles, Thomas Jr and Edward. Charles is known to have been working with his father by 1801 under the business name of Thomas Blunt \u0026amp; Son. The business became T\u0026amp;T Blunt with the inclusion of his middle son Thomas Jr. This arrangement prevailed for about ten years until the early 1820’s, when the business continued as Blunt \u0026amp; Son with his youngest son, Edward. Thomas Blunt Sr died in 1823 leaving the business to his younger son, but Edward died aged only 28, after which the business was sold to Thomas Harris \u0026amp; Son.\u003cbr data-mce-fragment=\"1\"\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 compass points strongly to North. The wooden case is in very good condition, with a small but completely stable crack at one edge near NW. The interior of the lid is signed 'Nairne \u0026amp; Blunt, London'. The original glass, silvered compass card, and flat needle are all in very good condition. The transit lock is working well, locking the needle when the lid is closed. The lid closes well with strong hinges and is secured by twin '7' shaped clasps, one on each side of the case. The bottom of the case features a very rare and unusual circular brass plate, secured by six brass screws (one screw is missing).\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 85mm x 85mm x 20mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43697549148311,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/NairneBluntCompass-47.jpg?v=1708367915"},{"product_id":"elliot-brothers-pocket-sundial-compass-c-1853","title":"Elliot Brothers Pocket Sundial Compass c.1853","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare early example of an English brass pocket Sundial Compass or Pantochronometer, made by Elliot Brothers of London c.1853, and signed on the dial 'Elliot Brothers, 56 Strand'. This sundial compass has a domed-lid brass case, and a paper compass card with a brass gnomon. There is a lever-operated transit lock which locks the compass card when the lid is replaced and moved into the locked position. The original paper label inside the lid includes instructions for the use of the sundial at different times of the year. Various types of wooden domed-glass sundial compasses were produced in England in the first half of the 19th century - including the 'Magnetic Sundial' made by Samuel Porter in 1824 - but high quality brass cased versions like this one by Elliot Brothers are much more uncommon.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of sundial compass - a floating sundial on a compass card - is also known as a Pantochronometer or 'Magnetic Dial'. The system was already in use in the 18th century, but the term \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003ePantochronometer\u003c\/span\u003e was apparently coined in the 1820's by Charles Essex, an optician whose shop was at 28 Gloucester Street, Clerkenwell, London. He is mentioned in an article published in \u003cem\u003eThe London Literary Gazette\u003c\/em\u003e in December 1825, in which the Pantochronometer is decribed as 'one of those clever little philosophical instruments, the invention of which does credit to the ingenuity of modern science. It has been produced by Mr Charles Essex and is at once a curious and useful thing. In a box, about the size of a small snuff-box, are combined the machinery of a compass, sun-dial, and universal time-dial; and a compass card, a gnomon, and an indexed border, form the whole of the simple process. It is a desirable power to be able to pull this \"dial from your poke\" and ascertain at once what o'clock it is, the situation of the spot where you are, and the way you ought to go. We must say it is a very neat and ingenious production'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003eThanks to compassmuseum.com for the information about Charles Essex. \u003c\/em\u003eFurther details of sundial compass design, and the history of pocket sundial compasses, can be found at the excellent compassmuseum.com website, page: http:\/\/www.compassmuseum.com\/sundials\/sundials.htm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElliot Brothers:\u003c\/strong\u003e was established at Gray's Inn in London by William Elliot (1781-1853) as a maker of drawing instruments. By 1807 he had moved to High Holborn, and by 1816 he was manufacturing items such as telescopes and barometers. In 1830 he moved to 56 Strand and was joined in the business by his two sons, Frederick Henry Elliot and Charles Alfred Elliot, and they expanded into producing a wide variety of scientific instruments. William Elliot died in 1853 and his sons continued the business as Elliot Brothers. In 1865 Charles Elliot retired and Frederick continued to run Elliot Brothers until his death in 1873, leaving the business to his wife. During the late 19th century the company also manufactured electrical instruments, and in 1893 they amalgamated with Theiler \u0026amp; Co. Telegraph and Instrument Makers. In 1900 the company moved to new premises at the Century Works in Lewisham. In 1916 a new company was formed - this was known as Elliot Brothers (London) Ltd and continued to produce scientific and mathemtcal instruments.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, full working order and finds North very well. The brass case is in very good condition, with minor signs of wear and a few marks. The lid fits very well. The original domed glass is in very good condition, the transit lock is fully functional, and the paper compass card and gnomon are in very good condition. The original paper instructions label inside the lid is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 50mm diameter x 25mm height\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":43835139686551,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/ElliotSundialCompass-15.jpg?v=1711547302"},{"product_id":"royal-panopticon-pocket-compass-1854","title":"Royal Panopticon Pocket Compass (1854)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA small Victorian leather cased pocket compass, sold by W. E. Statham at the Royal Panopticon in Leicester Square, London c.1854. This compass is a very rare memento of a celebrated, though short lived, Victorian scientific entertainment venue - The Royal Panopticon of Science and Art. A paper label inside the case reads 'W. E. Statham, Chemist, Optician, Royal Panopticon, Leicester Square'. The compass can be accurately dated to between 1854 and 1856, as the Royal Panopticon opened in 1854 and closed in 1856. With a distinctive 19th century English blued needle with gilt North and South markers, a paper compass card, and a brass pivot. In its original, purple velvet lined, morocco leather covered case.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003eThe Royal Panopticon of Science and Art\u003c\/b\u003e was one of the grand social institutions and architectural splendours of Victorian London. It was given a Royal Charter in 1850 and building commenced in July 1851. The Royal Panopticon of Science and Art was built on the eastern side ofLeicester Square, opening on 18 March 1854. The Panopticon had a short and unsuccessful lifespan. It was intended to serve as an institute for scientific exhibitions and for promoting discoveries in the arts and manufacturing. For a shilling visitors could listen to scientific lectures, view chemistry experiments, receive electric shocks, or gaze at the illuminated fountain which rose as high as the roof. According to \u003cem\u003eThe Athenaeum\u003c\/em\u003e the Royal Panopticon was the most \"delightful lounge in London\" with exhibitions, music, large fountains, interesting experiments and opportunities for shopping. The Panopticon had a frontage of 104 feet with a Moorish style out of character with the neighbourhood. Opened in 1854, it had limited financial success, closing in 1856, before reopening in 1857 as the Alhambra Music Hall.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam E. Statham (1816-1899) \u003c\/strong\u003eestablished W. E. Statham \u0026amp; Company in 1839, as 'wholesale perfumers', operating from 23 and 24 High Street, Newington Butts, London. The 1841 census listed Statham as a “\u003ci\u003edruggist\u003c\/i\u003e”, suggesting that by then he was already dealing in chemicals. Statham \u0026amp; Co. patented the “\u003ci\u003eEconomic Laboratory\u003c\/i\u003e” on February 4, 1842, and by December of that year, he was advertising six different chemistry sets, ranging in price from 5 shilling 6 pence up to 5 guineas. He also began selling his book, \u003ci\u003eStatham’s First Steps in Chemistry\u003c\/i\u003e. Statham was one of the first people to produce boxed sets of chemicals and apparatus for the youth market. Starting with the chemistry set that he patented in 1842, Statham built a major scientific-entertainment business that lasted well into the twentieth century. His scientific apparatus won medals at the 1862 London and 1867 Paris International Exhibitions for “\u003ci\u003equality and cheapness\u003c\/i\u003e”. Toward the end of the 1850s, Statham began selling microscopes and magnifiers, although he did not manufacture any of the microscopes that he sold. The vast majority of Statham’s microscopes, chemistry sets, and other items bear the address 111 Strand, which was his address from c.1861 onward. In 1867, the Polytechnic Institution, Regent Street was included along with 111 Strand. Stratham exhibited at the 1851 London Exposition at the Crystal Palace, and at the Royal Panopticon of Science and Art between 1854 and 1856.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition, full working order, and finds North very well. There is some wear to the blued finish of the compass needle. The leather covered case is in very good condition, with some wear to the leather hinge and the velvet lining. The paper label inside the case is in good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm x 50mm x 15mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44519636730007,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Panopticon_-_1.jpg?v=1734464850"},{"product_id":"captain-t-g-montgomerie-k2-compass-c-1845","title":"K2 Compass - Captain T. G. Montgomerie c.1845","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare Schmalcalder-type prismatic compass, made by Henry Barrow in London c.1845. The compass card is signed 'Henry Barrow \u0026amp; Co, 26 Oxendon Street, London'. The brass case has the name 'T. G. Montgomerie' engraved on the base.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHenry Barrow\u003c\/strong\u003e (1790-1870), was one of the finest instrument makers of the mid-19th century, and in 1856 \u003cstrong\u003eCaptain T. G. Montgomerie\u003c\/strong\u003e (1830-1878) surveyed and named K2, the second highest mountain in the world. The compass would have been acquired by Montgomerie sometime between 1845 (when he entered the East India Company military academy) and his departure for India in 1851. Henry Barrow supplied many of the instruments used by officers of the East India Company and the Great Survey of India. It is highly likely that T. G. Montgomerie would have used this compass during the pioneering surveys of Kashmir, the Karakoram, and the Himalayas in the 1850's and 1860's.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is a fine example of the work of one of the best maker's of the period. With a hand-drawn green compass card and silvered index ring, jewelled pivot, brass case and lid, prism and vane sights, transit lock, and manual brake. The transit lock mechanism is operated by a rotating lever on the side of the case, and the manual card brake is operated by a push-button below the sights. There is a folding prism (with red and green coloured filters) on one side of the case and a folding sighting vane complete with adjustable mirror on the opposite side. The compass comes complete with its original fitted leather case. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOther compasses and scientific instruments 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\u003eThomas George Montgomerie (1830-1878)\u003c\/strong\u003e: was one of the most important figures in the history of the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India, and is best known today as the man who named K2, the second highest mountain in the world, in September 1856. T. G. Montgomerie was born in Ayr on the 23rd of April 1830. His father, William Eglinton Montgomerie of Annick Lodge, was a nephew of the twelfth Earl of Eglinton, Provost of Irvine, and served as a Colonel in the Ayrshire Yeomanry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eT. G. Montgomerie joined the East India Company's Military Academy at Addiscombe, Surrey In 1845, aged 15. Montgomerie was a brilliant student, graduating in 1849 at the head of his class, he was awarded the Pollock Medal for the most distinguished cadet. He then joined the Bengal Engineers, arriving in India in June 1851. After a tour of duty with the Fifth Company of Sappers and Miners working on the Hindustan-Tibet road, he joined the Great Trigonometrical Survey of India under Sir Andrew Waugh. In 1855 Montgomerie was put in charge of the survey of Kashmir. He spent the next decade working on the topographical survey of Kashmir, including the Tibetan regions of Ladak and Balti, covering an area of over 70,000 square miles, and including many of the highest mountains in the world. During the course of the survey, Montgomerie often worked at high altitude, with observation stations situated at anything from 15,000 to 20,000ft. Montgomerie was noted for both the excellence of his methods and administration and his good relations with his staff and local digntaries.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt was during the Kashmir Survey that Montgomerie named K2, the second highest mountain in the world. On 10th of September 1856 Montgomerie sketched the two most prominent peaks of the Karakoram mountain range, visible from the survey station at Haramukh, near Srinagar. These he labelled 'K1' and 'K2' - for Karakoram 1 and Karakoram 2. The Great Trigonometrical Survey used the local names for mountains wherever possible, and K1 later became known by its local name, Masherbrum, but no reliable name could be found for the peak Montgomerie named K2. The lack of a widely used local name was probably due to K2's remoteness. The mountain is not visible from nearby habitations and is only fleetingly glimpsed from the end of the Baltoro Glacier, one of the longest glaciers in the world. And so Montgomerie's initial designation - K2 - remains to this day the mountain's universally recognised name. At the time of his survey of the mountain Montgomerie produced a sketch of his view of K1 and K2, although In this sketch K2 appears smaller than K1 due to it being the more distant peak. Montgomerie later presented this sketch to the Royal Geographical Society, as described in the \u003cem\u003eProceedings of the Royal Geographical Society (1866)\u003c\/em\u003e: 'Captain Montgomerie exhibited a large and characteristic sketch of the Mashabrum Peak, the most conspicuous mountain in the Mustakh and Karakorum range. . . . Behind the Mashabrum peak lies the peak K2, which rises to 28,257 feet above the sea, being the highest in the range and the second highest in the world. K2 is surrounded on all sides by very lofty peaks, and is consequently never seen to great advantage'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Kashmir Survey was completed in 1864, and in 1865 Montgomerie was awarded the Founder's Gold Medal of the Royal Geographical Society 'for his great trigonometrical journey from the plains of the Punjab to the Karakorum Range'. In 1864 Montgomerie was posted to the headquarters of the Great Trigonometrical Survey at Dehra Dun where he took charge of the clandestine survey of Tibet. But by February 1865 Montgomerie was in such poor health after thirteen arduous years of survey work that he was forced to return to England. In 1867 he returned to India where he was made deputy superintendent of the Great Trigonometrical Survey and put in charge of the Himalayan survey in Kumaon and Gurhwal. During the next two years he organised four more clandestine expeditions into Tibet. From 1870-1873 Montgomerie officiated as Superintendant of the Great Trigonometrical Survey during the absence of Colonel Walker. But in 1873 Montgomerie was again forced to return to England due to ill health and he never went back to India. He was promoted to Lieutenant-Colonel in 1874 and retired with the rank of Colonel in 1876. He died at Bath on 31st of January 1878, aged 47.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003eFor more information on T. G. Montgomerie see the article by\u003c\/em\u003e John Loney at https:\/\/irvinehistorynotes.yolasite.com\/thomas-george-montgomerie.php)\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(For further information on Henry Barrow see \u003cem\u003eMaking Mountains out of Molehills - George Everest and Henry Barrow 1830-39\u003c\/em\u003e by Jane Insley, \u003cem\u003eIndian Journal of History and Science\u003c\/em\u003e, 1995)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, and full working order. The compass finds North well. The glass, sighting vane, filters, and prism are all in very good condition. The compass card is in very good condition. There is some wear and marking to the finish of the brass case and the frame of the folding sight. One small brass screw is missing from the sighting vane mount. The brass case has the inscription 'T. G. Montgomerie' engraved on the base. The original fitted leather case is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 75mm diameter, height 25mm\u003cbr\u003eLeather case: 110mm x 85mm x 40mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44524086984855,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/T_G_Montgomerie_Compass_-_122.jpg?v=1723910524"},{"product_id":"barker-patent-compass-clinometer-c-1890","title":"Barker Patent Prismatic Compass Clinometer c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Barker Patent Combined Prismatic Compass and Clinometer, also known as an 'Angle of Sight Instrument'. This instrument was patented by Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son in 1881, and dates from 1881-c.1895. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a Barker design that was usually supplied unsigned to scientific instrument retailers such as Louis Casella (1812-1897), who would often add their own company details to the lid or compass card. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis instrument has a \u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ecut-out aluminium ring compass card, to be read via the prism. Above this is positioned a white clinometer card, marked with various scales and inscribed 'Inches Per Yard', and with the Barker patent no. 1926 at the centre. Fixed above the clinometer card is\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e a cut-out upper layer with an aperture for reading the compass and clinometer cards, marked at the edge with the serial no. 2608. The brass hunter case has an 'Oxydised' or bronzed finish, \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003ecircular viewing window with lubber line to the lid, side mounted prism, clinometer release button, manual brake, and a tripod mounting point to the base. A small section of the lower part of the brass case and lid have been flattened to provide a stable surface or ‘foot’ when placed vertically on a surface for use as a clinometer.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eWilliam Ford Stanley described this instrument in his book \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e\u003cem\u003eSurveying And Levelling Instruments\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003e (1895) as 'Barker’s Combined Prismatic Compass and Clinometer', 1881 Patent No. 1926. Stanley stated that: '\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #808080;\"\u003eA part of the clinometer card is cut away so as to enable the compass card to be read beneath. This cut-away part is held by a stop to a position out of the field of the prism when the instrument is to be used as a prismatic compass. When the stop is released and the instrument is held with its face vertical, the pendulous clinometer card comes into view'. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFurther information on Barker Compass Clinometers can be found at trademarklondon.com in the PDF version of Paul Crespel's book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e, and examples of the Casella retailed versions can be seen at compassmuseum.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, Casella, 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 Barker compasses are now manufactured by Pyser Optics at Edenbridge in Kent. 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 clinometer is in very good condition, full working order and finds North very well. The clinometer is in full working order. The original 'Oxydised' or bronzed finish of the case has worn away in places. The glass, prism, and both compass and clinometer cards are in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 70mm diameter (100mm inc. prism), 25mm depth\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44608962789527,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Barker1926ClinometerCasella-30.jpg?v=1726234148"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-bosworths-patent-sketching-board-c-1905","title":"J. H. Steward Major Bosworth's Patent Sketching Board c.1905","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Major Bosworth's Patent Sketching board, made by J. H. Steward Ltd of London between 1897-1910. Marked 'Major Bosworth's Patent' and 'J. H. Steward, 457 West Strand, London', the board is well made, of high quality wood and brass, and features a leather wrist strap on the rear. The patent (No. GB189709492) for the J. H. Steward\/W. J. Bosworth board was filed in 1897, so it was made after that date, but before 1910, when it had become known as 'Colonel Bosworth's'. The Bosworth board featured in the 1910 edition of the Steward Military catalogue, but was not included in the 1916 edition, so it looks like production had ceased by 1915. Two versions were listed in the 1910 Military catalogue - this one was 'Designed for use on a bicycle or motor car'.  It's most distinctive feature was that it had a removable compass, held in place by a brass bar and knurled nut on the rear of the board. The compass could be removed if it was affected by the metal components of the bicycle or car. This board no longer has the compass that would have accompanied it. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Bosworth board was a variant of the 'Cavalry Sketching Board'. Various other designs of Cavalry sketching board were being produced around this time, including those by Lt-Col. Willoughby Verner, Aston \u0026amp; Mander, and Houghton's, but the Bosworth type is much less common.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Cavalry Sketching Board: \u003c\/strong\u003ewas originally designed by Colonel W. H. Richards, who taught military surveying at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst c.1880. The board was improved by Major Willoughby Verner who was also briefly Professor of Topography at Sandhurst. Verner patented his own improvements in 1887 and 1891 and the board became known as \u003ci\u003eVerner's\u003c\/i\u003e. W. J. Bosworth patented further improvements in 1897\u003ci\u003e,\u003c\/i\u003e and versions of the board remained in use until around 1930.\u003ci\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/i\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCavalry Sketching Boards were designed to be strapped to the arm of a cavalryman on the bridle arm. The board was attached to the arm by a leather strap with a swivel joint. This enabled the user to twist the whole board on their arm to align the compass accurately. The board incorporated a compass for taking bearings, and the sketch was made on a paper roll which was wound around one of the side rollers. As a sketch was completed, the paper roll was advanced to supply more paper. During WW1 the sketching board was often used by pilots and observers of the Royal Flying Corps to make sketches of enemy positions and trenches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJ. H. Steward Ltd\u003c\/strong\u003e: James Henry Steward 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\u003eIn very good condition, with general signs of use and a few marks. There is some wear to the leather wrist strap.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e Board: 200mm x 215mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44887682547863,"sku":null,"price":85.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/BosworthsPatent-2.jpg?v=1732967483"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-pocket-sundial-compass-c-1933","title":"Francis Barker Pocket Sundial Compass c.1932","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Francis Barker pocket sundial compass, made c.1932. With a folding gilt gnomon, an octagonal engraved dial plate, small inset compass, and three ball-shaped feet. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a very well known Barker design, which was clearly influenced by the 18th century Butterfield-type pocket sundial. The sundial comes with its original cardboard box and instructions label.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eMichael Butterfield\u003c\/strong\u003e (1635-1724) was a British clockmaker who settled in Paris in the 1660's. He worked for the Royal court and also had premises in the Faubourg Saint-Germain district, making precision scientific instruments. The Russian Czar Peter the Great visited his shop in 1717. After Butterfield's death in 1724, the sun-watch he had been manufacturing and selling was copied by many european manufacturers. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Butterfield pocket sundial or sun-watch was generally either octagonal or oval in shape, with a dial plate engraved with a number of different hour scales serving different latitudes, a compass, and an adjustable gnomon. Butterfield was not the inventor of this type of instrument - examples are known which clearly date from before he began working in Paris, such as those made by Roch Blondeau (c.1673), and Timothée Collet. Further details of the history of pocket sundial compasses can be found at the compassmuseum.com website, page: http:\/\/www.compassmuseum.com\/sundials\/sundials.htm\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 points strongly to North. The folding gnomon and engraved dial plate are in excellent condition. The original cardboard box is in good condition, with signs of wear and use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Sundial: 52mm x 62mm, (Box: 70mm x 70mm)\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45089426571415,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Barker_Pocket_sundial_Y_-_17.jpg?v=1738261215"},{"product_id":"georgian-wooden-sundial-compass-c-1840","title":"Georgian Wooden Sundial Compass c.1840","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian or early Victorian wooden pocket sundial compass, also known as a 'Pantochronometer' or 'Magnetic Dial', dating from c.1840. The term \u003cem\u003epantochronometer\u003c\/em\u003e was apparently coined in the early 19th century by Charles Essex \u0026amp; Co. of Clerkenwell, London. This particular type of floating sundial compass was patented by the London instrument maker Samuel Porter in 1824, who referred to these instruments as 'Magnetic Dials' and often labelled them to that effect on the base. Similar instruments are known to have been made in Europe in the late 18th century. Further details of the history of pocket sundials can be found at the excellent compassmuseum.com website.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis example features a turned wooden case and floating sundial compass card, incorporating a brass gnomon under a domed glass. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, full working order and finds very North well. The wooden case is in good condition with signs of wear and a few marks. The lid fits perfectly. The paper compass card and brass gnomon are in very good condition. The original domed glass is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 52mm diameter, 25mm depth\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45096998011031,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Pantochronometer-8.jpg?v=1738500196"},{"product_id":"e-r-watts-compass-barometer-combination-1903","title":"E. R. Watts \u0026 Son Barometer Compass (1903)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"viewdesc mobdesc\"\u003eA rare E. R. Watts \u0026amp; Son barometer compass combination instrument, dating from 1903. The 1910 edition of the Watts catalogue listed several types of barometer\/compass combinations, 'All of the very best quality'. Most of these featured Singer's Patent type compasses, but the company also offered to quote for 'All kinds of Aneroid Barometers not included in the list'. According to the catalogue, all their instruments were 'Manufactured entirely at our London works. They are of the finest materials and workmanship, the highest possible finish, and of guaranteed accuracy'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"viewdesc mobdesc\"\u003eThis instrument was made in 1903 - the date is engraved on the internal mechanism. It is quite an unusual Watts design, with the compass card being different to their standard Singer's type, and it may have been made to special order. (An identical instrument featured in the 1890 catalogue of G. S. Woolman, a New York importer and retailer of scientific instruments, where it was described as a 'Geological Aneroid'). \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan class=\"viewdesc mobdesc\"\u003eIt features an aneroid barometer, with a rotating bezel scale calibrated to 10,000 feet. The compass has an English bar needle, and a transit lock operated by a sliding button on the side of the case. The 'bronzed' finish brass case is screw-threaded and unscrews to separate into two parts, allowing the barometer and compass to be used independently. The bronzed finish of the case is particularly well preserved - this type of finish often wears away over time or is damaged by polishing. Both the barometer and compass are in perfect working order, having been fully serviced and calibrated in February 2025 by barometer specialists Vavasseur Antiques in Devon.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eE. R. Watts \u0026amp; Son: \u003c\/strong\u003ewere established in 1857 at 123 Camberwell Road, London, by Edwin Watts (1833-1901) as makers of theodolites and other surveying and scientific instruments. Watts was just 23, his staff was one boy, and his workshop was a small room over a Bemondsey stable. Watts first order was from Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra for a mining dial. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003eIn the early days marine compasses were one of their main products, and Edwin Watts would go down to the Docks to adjust the compasses once they had been installed on the ships. In 1873 the business moved to larger premises; a house with a garden, stables and a hayloft. The workshop was also the home of Mr and Mrs Watts and their five sons and three daughters. Watts was commissioned to supply the Theodolites and Levels for the Canadian Pacific Railway, and by 1881 he was employing 5 men and 5 boys. Towards the end of the century the firm began to make heliographs, continuing to produce them for the government until just before the Second World War. In 1904 The first dividing engine was completed by George William Watts. It was so remarkable an instrument at the time and for years afterwards, that a full description was included in Sir R. Glazebrook's \u003cem\u003eDictionary of Applied Physics\u003c\/em\u003e. In 1907 Arthur Ames went to Canada on behalf of the firm to set up a new venture in Winnipeg. In 1909 this became a separate company called E. R. Watts and Son Ltd of Ottawa. This firm developed considerably and was eventually, with the co-operation of three other instrument companies (Cambridge Instrument Co, Ross, and Negretti and Zambra), reconstituted as Instruments Ltd of Ottawa and Toronto.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBy the time The 1910 edition of the E. R. Watts catalogue was produced the firm was described as a 'Manufacturer of Surveying and other Instruments of Precision'. During the next ten years they expanded greatly to include glass grinding, leatherwork, dividing and engraving, testing, adjusting and packing. This expansion was continued during the First World War when new workshops were established. The Watts Vertical Force Variometer was developed during WWI, and other Watts instruments introduced around this time included the Light Mountain Theodolites which were taken on early Mount Everest expeditions. In 1919 Watts was Incorporated as a limited company. In 1939 G. A. Whipple joined the Board of Directors. Shortly afterwards, Frank Charles Watts died - he had been Chairman of the firm for over 37 years. He was succeeded by his brother George William Watts. The vacant post of Managing Director was filled by G. A. Whipple. During the Second World War the company expanded further and the number of employees rose to over 1,300. In 1948 Watts amalgamated with Adam Hilger as Hilger and Watts which was incorporated as a public company. In 1968 this company became part of Rank Precision Industries, before finally being liquidated in 1969.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\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. It was professionally serviced and calibrated in February 2025 by barometer specialists Vavasseur Antiques. With just some minor wear to the original bronzed finish of the brass case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e65mm (diameter) x 35mm (height)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45308605366423,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/ERWattscompassbarometer-23.jpg?v=1758730746"},{"product_id":"victorian-pocket-sundial-compass-c-1860","title":"Victorian Pocket Sundial Compass c.1860","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare and unusual example of a pocket sundial compass, dating from c.1860. Although there are no makers marks, this is an elegant and very well made instrument, undoubtedly by one of the best makers of the time. It may possibly have been made by Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son, as they specialised in sundials around this time. The style of the needle and compass card are typical of compasses made in England in the mid to late 19th century. The compass has a brass case, with a push-fit lid, hand-drawn compass card, a blued needle with gold painted markers, and a brass pivot. The hinged sundial gnomon is spring-loaded.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSundial compasses had been made in Europe since the late 17th century, with wooden cased types known to have been made since the early 19th century. Francis Barker and other makers were producing small pocket sundial compasses from around 1850. Further details of the history of sundial compasses, can be found at the compassmuseum.com website. Francis Barker was one of the most prolific makers of sundials in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, and details of his sundials can be found at in Paul Crespel's book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e, available to view as a PDF at trademarklondon.com.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, full working order and finds North well. The brass case is in very good condition, with some wear to the original lacquered finish. The lid fits very well. The paper compass card, glass, needle, and gnomon are all in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 50mm diameter, 10mm depth\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45393731354775,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Victorian_Sundial_XX_-_16.jpg?v=1745237953"},{"product_id":"james-parkes-pocket-sundial-compass-c-1855","title":"James Parkes Pocket Sundial Compass c.1850","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare early example of an English wooden pocket sundial compass, dating from c.1850, made by James Parkes of Birmingham. The sundial compass has a wooden case, made from Yew, and a typical Parkes design paper compass card, with the distinctive Parkes 'Left Eye' Trade Mark at the North point. It has a blued needle with gold painted markers and brass pivot, and a pin and lever operated transit lock which locks the needle when the lid is closed. The original paper label inside the lid includes full instructions for the set up and use of the sundial. This particular type of pocket sundial design was previously thought to have only been made by Francis Barker during the mid Victorian period. One of the earliest he is known to have made was for Robert Gogerty of 72 Fleet Street around 1855 (Gogerty ceased trading in that year and died in 1856).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAlthough the design and dimensions of this Parkes sundial are very similar to the Barker sundials, there are several significant differences. The style and arrangement of the hour markers around the edge of the case is quite different to the usual Barker design, the hinges are much more substantial and fitted to the lid differently, and the instruction label is written in italics - which the Barker version never was. The lid also has a slightly curved top surface - again something that is not seen on the Barker sundials. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is possible that this instrument was made by Francis Barker and simply retailed by James Parkes, but if that was the case there would have been no reason for Barker to introduce significant changes to his usual design. The most likely solution seems to be that this sundial was made by James Parkes - either as his own original design that was later copied and adapted by Francis Barker, or that Parkes saw an early version of the Barker design and then adapted it. The wording of the Parkes and the Barker instruction labels are virtually identical - so it seems undeniable that some copying was going on. But it also seems certain that this particular sundial was made by Parkes - Barker would not have fitted it with a 'Left Eye' Trade Mark compass card, or made all the changes to his usual design. And Parkes had established his business in Birmingham in 1815 - long before Francis Barker started trading in London. So who was the originator of this very distinctive type of pocket sundial - Francis Barker or James Parkes? We may never know, but the Parkes sundial is certainly a very intriguing and important addition to the story of English pocket sundials.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, virtually 'museum' condition, full working order and finds North well. The wooden case, clasps, hinges, and lid support are all in very good condition. The transit lock is fully functional. The paper compass card, needle, and glass are in very good condition. The original paper instructions label inside the lid is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 50mm x 75mm x 18mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJames Parkes (1786-1877)\u003c\/strong\u003e established his business in Birmingham in 1815. City directories described his initial business as a “gilt toy manufacturer” and “stamper and piercer”. As Parkes was not a goldsmith, “gilt” probably meant lacquered brass or other metals. At that time, “toy” referred to small items, such as snuff boxes, jewelry cases, and other metal items. James Parkes' book of 'Items and Customers' dating from 1833-1837 is held in the Birmingham Archives and describes the business as 'Manufacturers of optical and mathematical instruments'. James Parkes only son, Samuel, became a partner in about 1846, forming James Parkes \u0026amp; Son. A catalogue produced in 1848, described the business as 'manufacturers of improved measuring tapes, land chains, mathematical instruments, miners’ and mariners’ compasses, watch keys, seals, \u0026amp;c., \u0026amp;c'. An 1849 Birmingham city directory described them as 'manfs. of mathematical instruments and gilt toys'. Their 1857 catalogue prominently featured microscopes and prepared slides. Samuel Parkes continued the business under the same name after his father’s death. Samuel had only one son, also named Samuel. That son, and a nephew, James Moulton, continued the business after the elder Samuel died. Moulton left the partnership in 1908, and Samuel T. H. Parkes continued alone for a number of years.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son: \u003c\/strong\u003ewere established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. One of the most important British scientific instrument makers of the Victorian era, Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, 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 owned by Pyser Optics of Edenbridge in Kent. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSundial Compasses\u003c\/strong\u003e had been made in Europe since the late 17th century, with wooden cased types known to have been made since the early 19th century. Further details of sundial compass design, and the history of pocket sundial compasses, can be found at the compassmuseum.com website, page: http:\/\/www.compassmuseum.com\/sundials\/sundials.htm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45405138157719,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Parkes_Sundial_Extra_-_3.jpg?v=1745426026"},{"product_id":"hymans-pocket-range-finder-1915","title":"Hymans Pocket Range Finder (1915)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare WW1 British military range finder, dating from c.1915. Designed by Charles Hymans of Cambridge, it was patented in 1915 (Patent No. 4493\/15). Complete with its original instructions manual.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Hymans range finder appeared in many newspaper and magazine advertisments during WW1, often with testimonials from officers serving in the front line. As an officer in a 'Cyclist Co. B.E.F., Somewhere in France' wrote: 'I have the Hymans Pocket Range Finder and am very pleased with it. I have shown the Range Finder to several officers, who were all very interested. Major General --- examined it for about half an hour'. The Hymans Range Finder was described as being 'Approved by and supplied to H. M. War Office', and was priced at 57 shillings in 1915. It was said to be made on an 'entirely new principle and for simplicity and accuracy has no equal. Every officer should carry one in his tunic pocket'. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe instrument has a brass case with an oxidised finish containing the rangefinder elements, a prism and a sliding lens with integral scale. The case carries the maker's mark, 'Chas. Hymans, Cambridge', and the patent number, 4493\/15. On either side of the case there are measurement tables to be used in conjunction with the scale on the sliding lens frame. It comes with its exceptionally rare original instructions manual (13pp), and another original instructions leaflet with testimonials from military users.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCharles Hymans (1882-1972)\u003c\/strong\u003e: was an opthalmic optician and scientific instrument retailer with premises in St Andrews St, Cambridge, and also in King's Lynn. His family were originally from Holland, arriving in London in the 1860s. In 1901 Charles was apprenticed to an optical and scientific manufacturer in London, and by 1911 he had moved to Cambridge and set up his own business. He set up a second branch in King's Lynn, which traded until 1918, afterwards concentrating on the Cambridge business, which was still trading as Hymans \u0026amp; Cox until the 1930s.\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 sliding lens and prism are in very good condition and working well. The original instruction manual is in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e85mm length (140mm with lens extended), \u003cbr\u003e30mm width, 20mm depth\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45420657574039,"sku":null,"price":235.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/HymansRangefinder-48_3110e25a-eea3-4dd4-af9d-610fe2b923e6.jpg?v=1745524343"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-telemeter-range-finder-c-1898","title":"J. H. Steward Telemeter Range Finder c.1893","description":"\u003cp\u003eA J. H. Steward Labbez Pocket Telemeter Range Finder, dating from c.1893. Complete with its original instructions manual, and a handwritten note on its use, issued by J. H. Steward. The Labbez Telemeter Range Finder appeared in several J. H. Steward catalogues at the end of the 19th century, including the 1893, 1896 and 1899 editions. By 1899 more than 800 Labbez Telemeters had been sold by J. H. Steward, 'to officers of the British and Indian Army and Volunteers. In most instances this has been after two minutes instruction and a single trial by the purchaser from a position overlooking the river, within two minutes walk of this establishment'. This commercial success continued into the early years of the 20th century, with improved versions of the Telemeter still in use during the First World War.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis type of Telemeter Range Finder was originally intended to give accurate ranges of objects for musketry and reconnaissance work. The Steward catalogue for 1899 stated that the instrument had proved invaluable in 'a rapid and successful survey in Asia Minor, where the lakes, craters of volcanoes, and special topographical features were noted, the distances in each case being taken with this telemeter; also during the recent (1898) Soudan Expedition, when the Nile was mapped by a Special Service officer. Its use for ranging machine guns and directing infantry fire has also been emphasised at various times by officers on active service'. Lt-Colonel Willoughby Verner, inventor of the celebrated Verner Service Compass, tested the Telemeter and was very satisfied with its performance, as were many other officers, including the O.C. Commanding the 1st Bengal Infantry, who stated that 'I have the pleasure to inform you that I have put the Labbez Telemeters to a trial, and am very pleased with them, as they are simple and accurate'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe instrument has a tubular 'bronzed' or blackened brass case, containing the prism and other rangefinder elements. The case is inscribed: 'Labbez Telemeter, Sole Agents J. H. Steward, 406 Strand, London', and has the serial number '389'. As Steward had sold 800 of these instruments by 1899, it seems likely that this one dates from several years earlier. It comes complete with its original brass bobbin and reel of string which was used for measuring base lines. The Telemeter fits inside the bobbin for transport, and this then fits into a compartment in the leather case. Various optional accessories could be added to the basic Telemeter, including a telescope attachment for use with more distant objects.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIt is very unsual indeed to find a Telemeter which still has its original instruction manual and its fitted leather case, rarer still to have a handwritten note on J. H. Steward stationery. \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJ. H. Steward\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.\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, with minor signs of wear and use. The leather case is in very good condition. The original instruction manual is in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTelemeter: 40mm x 70mm,\u003cbr\u003eLeather case:\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e55mm x 75mm x 90mm\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45421840203927,"sku":null,"price":350.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Telemeter-21.jpg?v=1762248958"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-magnifying-lens-compass-thermometer-c-1890","title":"Francis Barker Magnifying Lens Compass Thermometer c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass thermometer combination instrument, dating from c.1890. This instrument was known as the 'Combination Compass', and was supplied by Barker to prominent retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra from the late 19th century until just before the First World War. In the Negretti catalogue for 1908 it is described as a 'Compass, Thermometer, Magnifier, Reading and Burning Glass. One side of the interior is engraved with the eight compass points, and the ring divided to five degrees, whilst to the reverse side is attached a Thermometer with the divisions engraved on the metal scale. The whole of the centre is transparent. The two sides are constructed of thick optically-worked glass of such a curvature that they act perfectly as a magnifier of good power. The axis of the needle is accurately balanced between the two glass surfaces. This compass is strongly made to withstand hard service, and is of the best quality and workmanship throughout.'\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis combination instrument  has a substantial gilt brass case and a finely balanced English Bar Needle, pivoting between the two magnifying lenses. The cardinal points are hand painted in red and black, set against a white background. The thermometer is set into the perimeter of the rear of the compass dial, and the hand painted scale is calibrated in Fahrenheit from 30 to 120 degrees. Transparent Barker compass designs are well known, but it is exceptionally rare to find one with an integral thermometer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe 'Combination Compass' was based on the 'Pebble Lens' design which featured in Barker catalogues from the 1880s until the 1920s. In their catalogue for 1885 it was described as a ‘Cyclists Compass, for use with maps etc’. It was said to be ‘Invaluable to Cyclists, Captains, Military men, and others. Being transparent, the roads on the map are easily seen and the distance calculated. The pebble lens, being best optically worked, makes it a fair sized magnifier of good power, for reading and examining any small object’. By the time the 1907 catalogue was produced, the Pebble Lens compass was being described as useful to ‘Aeronauts, Explorers, Motorists, and Yachtsmen’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFurther details of the Barker Pebble Lens compass design can be found in \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e by Paul Crespel, available as a PDF at the trademarklondon.com website.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North well. The magnifying lenses are in very good condition. The gilt brass case and English bar needle are in very good condition, with some wear to the original gilt finish. The thermometer is in very good condition and in working order.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm diameter, 15mm depth\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son:\u003c\/strong\u003e were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. The company soon became recognised as one of the most important scientific instrument makers of the time. 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 owned by Pyser Optics of Edenbridge in Kent. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45430145155223,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Barkercompassthermometer-13.jpg?v=1746100034"},{"product_id":"french-pedometer-c-1914","title":"French Pedometer c.1914","description":"\u003cp\u003eA nickel-plated brass cased pedometer, dating from c.1914. With a white enamel dial, blued pointers, and bevelled glass. The three scales on the dial are 0-1760 yards (1 mile), 1-10 miles, and 10-100 miles. The dials are zeroed by means of a push button at the bow. The detachable belt clip at the bow is marked 'Depose, Paris'. There are no makers marks, but pedometers with exactly this type of dial design were produced by the well-known French maker Henri Chatelain from the late 19th century to the early 20th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHenri Chatelain:\u003c\/strong\u003e was born in 1848. The company he founded made measuring instruments - including pedometers and opisometers - bearing his 'HC' brand. They were manufactured in Paris from the 1870s until the mid-twentieth century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn very good condition and working order. The nickel plating to the rear of the brass case has some wear, and there is some dust under the glass. The glass, pointers, and dial are in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 40mm diameter (60mm inc. bow)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45696614793367,"sku":null,"price":85.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Parispedometer-8.jpg?v=1755713801"},{"product_id":"dollond-georgian-compass-c-1800","title":"Dollond Georgian Compass c.1790","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Georgian mahogany cased compass, made in London by Dollond c.1790. The compass is signed by 'Dollond, London'. This type of wooden cased compass was produced from the middle of the 18th century to the early 19th century. This is a well made and substantial compass, with a large sized mahogany case (145mm x 150mm), silvered and engraved compass card, and English bar needle. There is transit lock, operated by a small pin and lever, which locks the needle when the lid is closed. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDollond and Company\u003c\/strong\u003e: \u003cspan id=\"art_content\"\u003eDollond were a leading British maker of high quality scientific instruments during the 18th and the 19th centuries. They made telescopes, microscopes, compasses, sundials and other optical and scientific instruments. \u003c\/span\u003eIn 1750 Peter Dollond opened a small optical business in Vine Street, Hatton Garden, London, under his father's guidance. By 1752 The business was sufficiently successful that John Dollond, 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 achromatic lens for refracting telescopes. 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. In 1759 J. Dollond and Son opened a shop in the Strand, and 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 on to supply optical instruments for Captain Cook. In 1781 Peter Dollond began making bifocal spectacles. John Dollond died in 1804 and Peter Dollond took his nephew George Huggins 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. In 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.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, and full working order. The compass points strongly to North. The wooden case is in very good condition, with a few  marks and general signs of use. The glass, compass card, and bar needle are all in very good condition, with a few marks to the compass card. There is a small repair to a break in the brass ring above the glass. The transit lock is working well, locking the needle when the lid is closed. The lid closes well with strong hinges and is secured by twin '7' shaped clasps.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Case: 145mm x 150mm x 25mm, Dial: 130mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46114421506199,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Dollondcompass-27.jpg?v=1758538152"},{"product_id":"herga-co-brunton-pocket-transit-compass-c-1928-copy","title":"Herga \u0026 Co Brunton Pocket Transit Compass c.1928","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Brunton Pocket Transit Compass, made for Herga \u0026amp; Co. of Brisbane, Australia, by F. Barker \u0026amp; Son c.1926 -1932. It comes complete with its original fitted leather case. Although there are no maker’s marks, other than ‘Made in England’, the compass is identical to those made and supplied by Francis Barker around this time, and Herga \u0026amp; Co are known to have imported many of the products they sold from England. Barker often supplied compasses unsigned to the retail trade, with the retailer then adding their own company name and details. This compass has ‘Herga \u0026amp; Co, Brisbane’ and the initials ‘R.M.’ engraved on the lid. The Brunton featured in several early 20th century Barker catalogues, being described in the 1919 and 1926 editions as 'Invaluable to mining and civil engineers, surveyors, \u0026amp; c.’ The additional ‘bullseye’ spirit level on the clinometer arm, an improvement on the original design, was first introduced in 1926.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eExamples of Francis Barker Brunton's can be seen in the 1919 and 1926 Barker catalogue entries reproduced on pages 428 and 477 of Paul Crespel's definitive work on Barker compasses, Trade Mark London.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHerga \u0026amp; Co\u003c\/strong\u003e were established in Australia in 1888 when Alphonse Herga opened a watch repair shop in Queen Street, Brisbane. In 1894 he apprenticed Frederick Bright and formed Herga \u0026amp; Co., specialising in chronographs, watches and clocks imported from England. In 1927 Herga \u0026amp; Co opened a new shop in Edward Street, selling imported English barometers and clocks, and supplying Queensland schools and Government Departments with high quality wall clocks. The company became well known throughout Australia for their range of fine wall clocks, using imported English movements in Australian oak, cedar and maple cases. During WW2 Herga repaired navigation instrument for the US Navy, and the company began to specialise in surveying equipment.     \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Brunton Pocket Transit compass\u003c\/strong\u003e was invented in 1894 by D. W. Brunton, a Canadian-born geologist and mining engineer. Brunton commissioned a skilled watchmaker in Denver, Colorado to manufacture his invention, and it proved to be very succcessful as an alternative to the bulky surveying equipment of that time. Unlike most modern compasses, the Brunton Pocket Transit utilizes magnetic induction damping rather than fluid to damp needle oscillation. A specialized instrument, used to make accurate navigational and slope-angle measurements in the field, it is still used by geologists, archeologists, environmental engineers, mining engineers, and surveyors. The US Army adopted the Pocket Transit as the M2 Compass for use by field artillery. Modern versions, made by the Brunton company in the USA, are still in production.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son: \u003c\/strong\u003ewere established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. One of the most important British scientific instrument makers of the Victorian era, Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, supplying major British retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, and Dollond \u0026amp; Co, and exporting their products worldwide. 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 owned by Pyser Optics of Edenbridge in Kent. 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\u003eIn very good condition, full working order, and finds North well. There is some wear to the original black painted finish of the case. The needle, jewelled pivot, transit lock, clinometer arm, mirror, sights and levels are all in very good condition and working well. With the retailer's details ‘Herga \u0026amp; Co, Brisbane’ and the initials ‘R.M.’ engraved on the lid. The leather case is in good condition, with the name ‘Robert Montgomery’ stamped on the lid.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions : 80mm x 70mm x 30mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46357519696023,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/BruntoncompassB-14.jpg?v=1764688587"},{"product_id":"negretti-zambra-barometer-forecaster-c-1916","title":"Negretti \u0026 Zambra Barometer Forecaster c.1915","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan data-mce-fragment=\"1\" class=\"viewdesc mobdesc\"\u003eA brass Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra Desktop Forecaster, dating from c.1915. It comes complete with its original khaki canvas case. Patented by the firm in 1915 (Patent No: 6276\/1915) it was intended to be used in conjunction with a barometer. Featuring three concentric engraved brass rings with instructions for use on the central plate, the N\u0026amp;Z weather forecaster provided a convenient way of accurately predicting the weather. The direction of the wind is first set on the outer ring, noting whether it is rising, falling, or steady and then the central pointer is aligned with the current barometer reading. The setting of these two positions will then reveal a weather reading in the cut-out section of the central plate. This simple and effective system meant that  the weather could be forecast swiftly with a good deal of accuracy. These brass desktop versions were a larger, more expensive, and more accurate version of the celluloid pocket version. Several different versions of the Forecaster were produced, including simple celluloid discs, celluloid with a nickel-plated brass surround, and the larger, solid brass desk types.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNegretti \u0026amp; Zambra: \u003c\/strong\u003e Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra of London were highly successful scientific and optical Instrument makers throughout the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Henry Negretti (1818-1879) and Joseph Zambra (1822-1897) formed their partnership in 1850. The company produced scientific and optical instruments and also had a photographic studio based in London. They were appointed opticians and scientific instrument makers to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, King Edward VII, the Royal Observatory and the British Admiralty. Henry Negretti was the first man to take aerial photographs of London from a balloon. Throughout World War One Negretti and Zambra produced instruments for the Ministry of Munitions and developed many instruments for the Air Ministry, including a mercury-in-steel distance thermometer for taking oil and air temperatures in aircraft which was patented in 1920.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\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. With the original lacquered finish to the brass in excellent condition. The rotating discs move well and display the readings correctly. The canvas case is in very good condition, with some marks.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e120mm (diameter), Canvas case: 140mm x 145mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46898090115223,"sku":null,"price":325.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Negretti1915extra-6_78c7bc06-8fd7-4928-bf21-5c769f0b337e.jpg?v=1770560907"},{"product_id":"charles-essex-pocket-sundial-compass-c-1825","title":"Charles Essex \u0026 Co. Georgian Sundial Compass (1825)","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Charles Essex \u0026amp; Co. Pocket Sundial Compass or Pantochronometer, dating from c.1825, and signed on the dial 'C. Essex \u0026amp; Co, London'. Charles Essex is known to have been in business as an optician in Clerkenwell, London between 1824 and 1828. This sundial compass has a wooden case with a domed push-fit lid, a paper compass card with a jewelled pivot, and a brass gnomon. The interior of the wooden case is painted red, and the compass card is protected by a domed glass cover.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of sundial compass - a floating sundial on a compass card - is also known as a Pantochronometer or 'Magnetic Dial'. The system was already in use in the 18th century, but the term \u003cspan style=\"font-style: italic;\"\u003ePantochronometer\u003c\/span\u003e was coined in the 1820's by Charles Essex, an optician whose shop was at 28 Gloucester Street, Clerkenwell, London. He is mentioned in an article published in \u003cem\u003eThe London Literary Gazette\u003c\/em\u003e on 17th December 1825, in which the Pantochronometer is decribed as 'one of those clever little philosophical instruments, the invention of which does credit to the ingenuity of modern science. It has been produced by Mr Charles Essex and is at once a curious and useful thing. In a box, about the size of a small snuff-box, are combined the machinery of a compass, sun-dial, and universal time-dial; and a compass card, a gnomon, and an indexed border, form the whole of the simple process. It is a desirable power to be able to pull this \"dial from your poke\" and ascertain at once what o'clock it is, the situation of the spot where you are, and the way you ought to go. We must say it is a very neat and ingenious production'. An advertisment in the same issue stated that 'Its novelty, elegance, construction, and scientific utility, render it peculiarly suitable for a New Year's gift, or Christmas present. Sold retail at Opticians, Stationers \u0026amp;c, and wholesale by Charles Essex \u0026amp; Co, 28 Gloucester Street, Clerkenwell, London'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eVarious other types of wooden domed-glass sundial compasses were produced in England in the first half of the 19th century - including the 'Magnetic Sundial' made by Samuel Porter in 1824. Elliot Brothers also produced a range of high quality brass-cased pocket sundials in the 1850s.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003eThanks to compassmuseum.com for the information about Charles Essex. Further details of sundial compass design, and the history of pocket sundial compasses, can be found at the excellent compassmuseum.com website\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e***Please note: the small white areas on the glass in the photographs are just reflections - there are no white marks on the glass. It is almost impossible to photograph a high-domed glass like this without reflections***\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn excellent condition, full working order and finds North well. The wooden case is in very good condition, with no damage, just minor signs of wear and use. The lid fits very well. The original domed glass is in very good condition. The compass card and gnomon are in very good condition. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: \u003cbr\u003ewooden case: 60mm diameter x 35mm height\u003cbr\u003ecompass card: 40mm diameter\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46928956948631,"sku":null,"price":525.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/CharlesEssexsundial-36_bd558db8-6550-442f-bfdb-3b84fe17f4d4.jpg?v=1771593180"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-plane-table-compass-sketching-board-c-1899","title":"J. H. Steward Plane Table Compass Sketching Board c.1910","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare J. H. Steward Military 'New' Plane Table Sketching Board, dating from c.1910. The 'New' Plane Table appeared in Steward military instrument catalogues from 1901 to 1910. Made of mahogany, with brass fittings and tripod attachment point, it comes with its original accessories -  the 'Simpson Reflecting Sight Ruler', and the 'Waterproof Canvas Case'. The Simpson Ruler first appeared in the 1910 Steward catalogue, and was no longer listed in the 1916 edition, so this plane table can be accurately dated to around 1910. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe design of this Plane Table is almost identical to the standard Verner's Patent Cavalry Sketching Board (various different versions were patented by Willoughby Verner between 1887-1891), but this example is much larger, 12 inches x 17.5 inches, with a working surface area of 10 inches x 14 inches. Most military Plane Tables were fairly basic boxwood drawing boards which could be fitted onto a tripod for use in the field. The Steward 'New' version included an integral compass, and side rollers to hold the drawing paper, that were more often seen on the Verner's sketching boards. It was described in the 1910 Steward catalogue as: 'a light plane table, made of mahogany, with wooden rollers to carry 3 yards of paper. The rollers have tension clamps to ensure the paper being kept flat. A bar needle compass is countersunk in the head of the board, with revolving direction line for setting to the working meridian'. The canvas case has leather reinforced edges, a leather shoulder strap, and a leather pouch for the Simpson Sight Ruler sewn into the interior of the case. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003ePlane Table:\u003c\/strong\u003e Plane tabling is a method of surveying which allows observations to be plotted directly on a map by a surveyor in the field. The plane table is unique among surveying instruments in surviving almost unchanged in form from its appearance c.1600 down to the present day. From the 18th century it was used as a way to produce a sketch map quickly, without requiring the transfer of notes and measurements from a notebook. The plane table consists essentially of a drawing board, the lower side of which is fitted with an attachment point for a tripod, and an alidade or sight-rule, which is a straight-edge fitted with sights. The alidade is used to sight objects required to be shown on the map and to record on the drawing paper the directions in which the objects lie relative to the point of observation. The plotting scales engraved on the alidade or sight-rule allowed the surveyor to prepare his map with the minimum of calculation. Some plane tables were fitted with an integral compass. From the late Victorian era to the end of the First World War plane tables were used by military officers for field sketching, map making, and reconnaissance.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCavalry Sketching Boards\u003c\/strong\u003e were essentially smaller and more portable versions of the plane table. Originally designed by Colonel W. H. Richards, who taught military surveying at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst c.1880, the sketching board was improved by Major Willoughby Verner who was also briefly Professor of Topography at Sandhurst. Verner patented his own improvements in 1887 and 1891 and the sketching board became generally known as the ‘Verner's'. W. J. Bosworth patented further improvements in 1897, and versions of the board remained in use until around 1930. They were produced by several scientific instrument makers, including Adie, J. H. Steward, Aston \u0026amp; Mander, Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo, A. Edgell \u0026amp; Co., and Houghton’s. Cavalry Sketching Boards were designed to be strapped to the arm of an officer or cavalryman on the bridle arm. The board was attached to the arm by a leather strap with a swivel joint. This enabled the user to twist the whole board on their arm to align the compass accurately. The board incorporated a compass for taking bearings, and the sketch was made on a paper roll which was wound around the side rollers. As a sketch was completed, the paper roll was advanced to supply more paper. Sketching boards were widely used during the Boer War and WW1. During WW1 the sketching board was often used by the artillery, cavalry, and pilots and observers of the Royal Flying Corps to make sketches of enemy positions and trenches.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSimpson Reflecting Sight Ruler \u003c\/strong\u003ewas designed by Lieutenant J. C. Simpson of the 4th Rajputs Battalion, British Indian Army, for use with cavalry sketching boards and plane tables. Its mirror and pin sighting arrangement was said to enable objects to be sighted more easily and with greater accuracy than other similar instruments. It had a short pin at one end, a folding sighting mirror at the other end, and was 10 inches long, with scales on the edges of 2 inches and six inches to the mile.\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:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn excellent condition and full working order, with minor signs of wear and use. The compass is in very good condition and finds North well. The canvas case is in very good condition, with general signs of wear and use, and some wear to the leather straps. The Simpson Sight Ruler is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBoard: 300mm x 440mm, \u003cbr\u003eCanvas Case: 330mm x 460mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47082640933015,"sku":null,"price":695.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Steward_Plane_Table_-_40.jpg?v=1773323464"},{"product_id":"antique-lever-focus-monocular-c-1895","title":"C. P. Goerz, Berlin, Lever Focus Monocular c.1904","description":"\u003cdiv style=\"box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(85, 85, 85); color: rgb(85, 85, 85); 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-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; text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; line-height: 24px;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"box-sizing: border-box; font-size: inherit;\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA very rare lever focus ‘Trieder' monocular, made by C. P. Goerz of Berlin, with  the serial number 58364, dating from c.1904. With a leather covered brass and aluminium body. The endplates are aluminium, held in place by three screws. There are no maker’s marks or date markings, but this monocular is identical to several other known examples signed by Goerz and with 1904 serial numbers very close to this one. Focusing is by means of a brass lever, which moves the eyepiece in and out. The eyecup is made of Bakelite and has no dioptre scale. The serial number ‘58364’ is stamped on the brass focus lever. The objective lens diameter is 24mm, magnification is 6x. This monocular may have seen WW1-era military use, as two other known examples (serial nos: 58350 and 58403) have British Army broad arrow markings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eC. P. Goerz, Berlin:\u003c\/strong\u003e Established by Carl Paul Goerz in 1886, trading in mathematical instruments. They began selling cameras in 1887 and producing them in 1888, with the company being renamed as Optische Anstalt C P Goerz in 1890. Goerz also produced scientific instruments, binoculars and gun sights, founding a separate military arm in 1903 that became the world's biggest military optical manufacturer. C P Goerz American Optical Co. was established in 1905 in New York as an independent company, which continued to operate until 1971. In 1908 a separate company 'Goerz Photochemisches Werk GmbH' was founded in Berlin-Zehlendorf, producing roll film and film for the movie industry. Goerz's reliance on military contracts led to financial difficulties after the first world war, and they were only saved from bankruptcy in 1926 by a merger with ICA, Contessa-Nettel and Ernemann to form Zeiss Ikon.\u003cbr\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition and full working order. The view through the monocular is very good, clear, with good focus and an unobstructed view. The focus lever moves smoothly, as does the eyepiece. The bakelite eyecup is in very good condition. The leather covering is securely attached and in very good condition, with a few marks.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDate: c.1895\u003cbr\u003eMaker: C. P. Goerz\u003cbr\u003eModel: Trieder\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 50mm x 80mm (95mm fully extended)\u003cbr\u003eMagnification: 6x\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47177640771735,"sku":null,"price":115.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Monocular-8.jpg?v=1773231454"},{"product_id":"verners-patent-cavalry-sketching-board-c-1899","title":"Verner's Patent Cavalry Sketching Board c.1899","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Verner’s Patent Cavalry Sketching Board, Serial No. 1046, made by 'Elliot Bros., London' c.1899. The board is stamped 'Verner's Patent' on the front left edge and ‘Elliot Bros., London' just below the clinometer on the rear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCavalry Sketching Boards were produced at the end of the 19th century by several other makers, including J. H. Steward and Aston \u0026amp; Mander. Steward catalogues published between 1896-1910 listed several different versions of the Verner's Patent board, describing it as the 'Improved Patent Cavalry Sketching Case' (1896), 'The Verner Improved Sketching Board with Clinometer' (1901), and the 'Verner Cavalry Sketching Board' (1910). All three versions offered the option of having the board fitted with the Zigzag Ruler - 'an attachment fitted to the board to prevent the ruler getting lost, and at the same time to permit lines to be drawn on any part of the paper in any direction'. By the time the 1916 catalogue was produced, the Zigzag ruler was no longer listed as an option, with the ruler now being held in place by rubber bands.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Elliot version of the Verner’s Patent board is made of mahogany, boxwood and brass, and features a built-in compass, a ruler on an articulated 'Zigzag' brass arm, and a clinometer on the rear. It is quite unusual to find a Verner's that retains its original 'Zigzag' ruler, as these were often removed and lost. In the Steward catalogues it was described as 'a development of Colonel Richard's well known Sketching Case, having special tension rollers, and the Compass is divided to show every 10 degrees for setting the working meridian; also the following scales: inches and tenths, 4 inches to the mile, and six inches to the mile (to show every 50 yards), Horizontal Equivalent Normal. A boxwood semi-circular Clinometer is fitted on the back, with plumb bob that swings on a metal stud at back being pressed, and fixes on pressure being withdrawn from same'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Cavalry Sketching Board:\u003c\/strong\u003e was originally designed by Colonel W. H. Richards, who taught military surveying at the Royal Military Academy, Sandhurst c.1880. The board was revised and improved by Major Willoughby Verner, who was also briefly Professor of Topography at Sandhurst. Verner patented his own improvements in 1887 and 1891 and the sketching board became generally known as the ‘Verner's'. W. J. Bosworth patented further improvements in 1897, and versions of the board remained in use until around 1930. They were produced by several scientific instrument makers, including Adie, J. H. Steward, Elliot Bros., Aston \u0026amp; Mander, Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo, A. Edgell \u0026amp; Co., and Houghton’s.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCavalry Sketching Boards were designed to be strapped to the arm of an officer or cavalryman on the bridle arm. The board was attached to the arm by a leather strap with a swivel joint. This enabled the user to twist the whole board on their arm to align the compass accurately. The board incorporated a compass for taking bearings, and the sketch was made on a paper roll which was wound around one of the side rollers. As a sketch was completed, the paper roll was advanced to supply more paper. Sketching boards were widely used during the Boer War and WW1. During WW1 the sketching board was often used by the artillery, cavalry, and pilots and observers of the Royal Flying Corps to make sketches of enemy positions and trenches.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eElliot Brothers:\u003c\/strong\u003e was established at Gray's Inn in London by William Elliot (1781-1853) as a maker of drawing instruments. By 1807 he had moved to High Holborn, and by 1816 he was manufacturing items such as telescopes and barometers. In 1830 he moved to 56 Strand and was joined in the business by his two sons, Frederick Henry Elliot and Charles Alfred Elliot, and they expanded into producing a wide variety of scientific instruments. William Elliot died in 1853 and his sons continued the business as Elliot Brothers. In 1865 Charles Elliot retired and Frederick continued to run Elliot Brothers until his death in 1873, leaving the business to his wife. During the late 19th century the company also manufactured electrical instruments, and in 1893 they amalgamated with Theiler \u0026amp; Co. Telegraph and Instrument Makers. In 1900 the company moved to new premises at the Century Works in Lewisham. In 1916 a new company was formed - this was known as Elliot Brothers (London) Ltd and continued to produce scientific and mathemtcal instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe board, compass, ruler, and clinometer are in very good condition and good working order, with minor signs of wear and some marks. There are some marks and general signs of wear and use on the woodwork, and some marks to the articulated brass arm. The leather wrist strap attached to the rear of the board is in good condition, with general signs of wear.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: Board: 175mm x 245mm, Compass: 30mm diameter\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47354867482775,"sku":null,"price":295.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/VernerPatentSketchingBoard-48.jpg?v=1773779984"},{"product_id":"w-f-stanley-sandhurst-military-protractor-c-1895","title":"W. F. Stanley 'Sandhurst' Military Protractor c.1892","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare 'Sandhurst' Military Protractor, made by W. F. Stanley c.1892. Stamped 'Sandhurst Protractor, Stanley, Great Turnstile, Holborn, London' on the rear. There is also a name engraved on the protractor - 'A. C. H. Thomas'. This is Major Arthur Charles Henry Thomas (b.1859) of the 2nd Battalion Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. He was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant with the 81st Regiment of Foot in 1878. In 1881 the 81st Foot merged with the 47th Foot to become the Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. Thomas went on to serve in the UK, East Indies, Malta, and Crete, and in 1892 he was posted to the School of Military Engineering at Chatham to study Topography. Major Thomas retired from the army in 1902.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Sandhurst Protractor was intended for use by military cartographers and surveyors measuring slopes in the field. The protractor is made of boxwood and incorporates a brass plumb bob, set in a recess with a small catch holding it in place, attached to a length of cord. There are several different scales on the protractor - the main one on the front, plus horizontal equivalents for 25 ft contours, approximate gradients, scale of shade for given angle, etc. It comes complete with its original leather case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn his book \u003cem\u003eSurveying and Levelling Instruments\u003c\/em\u003e (1895) W. F. Stanley described the Sandhurst Protractor as: 'a military protractor adapted especially for topographical delineation. It is made of boxwood, upon which the protractor is cut, and has also one scale at the lower edge of six inches to a mile in yards, the tens of which are carried across to make parallels of 90 degrees, in the manner of an ordinary military protratctor. Over the back of the protractor is a scale which gives a standard for shading slopes of land upon topographical maps fron 2 to 35 degrees, also lines for contour shades. A small plummet is supplied with the instrument, the cord of which is passed through a hole in the centre from which the degrees are protracted. when the protractor is held up, degrees downwards, the cord of the plummet will pass over the degrees and indicate the angle at which it is held; by looking over the edge in this manner the angle of inclination of the land may be taken as with a clinometer'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eW. F. Stanley \u0026amp; Co. Ltd: \u003c\/strong\u003eWilliam Ford Stanley (1829 - 1909) 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\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 class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch4_8-5\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eStanley brought out the first catalogue of his products in 1864.\u003csup class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch4_8-6\"\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 class=\"reference\" id=\"cite_ref-cg-legacy_9-3\"\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. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAfter Stanley's death in 1909 the company continued to expand, moving to a factory in New Eltham (\u003ci\u003eThe Stanley Scientific Instrument Works\u003c\/i\u003e) in 1916.\u003csup id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch10_32-3\" class=\"reference\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eDuring WW1 the factory was requisitioned by the government.\u003csup id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch10_32-4\" class=\"reference\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eBetween the wars, W. F. Stanley continued to expand its position in the market place for quality surveying instruments, although it was requisitioned again by the British Government during WW2.\u003csup id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch10_32-5\" class=\"reference\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eAfter the war, the company continued to expand, participating in many large projects – the \u003cem\u003eRMS Queen Mary\u003c\/em\u003e and Royal Navy ships used the company's compasses and other navigational instruments.\u003csup id=\"cite_ref-akpan-ch10_32-6\" class=\"reference\"\u003e \u003c\/sup\u003eThe company finally went into liquidation in July 1999 – mainly due to decllining export orders, and the loss of Ministry of Defence orders following the end of the Cold War.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn very good condition and full working order, with minor signs of use, and some faint annotation to the scales on the rear. The leather case is in very good condition, with general signs of wear, and the inscription 'F. B. Main' [or possibly 'Major'] written in ink on the front. The name 'A. C. H. Thomas' is engraved near the top left hand edge of the protractor.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 65mm x 135mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47554864349335,"sku":null,"price":185.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Sandhurst_OneExtra_-_3.jpg?v=1774367012"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-verners-complete-sketching-instrument-c-1896","title":"J. H. Steward Verner's Complete Sketching Instrument c.1896","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare J. H. Steward Verner's Complete Sketching Instrument, dating from c.1896. The 'Verner's Complete Sketcher' appeared in Steward military instrument catalogues from c.1893 to 1916, and was intended for 'Prospecting and Military Use'. Made of boxwood, with brass sights, clinometer, and inset compass, it comes complete with its original fitted leather case. The 1899 Steward catalogue included the following testimonial from Major J. Burton Foster of the Royal Irish Regiment: 'I have very carefully examined and tried the compact little \"Complete Sketching Instrument\" designed by Captain W. Verner. With it anyone acquainted with Military Surveying can execute a reliable map in a rapid and very satisfactory mannner, independent of any extras save sketching case, pencil and India rubber. When proceeding on active service again, I shall take care one of these instruments forms part of my field kit'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSeveral versions of this instrument were produced by J. H. Steward under various names over the years, including 'The Complete Sketcher', 'Improved Complete Sketcher' (1896), 'The Verner Complete Sketching Instrument' (1901), 'Verner Rapid Sketcher' (1910), and the 'Verner Rapid Sketcher Mark II' (1916). This example combines elements of both the Mk I and Mk II Sketcher: the fixed sights of the MK I, and the compass positioned on the right hand side as seen in the Mk II - suggesting that the instrument was being continually developed and revised.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eApart from the Mark I type non-extending sights, this sketcher is essentially identical to the 'Improved' or 'Rapid' Mark II instruments. In the catalogues it was described as having 'all the merits of the Mark I pattern with several improvements, which considerably increase its accuracy. At the same time very little has been added to the size of the instrument, the dimensions being 6 x 3 inches and 1\/4 inch thick, so that it can be conveniently carried in the breast pocket. The slightly larger protractor admits the use of a larger compass, giving more open divisions. The floating card dial is divided in a similar fashion to the dial in Mark I, and has a jewelled centre and also a locking stop.' The instrument also featured a clinometer, with 'a countersunk swinging plumb bob, controlled by an improved stop, which is released on pressing a button, and fixed on withdrawing the pressure'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLt-Colonel Willoghby Verner \u003c\/strong\u003e(1852-1922): was a British army officer and scientific instrument inventor who served on the staff in the Egyptian campaign of 1884-85 and during the Second Boer War. He retired as a Lt-Colonel in May 1904, having never fully recovered after being seriously injured at the battle of Graspan in November 1899. The earliest Verner designs were simple pocket compasses, before he developed an innovative prismatic version, with various models of his service pattern Mk III to Mk VII compass appearing between c.1900-1918. His prismatic 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. Verner was also briefly Professor of Topography at Sandhurst, inventing the 'Complete Sketching Instrument' and developing his own version of the Cavalry Sketching Board. He patented his improvements to the board in 1887 and 1891 and it became generally known as the ‘Verner's'. He had a long standing business relationship with J. H. Steward Ltd, and they produced versions of many of his instruments, including service compasses, plane tables, sketching boards, and the 'Complete Sketcher'.\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, and the company became one of the most important instrument manufacturers of the Victorian and Edwardian eras. 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:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn excellent condition and full working order, with minor signs of wear and use. The compass is in very good condition and finds North well. The clinometer is in full working order. The leather case is in very good condition, with minor signs of use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e75mm x 140mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47555063840919,"sku":null,"price":335.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Verner_Complete_26-3_-_11.jpg?v=1774536866"},{"product_id":"s-l-rotary-map-measurer-box-c-1910","title":"Societe des Lunetiers 'Universal' Map Measurer c.1910","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eAn antique 'S-L' (Societe des Lunetiers) 'Universal' map measurer, made in France, and dating from the early 20th century. With a nickel plated brass case, 35mm diameter white dial, blued needle, and a removable screw threaded handle. Also known as an Opisometer, this is an instrument for measuring lengths or distances on maps, with the dial calibrated in 1\/2 inches to the mile and centimeteres to the kilometre. Although mainly intended for use with maps, it can also be used to measure distances on any flat surface. Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son made similar instruments at around the same time, and their version was known as 'The Rotameter'. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eThis instrument was made in France for export to the British market and is marked on the back of the case with the Societe des Lunetiers 'S-L' logo. It comes complete with its original cardboard box with instruction labels.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSociete des Lunetiers: \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a French company based in Paris producing optical and scientific instruments. The company was established in 1849 when three different businesses joined forces  to formthe 'Association Fraternelle des Ouvriers Lunetiers', an arrangement which existed until the late 1860's. It was then renamed 'Essel' (based on 'S-L', an abbreviation of 'Societe des Lunetiers') and operated from a group of small Parisian shops. The original company logo featured the letters S and L on either side of a candelabra, the modernized early 20th century version as seen on this instrument is a simplified design dating from c.1907. By 1930 S-L had several factories throughout France, one of the most important was La Compasserie (the compass maker), located in Ligny-en-Barrois in Lorraine. S-L also had a shop in London, at 56 Hatton Garden. In 1972 S-L merged with Silor to become the Essilor group.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eCondition:\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003eIn very good condition and full working order. The box is in very good condition, with minor signs of wear.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan class=\"Normal-C-C0\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 35mm (diameter), length including handle: 118mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47572233552023,"sku":null,"price":59.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/SLMapMeasurer-47.jpg?v=1774899100"},{"product_id":"spindler-hoyer-junior-microscope-c-1925","title":"Spindler \u0026 Hoyer 'Junior' Microscope c.1925","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn antique Spindler \u0026amp; Hoyer ‘Junior’ microscope, made in Gottingen, Germany c.1925. It was decribed in catalogues of the time as being 'perfect for travel and fieldwork’. This model was in production from c.1920 - c.1925. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a well-known Spindler \u0026amp; Hoyer design which featured in London scientific instrument retailers catalogues in the 1920s, including those of John J. Griffin Ltd and Baird \u0026amp; Tatlock Ltd.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe pocket microscope is stored in a black oxydised-finish cylindrical brass case, marked ‘Germany’ on the bottom of the case and under the stage, and 'Junior' on the top of the case. The upper section of the cylinder is screwed off and the microscope can then be unscrewed from the lower section. The three legs are then attached to form the tripod stand. The three objective lenses are screw threaded to the end of the body, and the three components can be added or subtracted to vary the magnification. This system was very similar to the late 19th century ‘Drum’ type microscopes. The microscope is focused by sliding the body tube up or down in a pressure-fit sleeve. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDrum Pattern Pocket or Field Microscope:\u003c\/strong\u003e This type of simple field microscope, featuring a large mirror opening, a rotating mirror, extendable eyepiece, and a slide viewing platform, was invented by Benjamin Martin, an English scientific instrument maker in the middle of the 18th century. Martin is believed to have produced several versions of this type of microscope between the 1750s and his death in 1782. In the mid-19th century the drum microscope was popularized by the instrument maker Georg Oberhausser, who was based in Paris from the 1830s. These microscopes would typicaly have been used in the field by amateur geologists, botanists and other scientists.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSpindler \u0026amp; Hoyer: \u003c\/strong\u003eThe Spindler \u0026amp; Hoyer optical company was established in 1898 by Julius Adolf Hoyer (1874-1943) and August Spindler (1870-1927). They produced an extensive range of optical instruments, including microscopes and binoculars, and during WW1 and WW2 they were one of the main suppliers of binoculars to the German army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn very good condition, with minor signs of use, some marks to the black finish of the case, and some wear to the mirror. In full working order.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMicroscope width (Legs attached): 120mm\u003cbr\u003eMicroscope height: 150mm\u003cbr\u003eCase Length: 135mm\u003cbr\u003eCase diameter: 38mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47661578518679,"sku":null,"price":245.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Spindler_HoyerMicroscope-37.jpg?v=1776083656"},{"product_id":"lawrence-mayo-amulet-art-deco-sunglasses-c-1920","title":"Lawrence \u0026 Mayo 'Amulet' Art Deco Sunglasses c.1920","description":"\u003cp\u003eLawrence \u0026amp; Mayo 'Amulet' Glare Protector sunglasses, dating from c.1920. Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo operated from their 67-69 Chancery Lane, London premises from 1877 until the early 1920s, before moving in 1925 to their new headquarters at 19 New Oxford Street. The Chancery Lane address on the silk lining inside the leather case shows that these sunglasses were made before 1925. This iconic and highly collectible art deco design was extremely fashionable in the 1920s - Queen Mary was photographed wearing the Amulet Glare Protectors at the Wimbledon Tennis Championships in 1923. Although now more than 100 years old, these antique Amulet sunglasses are fully functional and ready for use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Amulet Glare Protectors have a steel frame, grey-green glass lenses, spring-loaded 'Vulcanite' side panels, and detachable metal arms. They are marked ‘Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo, Patent’ on the inside of the side panels. The instruction leaflet describes the procedure to fit the side arms: 'To adjust the curled sides or arms to the vulcanite wings of the \"Amulet\", simply slide the cross bar of the side under the spring. As the use of the arms is only necessary when the \"Amulet\" is worn while on horseback or for games, they can be kept in the case until required for such purposes'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eComplete with their very rare original Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo maroon morocco leather covered case, with blue velvet and cream silk lining, and instruction leaflet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLawrence \u0026amp; Mayo: \u003c\/strong\u003ewere established in London in 1877 by optician Sydney Solomon Lawrence in partnership with the Mayo family. They traded as high quality opticians and jewellers from Lawrence’s 67-69 Chancery Lane address in London. The business expanded quickly, with branches worldwide, opening their first Indian branch in Calcutta in 1877. Further offices and showrooms were opened across India, followed by Cairo, Spain, Portugal, Colombo, Rangoon, and Singapore. Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo went on to produce a wide variety of scientific instruments, including binoculars, telescopes, meterological instruments, and compasses. Customers included Viceroys, Royalty and prominent figures - including Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Queen Mary. By 1897 the business was solely owned by Sydney Lawrence, who was still operating from the Chancery Lane premises. By 1925 the business had moved to 19 New Oxford Street, London. In July 1938 Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo was incorporated under the Indian Companies Act as a Private Limited Company, and most of the Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo outlets worldwide were rebranded. In 1943 Lawrence \u0026amp; Mayo India was acquired by an employee, Isidore C. Mendonsa, who retained the brand name, and the company became wholly Indian owned in 1967.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn very good condition, with minor signs of use. In full working order. The spring-loaded side panels are functioning very well, with good strong springs. The frame, arms, and nose pieces are in very good condition. The lenses are in excellent condition. There is some wear and marking to the leather covering of the case. The original instruction leaflet is in good condition, with general signs of wear.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eWidth: 115mm\u003cbr\u003eArm Length: 65mm\u003cbr\u003eLens size: 40mm x 30mm\u003cbr\u003eCase Length: 120mm\u003cbr\u003eCase width: 48mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47670154985623,"sku":null,"price":295.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Amulet-58.jpg?v=1776288214"},{"product_id":"edwardian-pocket-altimeter-barometer-c-1910","title":"Edwardian Pocket Altimeter Barometer c.1905","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn Edwardian pocket altimeter barometer, dating from c.1905. Intended for use by soldiers, explorers, mountaineers, balloonists, or travellers. The revolving altitude scale is calibrated from zero to 10,000 feet, and the dial has additional 'Rain', 'Change', and 'Fair' markings. With a gilt brass case, blued needle, rotating bezel with altitude scale, and an adjustment screw on the rear. Complete with its original velvet and silk lined morocco leather covered case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are no maker's or retailers marks, but this is a high quality instrument, produced by one of the best makers of the time, such as J. H. Steward or Francis Barker. Steward described this type of barometer as the 'Military Surveying Aneroid' in their catalogues of the 1890s and 1900s. Barker was a prolific maker of pocket barometers from the Victorian era through to the early 20th century, and almost all of Barker's barometers were supplied unsigned to the retail trade, with the retailer often adding their own details to the dial.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis aneroid barometer, along with a Verner's compass and several other items, was part of a set of navigation instruments owned by Captain P. F. M. Michelli, a regular army officer, who served with the Royal Engineers during WW1. The Verner's compass was inscribed 'P. F. M. Michelli, Eton College, 1905'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The gilt brass case is in very good condition. The bevelled glass, dial and pointer are in very good condition. The leather case has general signs of wear, wear to the silk lining, some old repairs, and is missing the top part of the push-button catch.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e45mm diameter (leather case: 60mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47720930214039,"sku":null,"price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Barometer-26.jpg?v=1777141155"},{"product_id":"negretti-zambra-altimeter-barometer-compass-c-1900","title":"Negretti \u0026 Zambra Altimeter Barometer Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra pocket barometer compass combination, serial number 12343, dating from c.1890. With a brass case, blued needle, rotating bezel with altitude scale, adjustment screw, and an inset Francis Barker compass to the rear of the case. Catalogues of the time described these instruments as intended for use by soldiers, explorers, mountaineers, balloonists, or travellers. The dial is calibrated from 21-31 inches and is also marked 'Compensated', with additional 'Rain', 'Change', and 'Fair' markings. The revolving altitude scale is calibrated from zero to 10,000 feet. Complete with its original green velvet and silk lined morocco leather covered case, which has a cut-out window to the rear to allow the compass dial to be viewed without opening the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNegretti \u0026amp; Zambra:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cspan\u003eNegretti \u0026amp; Zambra of London were highly successful scientific and optical Instrument makers and retailers throughout the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Henry Negretti (1818-1879) and Joseph Zambra (1822-1897) formed their partnership in 1850. The company produced scientific and optical instruments and also had a photographic studio based in London. They were appointed opticians and scientific instrument makers to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, Prince Albert, King Edward VII, the Royal Observatory and the British Admiralty. Henry Negretti was the first man to take aerial photographs of London from a balloon. Throughout World War One Negretti and Zambra produced instruments for the Ministry of Munitions and developed many aviation instruments for the Air Ministry.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The brass case is in very good condition. The bevelled glass, dial and pointer are in very good condition. The inset Francis Barker compass to the rear is in very good condition and finds North well. The leather case is in very good condition, with minor signs of wear. The push-button from the snap-closure lid catch is missing, but the catch still works.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e45mm diameter (leather case: 58mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47818682892439,"sku":null,"price":495.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Negretti_barometer_extras_-_14.jpg?v=1778763425"},{"product_id":"optical-square-c-1905","title":"Optical Square Rangefinder c.1905","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn Optical Square rangefinder, dating from c.1905, complete with its original fitted leather case. Reputed to have been invented by George Adams Senior in the middle of the 18th century, the optical square appeared in the 1795 catalogue of George Adams Junior as 'A small instrument for surveying by right angles'. In the 1907 Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra catalogue it was described as being used 'for fixing a right angle, and in the laying off of offsets'. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA small, portable surveying and engineering instrument used to set out or measure precise right angles, the optical square utilizes two mirrors within a circular brass box case to reflect light, allowing a user to sight a target at a 90 degree angle to their current line of sight.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere are no maker's or retailers marks, but this is a high quality instrument, produced by one of the best makers of the time, such as J. H. Steward, Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, or Francis Barker. (almost all of Barker's instruments were supplied unsigned to the retail trade).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis optical square, along with a Verner's compass and several other items, was part of a set of navigation instruments owned by Captain P. F. M. Michelli, a regular army officer, who served with the Royal Engineers during WW1. The Verner's compass was inscribed 'P. F. M. Michelli, Eton College, 1905'.\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 case is in very good condition. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e55mm diameter x 25mm height, (leather case: 70mm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":47822820114583,"sku":null,"price":75.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/files\/Opticalsquare-26.jpg?v=1778688005"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/collections\/Barometer_Collection_pic_-_1.jpg?v=1505290138","url":"https:\/\/www.compasslibrary.com\/en-it\/collections\/scientific-instruments.oembed?page=7","provider":"Compass Library","version":"1.0","type":"link"}