A Francis Barker & Son hunter cased, nickel-plated brass pocket compass, dating from c.1910-1926. Although there are no maker’s marks, this particular design was only made by Barker, and featured in their catalogues and brochures from the start of the 20th century as model No. 3002, 'The Explorer'. It was described as having a 'Bronzed spring hunter case, metal dial, raised graduated ring, bar needle, agate cap and stop'.
This compass has a nickel-plated brass hunter case which would originally have had a 'Bronzed' finish - this has worn away on the exterior of the case, but is very well preserved inside the lid. With a bevelled glass, metal compass card, English bar needle on a jewelled pivot, and a transit lock operated when the lid is closed. Barker supplied many of their compasses unsigned to the retail trade, often - as seen in this example - with just 'Made in England' engraved on the compass card.
Francis Barker & Son: 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 & Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many other smaller businesses. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker & Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now owned by Pyser-Optics. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.
Condition:
The compass is in very good condition, full working order, and finds North well. The case has a few marks, and most of the original 'Bronzed' finish has been polished or worn away, revealing the nickel plating underneath. The metal compass card, glass, and bar needle are all in very good condition. The transit lock is working well. The case opens and closes very well, opening with a push-button at the loop. ‘Made in England’ is engraved across the centre of the metal compass card.
Dimensions : 48mm (70mm including loop)
