{"title":"COMPASS","description":"","products":[{"product_id":"antique-compass","title":"'Warranted London Made' Victorian Compass c.1860","description":"\u003cp\u003eA lovely example of a mid-Victorian brass box compass. This is a very rare antique pocket compass, with the highly unusual and distinctive 'Warranted London Made' inscription on the beautifully hand-drawn compass card. The card has a jewelled pivot. The brass case is in good condition and the lid fits very well. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. It has a working transit lock operated by a sliding button on the side of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition and full working order, with some wear and a few marks to the finish of the brass case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 77mm (diameter) x 30mm (depth)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":373615317,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Warranted_compass2.jpg?v=1493284824"},{"product_id":"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":"james-parkes-early-victorian-wooden-box-compass-c-1840","title":"James Parkes Early Victorian Wooden Box Compass c.1850","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare early Victorian mahogany cased compass by the well known Birmingham scientific instrument maker, James Parkes. James Parkes was a manufacturer of telescopes who founded his company in 1839.  He was succeeded by his son and the company was renamed James Parkes \u0026amp; Son. Both companies traded from 5, St. Mary’s Row, Birmingham. Parkes's very distinctive trademark was a human left eye shown open together with an eyebrow. The company exhibited their scientific instruments, including a variety of pocket compasses, at the 1851 Great Exhibition in London. In their 1859 catalogue the company were described as 'Instrument Makers to the Board of Trade'. The company was still operating in 1908, under the ownership of Samuel Hickling Parkes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good, original condition and full working order. It finds north very well. The hand-drawn compass card is in very good condition. There is an automatic transit lock operated by a small pin which locks the needle when the lid is closed.  The compass needle has lost some of its original blued finish. The wooden case is in good condition, with a lovely patina, strong hinges and locking clasp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e75mm x 75mm x 20mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1326198264,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/James_Parkes08.jpg?v=1492587281"},{"product_id":"w-gregory-co-british-army-marching-compass-c-1900","title":"W. Gregory \u0026 Co. British Army Marching Compass c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn excellent example of an English military marching compass dating from c.1893-1904. This is a very rare and unusual design, I have only seen one other example. The 'W', 'E' and 'S' markings on the glass and the red War Office broad arrow or 'crow's foot' mark at the North point on the compass card are features that mark this out as a particularly rare compass. The hand drawn paper compass card has the retailer's name: 'W. Gregory \u0026amp; Co, 51 Strand, London'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe broad arrow marking and Gregory's well-known association with the British Army strongly suggests that this compass was intended for military use, most probably during the Boer War. As Gregory died in 1904, it is reasonable to assume that the compass was made around the turn of the century. The compass has a hand-drawn paper card, with a red broad arrow at the north point, a jewelled pivot, and a brass hunter case. There is an automatic transit lock which engages when the lid is in place. There would have been a paper sighting marker attached to the inside of the lid, but this is no longer present.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWilliam Gregory (1837-1904)\u003c\/strong\u003e was a notable military photographer and optician who worked from this address from c.1881 until his death in 1904. One of his advertisments from 1885 described the business as 'Optician to H. M. Government (War Dept.), the National Rifle Association, etc'. In 1889 Gregory was forced to file for bankruptcy, and his business was taken over by Samuel Smith \u0026amp; Sons, with Gregory staying on as manager. During the 1890s Gregory established himself as a successful photographer of military subjects, and examples of his glass negatives and photographs can be seen at the National Army Museum. As Gregory died in 1904, this compass must have been made between 1881 and 1904, probably by one of the best London makers, such as Francis Barker. Gregory was not a compass maker, and would have bought items such as this wholesale from makers like Barker, signing them with the company name, before selling them in his shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition and finds north well. The automatic transit lock is working perfectly. The compass card is in very good condition. The original glass is in very good condition. The brass case is in good condition, with a few marks and minor signs of age and wear. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 47mm diameter (excluding loop, 70mm including loop)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1326835852,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Boer_War_Gregory05.jpg?v=1490176068"},{"product_id":"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":"francis-barker-indian-army-singers-patent-compass-c-1860","title":"Francis Barker Indian Army Singer's Patent Compass c.1868","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn extremely rare (possibly unique) compass, made by Francis Barker in the 1860s for the British Army in India. This compass is exceptionally unusual in that it is not only signed by Barker, it is also marked 'Stanley, London' on the compass card and features the official War Office broad arrow or 'crow's foot' mark. The broad arrow appears above a capital letter 'I', denoting  that this compass was issued to the Indian Army.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe paper compass card is hand drawn in the classic Singer's design, and marked 'Singer's Patent', although without a serial number, which dates the compass to around the time the patent elapsed in 1868. The date of the compass can be narrowed down further as the card is also marked 'Trade Mark London', with the letter 'S' the right way round, identifying it as having been made before the end of 1875 (the 'S' was reversed after the death of Francis Barker in December 1875). It has a jewelled pivot and nickel plated brass hunter case, with a transit lock which operates when the lid is closed. The compass even retains the original leather strap, which would have been used to attach it to an officer's tunic or belt.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #6fa8dc;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer\u003c\/strong\u003e (1796 - c.1875)\u003c\/span\u003e was a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition and full working order. The leather strap shows signs of wear and age.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 48mm (65mm including loop)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1366050372,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Singers_Indian_army_-_25.jpg?v=1519215519"},{"product_id":"early-francis-barker-rgs-pattern-pocket-compass-pre-1875","title":"Francis Barker 'RGS' Pattern Pocket Compass c.1875","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Francis Barker 'R.G.S.' Pattern pocket compass, dating from before 1875. This type of compass card design was mentioned in the Royal Geographical Society's \u003cem\u003eHints to Travellers\u003c\/em\u003e in 1871. This compass was produced by Francis Barker before the end of 1875, as it is stamped with the Barker pre-1875 style Trademark (with the letter 'S' facing the correct way round). This design was produced with either a paper or aluminium compass card. This example has the aluminium version. The design was registered by Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son Ltd in 1903, and after that date the registered number was usually printed on the card. Versions of this design were still appearing in scientific instrument catalogues in the late 1920s (J.H. Steward featured several examples in their 1928 catalogue). The compass has a blackened brass case, aluminium compass card in almost pristine condition, red dot North point, and jewelled pivot. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. It is clearly stamped with the Barker pre-1875 trademark on the bottom of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition and full working order. The compass card is in lovely condition. The case retains much of its 'oxidised' finish, and the original glass is in good condition, with just a tiny, repaired crack at the edge under the friction ring.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 36mm (56mm including loop)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1403807620,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_RGS_187507.jpg?v=1493641467"},{"product_id":"victorian-pocket-compass-c-1870","title":"Victorian Pocket Compass c.1870","description":"\u003cp\u003eA delicate and unusually small mid-Victorian leather cased pocket compass. This is a quite a rare antique compass, as this type of compass is not often seen in this compact size (27mm diameter). With a distinctive 19th century English blued needle and detailed compass card. The needle has gilt North and South markers and a brass pivot. In its original, blue velvet lined, morocco leather case. The case is in good condition, with the leather covering missing from the base. The rest of the leather covering is complete and in good condition. The original glass is in very good condition. The compass is in full working order and finds North well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition and full working order, with the leather covering missing from the base of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 27mm (diameter)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":15099491268,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Tiny_victorian09.jpg?v=1491585863"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-educational-prismatic-compass","title":"Francis Barker Educational Prismatic Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very good example of a Francis Barker prismatic educational compass, dating from around the 1980's. With a jewelled pivot, screw-down transit lock, wooden case, and aluminium compass card. This model of educational compass was originally produced by Barker in the late 19th century. This compass is virtually identical to the early versions, the only major difference being that the 19th century ones had a paper compass card rather than the aluminium card found in this model. Details of the original model can be found in Paul Crespel's excellent book \u003cem\u003eTrade mark London\u003c\/em\u003e, (p.88)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn excellent condition and full working order. The transit lock works perfectly, the glass is unmarked and the wooden case is in exellent condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: 100mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":32341680264,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barkere_educational_-_12.jpg?v=1493285480"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-pocket-compass","title":"J. H. Steward Pocket Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass cased J. H. Steward pocket compass,  dating from c.1890-1928. The compass card is marked 'J. H. Steward Ltd, London'. This design was still being produced in the 1920's and several versions were offered for sale in Steward's 1928 catalogue. The card design was a development of the classic Singer's Patent design of the 1860's. The compass features a hand drawn paper compass card with red 'N' marker, agate jewelled pivot, manual transit lock, bevelled glass, and an oxidised finish brass case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJames Henry Steward\u003c\/strong\u003e established his business in London in 1852. As a maker and retailer of optical, scientific, military and surveying instruments. J.H. Steward was the head optician of the company and had businesses at 406 Strand, 457 West Strand and 54 Cornhill in London. In the mid 1800s he became the optician to Her Majesty's Government and the National Rifle, and National Artillery Associations. James Henry Steward died in 1896. J. H. Steward Ltd was incorporated in 1912 and continued in business until the middle of the 20th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition and finds north well. There is some wear to the original oxidised finish of the case. The transit lock works perfectly. The compass card and original glass are in good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 38mm (58 including loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":33064903240,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/J_H_Steward_compass_-_5.jpg?v=1543504317"},{"product_id":"verners-service-pattern-compass-mk-vi","title":"Verner's Service Pattern Compass Mk VI","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare early version of the MK VI Verner's Service Pattern prismatic military compass, signed by Robert Ballantine of Glasgow, and dating from c.1908. Ballantine, who set up his business in 1908 at 99 St Vincent St, Glasgow (the address marked on the base of the compass), would have been the retailer, with the compass most probably having been made by either F. Barker \u0026amp; Son or J. H. Steward. This compass is in extraordinarly fine condition, pretty much as good as the day it was sold. There is virtually no wear at all to any part of the compass, with the original oxidised and lacquered finishes in near mint condition. It is in perfect working order. It is exceptionally unusual to find a Verner's compass in what can only be described as museum condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Verner's MK VI was produced between c.1905-1914, but had been replaced by the MK VII by the start of WW1. The aluminium compass card features black hand-painted markers over a luminous paint background. This type of luminous paint, most probably a version of 'Balmain's Luminous Paint' was a compound of calcium sulphide. The paint was made luminous by exposure to sunlight or, as suggested in the instruction booklet, by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon near the compass card. It was patented in England in 1877 by William Balmain, and was often used in compasses, before the introduction of radium paint rendered it obsolete just before WW1. This compass may well have been an officer's private purchase item, but from its condition it was clearly never used. The compass comes complete with its original fitted leather case and shoulder strap, and the original, extremely rare, instruction booklet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRobert Ballantine\u003c\/strong\u003e: In the late 19th century the Ballantine family were involved in the business of J. Lizars, a well established Glasgow opticians. Matthew Ballantine took over the running of the company in 1882. They expanded into selling photographic items around this time, starting to manufacture cameras around 1896. In 1908 Robert Ballantine retired from the Lizars Buchanan St. business and set up in business under his own name at 99 St Vincent St, Glasgow as an optician and photographic dealer. The Glasgow business of Lizars continued under the management of Matthew Ballantine junior and Arthur Ballantine, both sons of Matthew Ballantine senior.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLt-Colonel William Willoughby Cole Verner (1852-1922)\u003c\/strong\u003e served on the staff in the Egyptian campaign of 1884-85 and during the Boer War. He retired as a Lt-Colonel in May 1904. The earliest Verner designs were simple pocket compasses, with the various models of the Service Pattern, MK III to MK VII, appearing between c.1900-1918. His prismatic service compasses were essentially a development of the Schmalcalder patent design of the early 19th century, but they remained the standard service compass of the British Army until the start of WW2. As well as designing compasses, Verner was a prolific author, military historian, and chronicler of the Rifle Brigade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in near mint condition and full working order. There is some minor wear to the original leather case. The instruction booklet has been folded to fit in the case, but is otherwise in good condition. Overall, an exceptional, museum quality MK VI Verner's. It would be almost impossible to find a better example.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 52mm (case diameter, 72mm inc. prism)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34158616712,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Compass_Library_photos_1-16_-_80.jpg?v=1493754052"},{"product_id":"ross-co-brass-box-pocket-compass","title":"Ross \u0026 Co. Brass Box Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass box Ross \u0026amp; Co. pocket compass, with a press fit lid, dating from c.1890-1900. This compass features a brass case with lid, bevelled glass, paper compass card, English bar needle and jewelled pivot. There is an automatic transit lock operated by a tiny lever on the edge of the case. The compass card is signed by Ross of London. An almost identical, unsigned, compass can be seen on p.26 of \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e by Kornelia Takacs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eRoss \u0026amp; Co, London\u003c\/strong\u003e: Andrew Ross (1798–1859) founded the company in 1830 at Wigmore Street in London, and from 1840 he began producing camera lenses signed \"A. Ross\". During his lifetime, the company was one of the foremost British lens manufacturers. After Andrew's death in 1859 his son-in-law, J. H. Dallmeyer, left the firm to establish his own optical company. From 1860 onwards the company was run by Thomas Ross, and became known as Ross \u0026amp; Co. By the 1890s Ross were making Zeiss and Goerz lenses under licence for sale in the UK and the British Empire. Before WW1 Ross and Zeiss worked quite closely together, and at the outbreak of war the British Government put Ross in control of the newly opened Carl Zeiss binocular and optical factory in Mill Hill, London. From around the start of the 20th century Ross \u0026amp; Co. were known as suppliers of optical, scientific and nautical instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition and good working order and finds North well. There is a little dust under the glass, a few marks on the compass card, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the case. The automatic transit lock is activated when the lid is replaced and is in perfect working order. The lid fits perfectly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 45mm x 12mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34556009160,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Ross_london_-_14.jpg?v=1492466214"},{"product_id":"r-bailey-of-birmingham-pocket-compass","title":"R. Bailey of Birmingham, Pocket Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA fine brass box pocket compass, signed by R. Bailey, 14 Bennett's Hill, Birmingham, dating from c.1880-1900. This compass features a brass case with press-fit lid, aluminium compass card, English bar needle and a jewelled pivot. It originally had an automatic transit lock operated by a lever on the edge of the case, but the lifting arm is now missing. In all other respects the compass is in excellent working order. The compass card is signed 'R. Bailey, 14 Bennetts Hill, Birmingham'. A high quality compass, it would have been produced by one of the best maker's of the time and retailed by Bailey from their Birmingham shop.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eR. Bailey, Birmingham\u003c\/strong\u003e: Established in Birmingham in the 19th century, R. Bailey were a firm of opticians. During the 1890's they advertised their services as the official optician to the Birmingham and Midland Eye Hospital. R. Bailey were active between c.1880-1900.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition and working order and finds North well. There are a few small marks on the compass card and some marks on the needle. The automatic transit lock is no longer operational. The brass case is in very good condition and the lid fits perfectly.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 70mm x 15mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":34984348680,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Bennets_compass_-_12.jpg?v=1493060038"},{"product_id":"ww1-war-poets-compass","title":"WW1 War Poet's Compass","description":"This compass is engraved with the name and regimental details of it's original owner, \u003cstrong\u003eCaptain Richard Molesworth Dennys (1884-1916)\u003c\/strong\u003e, one of the forgotten poets of the First World War. His initials are also stamped on the matching leather case. The compass will come with a very rare first edition of Richard Dennys collected poems, \u003cem\u003eThere is No Death\u003c\/em\u003e, published by The Bodley Head in 1917. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe compass is a rare Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son design known as \"The Guide\", which was a development of the \"Glow Needle\" design patented by the company in June 1906. \"The Guide\" combined features from several different Barker patents and first appeared in 1907. It was not standard military issue, and would have been a private purchase item, quite distinct from the Verner's Patent prismatic service compass which most officers carried. It was most probably acquired by Captain Dennys sometime between late 1914 and his departure for France in July 1915. With it large luminous-painted needle and robust hunter case it would have been well suited to use in the trenches. It would almost certainly have been with Richard Dennys on his last day in the front line on the Somme in July 1916, as he looked down the slope towards the vast mine crater outside La Boiselle.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDuring WW1 \u003cstrong\u003eRichard Dennys\u003c\/strong\u003e served with 'A' Company of the 1\u003cstrong\u003e0th Loyal North Lancashire Regiment.\u003c\/strong\u003e Before the war he had studied medicine at St Bartholemew's Hospital in London, qualifying as a Doctor in 1909. But he never practised, and by the summer of 1914 he was in Florence working in Gordon Craig's theatre school. As soon as war broke out he returned to England intending to join the Royal Army Medical Corps. For some reason he was told that medical men were 'not required' at the moment, so he sought a commission elsewhere and joined the 10th Loyal North Lancashire Regiment. To the surprise of his friends, he proved to be an exceptional soldier, promoted to Captain before the end of 1914 and being given command of a Company within a few months of his arrival in France. As his first Company Commander wrote: \"He was such a fine type. . . a splendid officer, for that I can better vouch than anybody else.\" And his friend and fellow officer Desmond Coke wrote: \"No work was too hard, no physical misery too great for him, if it made for the comfort or welfare of his men.\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRichard Dennys had been a poet long before the First World War. When his collected work was published in \u003cem\u003eThere is No Death\u003c\/em\u003e (Bodley Head, 1917), several of his early poems were included. E. A. Osborn felt that some of them bore comparison to the work of Robert Louis Stevenson, sharing that great writer's \"sincerity and simplicity”. Like Wilfred Owen and many of the other war poets, Richard Dennys' life, and his art, seem to have been brought into sharp focus by the war, inspiring him to create his best work. As E. A. Osborn wrote in \u003cem\u003eThe New Elizabethans\u003c\/em\u003e, a study of some of the lesser-known poets of the war, published in 1919, \"But for the War we might never have known the true worth of Richard Dennys.\" During his year at the front, he produced several fine poems, including \u003cem\u003eBallads From Belgium\u003c\/em\u003e, which has echoes of Sassoon and Owen:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e'Last night within the crowded trench\u003cbr\u003eI and a friend lay side by side,\u003cbr\u003eWaiting through fitful dreams for dawn\u003cbr\u003eTo bring the flood of battle-tide.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eTo-night upon the moon drenched plain,\u003cbr\u003e'Mid those who did not fear to die,\u003cbr\u003eThe friend I loved is lying still,\u003cbr\u003eHis wide eyes staring at the sky.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThese lines, describing a dream of a ghostly column of dead soldiers, are reminiscent of Owen's \u003cem\u003eStrange Meeting\u003c\/em\u003e:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e'Before my eyes there passed a throng,\u003cbr\u003eA pale procession of the lately dead.\u003cbr\u003eHaggard with blood and sweat they moved along'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cem\u003eBetter Far to Pass Away\u003c\/em\u003e is the poem for which Richard Dennys is best remembered today:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eBetter Far to Pass Away\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e While the limbs are strong and young,\u003cbr\u003e Ere the ending of the day,\u003cbr\u003e Ere Youth’s lusty song be sung.\u003cbr\u003e Hot blood pulsing through the veins,\u003cbr\u003e Youth’s high hope a burning fire,\u003cbr\u003e Young men needs must break the chains\u003cbr\u003e That hold them from their heart’s desire.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e My friends the hills, the sea, the sun,\u003cbr\u003e The winds, the woods, the clouds, the trees-\u003cbr\u003e How feebly, if my youth were done,\u003cbr\u003e Could I, an old man, relish these !\u003cbr\u003e With laughter, then, I’ll go to greet\u003cbr\u003e What Fate has still in store for me,\u003cbr\u003e And welcome Death if we should meet,\u003cbr\u003e And bear him willing company.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e My share of fourscore years and ten\u003cbr\u003e I’ll gladly yield to any man,\u003cbr\u003e And take no thought of \"where\" or \"when,\"\u003cbr\u003e Contented with my shorter span,\u003cbr\u003e For I have learned what love may be,\u003cbr\u003e And found a heart that understands,\u003cbr\u003e And known a comrade’s constancy,\u003cbr\u003e And felt the grip of friendly hands.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e Come when it may, the stern decree\u003cbr\u003e For me to leave the cheery throng,\u003cbr\u003e And quit the sturdy company\u003cbr\u003e Of brothers that I work among.\u003cbr\u003e No need for me to look askance,\u003cbr\u003e Since no regret my prospect mars.\u003cbr\u003e My day was happy and perchance\u003cbr\u003e The coming night is full of stars.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eJust before the start of the \u003cstrong\u003eBattle of the Somme\u003c\/strong\u003e on 1st July 1916, Richard Dennys wrote to Desmond Coke, who was in hospital with trench fever, describing a recent lucky escape:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"We've been having a fairly lively time in the trenches — two raids on the Boche by people close on our left with resulting bombardment on their part. Unpleasantly warm! My head-quarters dug-out was smashed to pieces the day before we took over, and during the 2nd bombardments the other to which I had repaired was buried in debris. A shell burst just near the door and you never saw such a mess! Bed a foot deep in earth, door blown in and utter confusion of all papers and things. Two shells through the mess kitchen and others in profusion all round. They have got Company H.Q. marked all right! There is much in the wind. You should have news of this part of the world at no distant date. . .\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis prediction proved to be very accurate. A few days into the battle, the 10th Loyal North Lancs were sent down to Albert and remained there in reserve. On 11th July they moved up to the trenches of the Tara Redoubt on Usna Hill, a low ridge directly opposite the German positions around La Boiselle. The battalion was ordered to send out offensive patrols with the aim of occupying enemy trenches near Contalmaison. Almost immediately, under sustained machine gun fire, they suffered heavy losses. On 12th July six officers became casualties, including Richard Dennys. He was evacuated to Hospital at Rouen where he died from his wounds on 24th July.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIt was a tragic end to a life full of promise, like countless others lost in that brutal summer of 1916. But at least Richard Dennys seems to have been at peace with himself. The poems he left behind show that he had come to terms with, and accepted, whatever fate awaited him.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\"With laughter, then, I'll go to greet\u003cbr\u003eWhat fate has still in store for me,\u003cbr\u003eAnd welcome Death if we should meet,\u003cbr\u003eAnd bear him willing company\"\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe compass is in very good condition and finds North very well. It is in full working order, with a fully functioning transit lock. The matching original leather case is in very good condition, with just the normal signs of age and use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 60mm diameter (excluding bow \u0026amp; loop) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e(\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note:\u003c\/strong\u003e this compass is not available for shipping to the USA)","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":38869068424,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/R_M._Dennys_Compass_-_7.jpg?v=1499415252"},{"product_id":"j-h-steward-verners-patent-marching-compass","title":"J. H. Steward Verner's Patent Marching Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003e“A lull seemed to settle over all the earth . . . [until] the spell of comparative calm is broken by the enemy shelling the North end of Thiepval Wood. The shells were falling all around us [and] the candles in Battalion headquarters kept going out”.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Bowen’s War Diary\u003c\/strong\u003e, \u003cem\u003eSomme, 1st July 1916\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA rare Verner's Patent marching compass, serial number 1353, made by J. H. Steward and dating from c.1895. The compass originally belonged to \u003cstrong\u003eLieut-Colonel Francis Osborne Bowen D.S.O.\u003c\/strong\u003e, commanding officer of of the 14th Royal Irish Rifles and 4th Battalion Royal Irish Regiment during WW1. The compass has Bowen's name, initials, and regiment written on the paper strip inside the lid, and his surname is also faintly visible on the top of the lid, just above the maker's details.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass has a brass case, marked with J. H. Steward's details, Verner patent markings, and the serial number 1353. It features a hand-painted compass card with a central area treated with 'Balmain's Luminous Paint' (patented by William Balmain in 1877), and a large black North marker. There is a transit lock operated by a sliding button, but this is no longer working. Another small button on the case operates a brake and this is working just as it should.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis compass is identical to one (serial no. 711) carried by Lieutenant C. J. Clerk during the famous charge of the 21st Lancers at the Battle of Omdurman. Another example of the Verner patent marching compass can be seen at \u003ca href=\"http:\/\/www.compassmuseum.com\" title=\"compassmuseum.com\"\u003ecompassmuseum.com\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ethe compass is in very good condition and finds North well. The transit lock is no longer working, but in all other respects the compass is in full working order. The compass card, glass, and case are all in very good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 55mm (75mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Osborne Bowen D.S.O. (1877-1948)\u003c\/strong\u003e was born at Hollymount, County Mayo, Ireland. In 1902 he was serving as an officer in the 3rd Battalion of the Connaught Rangers. By 1908 he was a Captain in the Royal Irish Regiment. In 1911 he was stationed in Jersey with the Royal Irish Regiment. He went out to France with the regiment in December 1914. During WW1 Francis Bowen served as the commanding officer of the 14th (Young Citizens) Battalion of the Royal Irish Rifles at the Battle of the Somme, before commanding the 4th Battalion of the Royal Irish Regiment from March 1918 to the end of the war. After WW1 he continued to serve in the army, going out to India in October 1924. Francis Bowen died at Clones, Ireland in June 1948. His war diaries and other papers are held at The National Archives at Kew (ref: CAB 45\/188).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLt-Colonel William Willoughby Cole Verner (1852-1922)\u003c\/strong\u003e served on the staff in the Egyptian campaign of 1884-85 and during the Boer War. He retired as a Lt-Colonel in May 1904. The earliest Verner designs were simple pocket compasses, with the various models of the Service Pattern, MK III to MK VII, appearing between c.1895-1918. His prismatic service compasses were essentially a development of the Schmalcalder patent design of the early 19th century, but they remained the standard service compass of the British Army until the start of WW2. As well as designing compasses, Verner was a prolific author, military historian, and chronicler of the Rifle Brigade.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":42958947400,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Bowen_Verner_compass_-_25.jpg?v=1502196636"},{"product_id":"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":"ww1-christmas-truce-officers-compass","title":"1914 Christmas Truce Machine Gun Officer's Compass","description":"A very rare WW1 machine gun officer’s compass clinometer, in its original fitted leather case. It is signed on the front by\u003cstrong\u003e J. Halden \u0026amp; Co Ltd, Manchester \u0026amp; London\u003c\/strong\u003e, a well known scientific and mathematical instrument company, established in Manchester in 1878 by Joseph Halden. The compass comes complete with its fitted leather case, an original WW1 photograph of Lieutenant Brockbank in uniform, and his ‘housewife’ mending kit, which no doubt saw plenty of use in the trenches.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis compass is inscribed with the name and details of it's original owner, \u003cstrong\u003eLieutenant Charles Bertram Brockbank\u003c\/strong\u003e, 6th Cheshire Regiment and 118th M.G. Coy., one of the very few officers known to have been present at a \u003cstrong\u003e1914 'Christmas Truce’ football match\u003c\/strong\u003e. Lt Brockbank wrote a very detailed diary recording his service in the trenches of the Western Front from 1914 to November 1916. The diary includes his eyewitness account of the famous football match played between men of his battalion (attached to the 1st Norfolks at the time) and a German regiment, in no mans land near Wulverghem (close to Messines and Ploegsteert Wood), on Christmas Day 1914:\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDec 24th:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e'I have got a new rifle from the armourer in exchange for my old one so am very bucked with myself. Orders have just arrived saying we are to go into the trenches for Xmas-Day which from my point of view is very disappointing, I had been hoping to spend it in billets. I should hate to be killed on Xmas-day it would not be right at all. It is freezing hard now’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDec 25th:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e'I spent the most agonising night I ever remember, owing to the cold. It was freezing terribly hard and as we were in support trenches were not allowed fires. I was so cold and my feet so painful that I got out of the dugout and walked about, there was not much danger, stamping my feet till 4.30am, then was so fagged out I fell asleep but kept on waking owing to the pain of my feet, I quite thought I was frost-bitten. 7am. It was beginning to grow light but as there was a lot of mist I told the men they could light fires. They did not need telling twice. There is a farmhouse to the rear of the trenches where hens abound, also dead pigs, so taking two men with me we went on a henhunt. They fly like pheasants so took some catching and in about ten minutes there were about 60 men in the hunt. The fog lasted till about mid-day so we had good fun, getting in all eleven hens, one of which I brought back for tomorrow’s dinner.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNow for the extraordinary incident. At about 2.30 all firing ceased and the Germans started shouting to us “Come out”, “Have a drink”, and then one of them climbed out of the trench without his equipment on so one of ours did the same. It ended in a 'Mother’s Meeting', nearly every man of our trench, except machine gunners, was out and a huge crowd was between the trenches. Someone produced a little rubber ball so of course a football match started. We exchanged various things and I got a cap-badge, belt buckle, whistle, rifle cartridge, purse and tea tablets, not to mention getting about four Germans’ names and address in their own handwriting on field service postcards, as a positive proof that it all really did happen, because it will naturally sound a very tall story when it gets told in the billets.'\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLieutenant Brockbank’s diary featured in a special exhibition at the National Football Museum in Manchester in 2015. The diary is now held at the Cheshire Regiment Museum in Chester, and is also available to read online. Many newspaper articles have also been written about Lt Brockbank’s experiences in 1914. His account of the December 25th truce and football match was confirmed by the testimony of other men of the Cheshire Regiment who were there at the time, including Pte. Ernie Williams and Sgt. Major Naden.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLieutenant Charles Bertram Brockbank (1894-1976)\u003c\/strong\u003e served with 6th Battalion of the Cheshire Regiment and the 118th Machine Gun Company, M.G.C. He was commissioned in September 1914 and served in France and Belgium until November 1916. His last diary entry was on 12th Nov 1916: \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e‘Sunday. Moved up to the Schwaben this afternoon and got a good idea of our “battle-positions”. The Huns put a fairly stiff barrage down on our position but did no great damage. We are to go over the top \u0026amp; take St Pierre Divion whilst the Royal Naval Division take Beaumont Hamel. It should be fairly exciting as we have to cross over a bare skyline'.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDuring the action on the following day, Lieutenant Brockbank was buried by a large shell and was then uncovered by another explosion. He was invalided home to England with shell-shock. On his release from hospital, he was posted to Harrowby Camp, M.G.T.C., Grantham as an assistant Quartermaster. He was due to go back overseas when the Armistice was signed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe compass is in very good condition and finds North very well. It is in full working order, with a fully functioning transit lock. The spirit levels and flip up lenses are in full working order, and the main brass hinge is working very smoothly. The compass rule has 'Lt. Brockbank, 118th M.G. Coy.’ written on the rear. The matching original leather case is in very good condition, with just the normal signs of age and use. It is inscribed in ink on the rear ‘Lt. C. B. Brockbank, 118th Machine Gun Coy.’ The 'housewife' mending kit (including numerous buttons, needles, a thimble and two rolls of cotton) is in good condition, with general signs of use. The original portrait photograph of Lt. Brockbank is in good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 160mm x 48mm (compass diameter: 38mm), case 170mm x 50mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":506469974024,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Brockbank_MGC_-_14.jpg?v=1516655032"},{"product_id":"w-gregory-pocket-altimeter-barometer-c-1900","title":"W. Gregory \u0026 Co. Pocket Altimeter Barometer c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA late Victorian pocket altimeter barometer, dating from c.1881-1904. It would have been used by explorers, mountaineers, balloonists, or travellers. The dial is inscribed with the retailer's name: \u003cstrong\u003e'Gregory \u0026amp; Co, 51 Strand, London'\u003c\/strong\u003e. William Gregory was a notable military photographer and optician who worked from this address from c.1881 until his death in 1904. As Gregory died in 1904, it is reasonable to assume that the barometer was made around the turn of the century, probably by one of the best makers, such as Francis Barker. Barker was a prolific maker of pocket barometers from the Victorian era through to the early 20th century. Almost all of Barker's barometers were supplied unsigned to the retail trade, with the retailer often adding their own details to the dial. The dial is calibrated from zero to 5000 feet, with additional 'Rain', 'Change', and 'Fair' markings. The barometer has a brass case, blued needle, rotating bezel operated by turning the crown, and an adjustment screw on the rear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barometer is in good condition and full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The brass case is in good condition, with some wear to the original lacquered finish. The bevelled glass is in good condition, with a small, stable, hairline crack to the underside of the glass at 4 o'clock. The dial and needle are in good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e45mm diameter (70mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1257977085960,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Gregory_Barometer_-_10.jpg?v=1514996775"},{"product_id":"copy-of-georgian-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Pocket Compass \u0026 Case c.1790","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn 18th century Georgian pocket compass dating from c.1790 or possibly earlier. With a hand painted enamel or porcelain dial of a typically mid to late 18th century style. The design is similar to that of compasses sold by J \u0026amp; G Simms of London around 1790.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis compass has a delicate, finely made English bar needle, and a jewelled pivot. With a fire-gilt or gold plated case, original bevelled glass, and fitted leather case. The case is a very rare twin-clasp design, lined with red velvet. The outer covering is most likely shark or ray skin, which was typical of the late 18th century. The red velvet lining also points to a late 18th century date of manufacture. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a very high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and good working order. With general signs of age and use, some marks to the enamel dial, and some dust (actually looks like evaporated salt - was this a mariner's compass?) under the glass at the edges. The leather case is in good condition, with both clasps working well, and a good strong hinge.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e compass: 35mm diameter, case: 45mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":1447303708680,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Mariners_compass_-_14.jpg?v=1516826578"},{"product_id":"vintage-silva-wrist-compass","title":"Vintage Silva Wrist Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very good example of a vintage Silva 'Globe Trotter' wrist compass, dating from the mid 20th century, and probably made in the 1950's or 1960's. Made in Sweden, this type of compass was often issued to military personnel. It is a liquid filled design, with a rotating aluminium bezel. The compass has an aluminium case and red\/white needle with a luminous north marker. The leather strap is extra long (30cm), intended to be worn over military or mountaineering winter clothing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, ful working order,  and finds North very well. The bezel rotates smoothly. The leather strap is in good condition, with general signs of age and use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm diameter (strap: 300mm)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note\u003c\/strong\u003e: this compass is \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e available for shipping to the \u003cstrong\u003eUSA\u003c\/strong\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":6963742834740,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Silva_Wrist_compass_-_1.jpg?v=1520412910"},{"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":"ww1-german-mauser-rifle-cartridge-compass","title":"WW1 German 1898 Mauser Rifle Cartridge Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis is an extremely rare and unusual compass, made from a German Mauser 1898 7.9mm service rifle cartridge case. The dimensions of the case and bullet have been checked against detailed scale drawings that can be found in the War Office publication \u003cem\u003eText Book of Small Arms\u003c\/em\u003e (1909). The compass is tiny (9.5mm diameter) and is concealed in the base of the cartridge case, where the primer would have been. At first glance this might seem to be a trench art item, probably from the First World War. But it is very well made, and has the German word '\u003cem\u003eGeschuetz\u003c\/em\u003e' stamped around the top of the case. This is the German term for 'Registered', generally found on commercially produced items which had registered or trademarked designs. It seems most likely that this compass would have been produced in Germany during WW1, perhaps as a gift that a soldier might present to a relative or friend. The case is decorated with intricate patterned engraving. The bullet itself is either silver or nickel plated (there are no hallmarks or other silver markings). The compass has a blued needle, brass pivot and bevelled glass. It is in very good working order and finds North well.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe cartridge case, bullet and compass are all in very good condition and full working order. There is some minor wear to the original finish of the brass case.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e84mm length (bullet and case), \u003cbr\u003e9.5mm (compass diameter)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":7726001029172,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Bullet_compass_-_31.jpg?v=1625521573"},{"product_id":"singers-prismatic-pocket-compass-1","title":"Victorian Singer's Prismatic Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Prismatic, Singers's type, Pocket Compass, dating from c.1868. This type of compass was a development of Schmalcalder's Patent compass of 1812 which introduced the idea of using an optical prism, combined with a sighting vane, to improve accuracy when taking bearings. This compass has an oxidized brass case, green Singer's Patent style compass card, a jewelled pivot, an optical prism, and a folding sighting vane. It also has a manual brake and an automatic transit lock, which is operated when the sighting vane is folded down. The distinctive bright green card design was intended to enhance the night marching capabilities of the compass, and this type of compass was often used by the British Army from around 1860 to 1900. This particular example is quite unusual in that it is only 50mm in diameter. The vast majority of examples of this type of compass were larger, at around 70mm. It is also rare to see this type of compass with a Singer's card, as most were produced with a card of a much simpler design.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSingers's Patent Compass\u003c\/strong\u003e: Samuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) was a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth. \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and full working order, the compass finds north very well. With just some wear to the original oxidized finish of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm (diameter)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":8677901533236,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Greencard_prismatic_-_7.jpg?v=1528302426"},{"product_id":"cary-singers-patent-pocket-compass-c-1865","title":"Cary, London, Singer's Patent Compass c.1865","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn early example of a Singer's Patent pocket compass, dating from around 1865, with the serial number: 15878. The presence of the serial number means that the compass was certainly made before Singer's patent expired in 1868. The mother of pearl compass card is hand painted in the classic Singer's design, and marked 'Singer's Patent, No. 15878'. The card also has the maker's mark 'Cary, London'. The compass has a working transit lock. Originally, it may have had a push-fit lid, but there are no marks on the case to confirm this possibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCary, London:\u003c\/strong\u003e William Cary (1759 – 1825) was an English scientific-instrument maker. He produced numerous scientific instruments including mechanical calculators, measuring instruments, telescopes, microscopes, navigation and survey equipment. William Cary had three brothers, the eldest George (c.1753 - 1830) was a haberdasher while the second brother John, was a mapmaker who also worked with William and the last, Francis (c.1756 - 1836) was an engraver. Cary learnt the skills for producing instruments as an apprentice of Jesse Ramsdan (1735 - 1800). After his death in 1825, the firm was taken over by Charles Gould, who may have trained briefly under William Cary. The company continued trading for almost 100 years, being run by various members of the Gould family, including Charlotte Hyde Gould (c.1797 - 1865).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and working order. The compass finds north, although sometimes a little slowly. The mother of pearl card is in good condition. The transit lock is in working order. There is a little dust under the glass and some minor wear to the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 35mm (Diameter)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":8679881965620,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Cary_Singers_-_10.jpg?v=1528357375"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-wooden-desk-compass","title":"Francis Barker Wooden Desk Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very good early example of a Francis Barker 'presentation' desk compass, dating from around 1890-1900. There is no maker's mark, but this is a well known Barker design. With a jewelled pivot, paper compass card, and a turned wooden case. This type of desk or 'presentation' compass was originally produced by Francis Barker in the 19th century, and continued in production until quite recently, with a painted aluminium case replacing the earlier wooden one. This type of compass was often presented to senior naval officers to mark a significant event or personal achievement. Details of the original model and later developments can be found in Paul Crespel's excellent book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good condition and full working order, it finds North very well. The half-blued finish of the needle has faded over time, and there are some minor spots of surface corrosion. The glass is unmarked, and the wooden case is in good condition, with some signs of age and use.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDimensions: 160mm diameter\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":8754315165748,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_Wooden_-_14.jpg?v=1528889886"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-m-88-prismatic-military-compass-4","title":"Francis Barker M-88 Prismatic Military Compass","description":"An excellent Francis Barker M-88 military prismatic marching compass, boxed and in mint condition. British made, these are standard issue to UK armed Forces and were used in Iraq and Afghanistan. Generally regarded to be one of the finest compasses available. It is much lighter than the classic M-73, but equal to it in terms of performance. It is dual use, being calibrated in both MILS \u0026amp; Degrees. It is NATO approved and stamped on the base with the NATO stock number 6605-99-225-8550.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e(\u003cstrong\u003ePlease Note\u003c\/strong\u003e: this compass is \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e available for shipping to the \u003cstrong\u003eUSA\u003c\/strong\u003e)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe compass is as new, boxed and in mint condition, and finds North very well. In full working order and the luminous night lights are working very well. It comes complete with its original lanyard and cardboard box.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions : 85mm x 60mm x 34mm","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9082539835444,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/M88_July18_-_38.jpg?v=1531409651"},{"product_id":"troughton-simms-victorian-pocket-compass-c-1880","title":"Troughton \u0026 Simms Victorian Pocket Compass c.1880","description":"A rare and unusually large (60mm diameter) antique Victorian pocket compass, by the well known English maker, Troughton \u0026amp; Simms of London. This is a beautifully made, very high quality compass, with a hand painted compass card, English bar needle, jewelled pivot, and fitted twin-clasp velvet lined leather case. It is in good, original, condition. Made during the late Victorian era, probably around 1880-1890. The compass card is clearly marked ‘Troughton \u0026amp; Simms, London’.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e***Please note: the compass is not in full working order, as the transit lock release is not functioning, and the compass needle is locked in position and unable to move***\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTroughton \u0026amp; Simms:\u003c\/strong\u003e were a British instrument making firm, formed when Edward Troughton (1756-1835) took on William Simms as a partner in 1826. It became a limited company in 1915 and in 1922 it merged with T. Cooke \u0026amp; Sons to form Cooke, Troughton \u0026amp; Simms. The firm produced a wide variety of scientific and astronomical instruments, such as compasses, transit circles, sextants, telescopes, and other instruments for observatories around the world. Previously, Troughton had been a sole proprietor, and before that he was in partnership with his brother John. When John died Edward took on Simms in 1826. Edward Troughton died in 1835. In 1876 Troughton \u0026amp; Simms supplied the Imperial Standards Of Length gauges mounted at Trafalgar Square in London. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn very good condition, but \u003cstrong\u003eNOT in full working order\u003c\/strong\u003e. The button at the bow which should operate the transit lock has become detached and no longer connects to the transit lock lever which runs beneath the compass card. The result of this is that the needle is locked in position and does not move. This could be rectified if the compass was dismantled, but that would probably be quite difficult to achieve, as this type of compass was not designed to be easily dismantled. There is a mark to the case near the bow where it looks as though someone has tried to open it in the past. The leather case is in very good condition, with both clasps secure. Despite the transit lock issue, this rare compass would make an excellent display item.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCompass: 60mm diameter (85mm inc. bow \u0026amp; loop) \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eLeather Case: 70mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9167144255540,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Troughton_compass_-_6.jpg?v=1532421271"},{"product_id":"lt-col-kitchin-dso-verners-service-pattern-compass-mk-vi","title":"Lt-Col Kitchin DSO | Verner's MK VI Compass | Gallipoli","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e'He was a very brave officer, \u003cbr\u003eand was an inspiration to all near him.'\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn early version of the MK VI Verner's Service Pattern prismatic marching compass, dating from c.1905-1914. There are no maker's marks, but this is a high quality compass and was most probably made by F. Barker \u0026amp; Son, J. H. Steward or one of the other prominent scientific instrument manufacturers of the period. This compass is in very good condition, with some wear to the original oxidised and lacquered finishes of the brass case. It is in full working order. The compass has the name of the officer it originally belonged to,\u003cstrong\u003e 'C. E. Kitchin'\u003c\/strong\u003e, engraved on the edge of the lid, along with his unit, \u003cstrong\u003e'24th Regt'\u003c\/strong\u003e (South Wales Borderers).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLt-Col. Charles Edward Kitchin\u003c\/strong\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eDSO\u003c\/strong\u003e (1877-1948) was an officer of the regular army, who served with the 4th Battalion South Wales Borderers. He was commissioned in 1897, joining the regiment as a second lieutenant. By 1898 he had been promoted to Captain and adjutant. During WW1 he fought at Gallipoli and in Mesopotamia, winning the D.S.O. for gallantry and being mentioned in despatches four times. Kitchin disembarked at Gallipoli on 28 June 1915 and saw a great deal of action during the ensuing campaign. During heavy fighting in the action at Damakjelik Bar on 6-7th August Captain Kitchin was in command of 'C' Company SWB. The regiment suffered numerous casualties from shrapnel and sniper fire before 'C' company led by Captain Kitchin, along with part of 'D' Company, carried out a daring bayonet charge which drove the enemy back 200yds, at a cost of 4 men killed, 6 officers and 72 men wounded. In August Captain Kitchin and 'C' Company were once again in the thick of the fighting, being instrumental in holding the line at HIll 60. Despite being slightly wounded, Kitchin remained with his men throughout. One of the officers present, Major C. G. Powles of the NZMR later wrote, describing the actions of Captain Kitchin: '[He] very gallantly assisted in holding the NZ trench on the night of August 21\/22nd. He was a very brave officer, and was an inspiration to all near him.' Kitchin went on to serve with distinction in the Mesopotamian campaign, during which he was badly wounded. By the end of the war he had risen to the rank of Lt-Colonel and commanded the 4th Battalion SWB. He finally left the army in 1932, retiring from the reserve of officers on 27th April.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCopies of the details I have of Lt-Colonel Kitchin's service will be included with the compass. With a little further research it should be possible to discover a great deal more about the military career of this distinguished and very courageous officer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Verner's MK VI\u003c\/strong\u003e was produced between c.1905-1914, and was standard issue to British officers at the start of WW1. It was replaced soon after the start of the war by later developments, such the MK VII. The mother-of -pearl compass card features black hand-painted markers over a luminous paint background. This type of luminous paint, most probably a version of 'Balmain's Luminous Paint' was a compound of calcium sulphide. The paint was made luminous by exposure to sunlight or, as suggested in the original instructions, by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon near the compass card. It was patented in England in 1877 by William Balmain, and was often used in compasses, before the introduction of radium paint rendered it obsolete just before WW1.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLt-Colonel William Willoughby Cole Verner (1852-1922)\u003c\/strong\u003e served on the staff in the Egyptian campaign of 1884-85 and during the Boer War. He retired as a Lt-Colonel in May 1904. The earliest Verner designs were simple pocket compasses, with the various models of the Service Pattern, MK III to MK VII, appearing between c.1900-1918. His prismatic service compasses were essentially a development of the Schmalcalder patent design of the early 19th century, but they remained the standard service compass of the British Army until the start of WW2. As well as designing compasses, Verner was a prolific author, military historian, and chronicler of the Rifle Brigade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition and full working order. The rubber friction ring on the base on the compass has been replaced with a new one in the same style and colour as the original.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e 52mm (case diameter, 72mm inc. prism)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e(\u003cem\u003ePlease Note: this compass is \u003cstrong\u003enot\u003c\/strong\u003e available for shipping to the \u003cstrong\u003eUSA\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/em\u003e)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9296824860724,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Kitchin_compass_-_11.jpg?v=1545920022"},{"product_id":"georgian-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Pocket Compass c.1830","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian Brass box English pocket compass, with a press-fit lid, dating from c.1820-1840. With a paper compass card of a typically ornate, detailed Georgian style. The compass has a delicate and finely made blued needle, and a Georgian 'Crown' style brass pivot. In a lidded brass case, with an automatic transit lock operated when the lid is replaced. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and excellent working order. The compass finds North very well. The transit lock is fully functional. With just the normal signs of age, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the brass case and lid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 60mm diameter (depth: 15mm)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9302243409972,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_compass_-_19.jpg?v=1534350397"},{"product_id":"georgian-pocket-compass-c-1820","title":"Georgian Pocket Compass c.1820","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian Brass box English pocket compass, with a press-fit lid, dating from c.1800 - 1830. With a paper compass card of a typical Georgian style, and a fleur-de-lys marker at the North point. The compass has a jewelled pivot, and a brass case with a red painted interior. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the best makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and full working order. The compass finds North well. With just the normal signs of age, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the brass case and lid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm diameter (depth: 15mm)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9516506153012,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_Red_-_24.jpg?v=1536219635"},{"product_id":"j-hicks-pocket-altimeter-barometer-c-1880","title":"J. Hicks Pocket Altimeter Barometer c.1880","description":"An excellent Victorian pocket altimeter barometer, made by \u003cstrong\u003eJ. Hicks, of Hatton Garden, London\u003c\/strong\u003e, and dating from the last quarter of the 19th century. It would have been used by explorers, mountaineers, or travellers. It was made in England, around 1880-1890, by J. Hicks, probably the best maker of the time. The barometer has a rotating bezel, calibrated from zero to 10,000 feet, a blued needle, a beautifully gilded brass case, and a fitted, satin and blue velvet lined, morocco leather case. The barometer also has an adjustment screw on the rear. It is quite large for a pocket barometer, at 70mm (2 3\/4 inches) diameter.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eJ. Hicks, Hatton Garden, London\u003c\/strong\u003e: James J. Hicks (1837-1916) established his business in Hatton Garden, London in 1861 and quickly became the most important supplier of barometers and meteorological equipment in London. By 1914 the company had 150 employees. The company traded at 8 Hatton Garden, before expanding to 8, 9, \u0026amp; 10 Hatton Garden (c.1890s). In 1852 Hicks had been apprenticed to L. P. Casella of Hatton Garden, where by 1860 he had risen to the status of foreman. This date marks also the first of many patents filed by Hicks, principally relating to meteorological and clinical thermometers, but covering other items such as barometers, hydrometers and radiometers, aneroid barometers, and various medical appliances utilizing aneroid pressure capsules. From 1878, as an independent manufacturer, Hicks catered to the developing science of meteorology, the growing use of industrial control instruments, and to military needs, by the provision of scientific, industrial, and domestic thermometers, barometers, and pressure gauges, and many other types of apparatus. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe barometer is in very good condition and full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The gilt brass case is in very good condition, with only minor wear to the original gilt and lacquered finish. The bevelled glass is in very good condition. The dial and needle are in very good condition. The leather case is in very good condition, with minor signs of wear. The exterior push-button is missing, but the interior catch is present and working, keeping the case closed properly. The case can easily be opened simply by applying a little pressure at the spot where the button would have been.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e : 70mm diameter (case: 80mm)\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":9724069576756,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Hicks_barometer_-_9.jpg?v=1537264660"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-luminous-pocket-compass-c-1875","title":"Francis Barker Luminous Pocket Compass c.1875","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass Hunter cased, English bar needle, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1875 or earlier. The inside of the lid is clearly stamped with the pre-1875 Barker 'Trade Mark London' logo. The 'Trade Mark London' logo has the letter 'S' the right way round, identifying it as having been made before the end of 1875 (the 'S' was reversed after the death of Francis Barker in December 1875).\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is an early version of the 'Improved Colonial, No. 3014' compass which was made by Barker and featured in many of their catalogues from the Victorian era until the mid 1920s. Further details of this particular compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e (p.236) by Paul Crespel, and at the trademarklondon.com website. It also features in Kornelia Takac's book \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e on p.68.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis particular compass is unusual in that it has luminous paint markers at the four cardinal points. This type of luminous paint, most probably an early version of 'Balmain's Luminous Paint', was a compound of calcium sulphide. The paint was made luminous by exposure to sunlight or by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon near the compass card. It was patented in England in 1877 by William Balmain, and was often used in compasses during the late 19th century.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, full working order and finds North well. There is some wear to the paper compass card, and some marks to the compass needle. The original transit lock is present and fully functional. The case is in good condition, with some marks. The glass is in good condition with a couple of small scratches.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 45mm (excluding loop), 65mm (inc. loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13092608868404,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_luminous_colonial_-_27.jpg?v=1538130219"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-miniature-pocket-compass","title":"Francis Barker Miniature Pocket Compass c.1890","description":"\u003cp\u003eA miniature brass box, push-fit lid, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1875-1900. The compass is clearly signed on the card with the distinctive 'Trade Mark London' Barker logo. The reversed letter 'S' that forms part of the logo dates the compass to sometime after 1875, as this style of logo was adopted after Francis Barker's death in 1875. This design featured in many Barker catalogues until the mid 1920s. Further details of this type of Francis Barker compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e by Paul Crespel, and at the trademarklondon.com website.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, working order and finds North very well. The case is in good condition, with much of the original lacquered finish still present. The glass is in good condition. The paper compass card and blued needle are in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 29mm diameter\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13212815786036,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_small_box_-_4.jpg?v=1538480467"},{"product_id":"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":"victorian-solid-silver-pocket-compass-london-1897","title":"Victorian Silver Compass, Lewis Nightingale, London 1897","description":"\u003cp\u003eA solid silver English miniature pocket compass, made by the Victorian silversmith Lewis Nightingale, and hallmarked for London 1897. The compass has a sterling silver case, bevelled glass, English bar needle with a jewelled pivot, and a push-button transit lock. This compass would originally have been part of a barometer, compass, and thermometer compendium set, which would have been sold with all three instruments presented in a fitted morocco leather case. (photos of an identical compass, in a set made by Lewis Nightingale in 1895, can be seen at vavasseur-antiques.com\/portfolios\/scarce-miniature-silver-pocket-barometer-compendium-nightingale\/)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, full working order and finds North well. The solid silver case is in very good condition, with good clear hallmarks. The marks for Lewis Nightingale, 1897, sterling silver, and London are all easily legible. The original bevelled glass is in good condition, with some signs of wear and a few scratches. The compass card and bar needle are in very good condition. The transit lock is fully functional\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 23mm diameter (35mm including loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eLewis Nightingale\u003c\/strong\u003e: was an English silversmith working in Clerkenwell, London during the late Victorian period. Known as a maker of fine quality silver cases for barometers and compasses, his maker's mark was registered in 1894.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":13931140612148,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Silver_compass_-_30.jpg?v=1547228792"},{"product_id":"georgian-brass-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Brass Pocket Compass c.1830","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian Brass box English pocket compass, with a press-fit lid, dating from c.1820-1840. With a paper compass card of a typically ornate, detailed Georgian style. The compass has a delicate and finely made blued needle, and a Georgian 'Crown' style brass pivot. In a lidded brass case, with a beautifully engineered transit lock operated when the lid is replaced. There is a duplicate of the paper compass card inside the lid. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn good, original condition, and excellent working order. The compass finds North very well. The transit lock is fully functional. With just the normal signs of age, and some wear to the original lacquered finish of the brass case and lid.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 57mm diameter (depth: 15mm)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14032332783668,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_compass_2-19_-_10.jpg?v=1549211624"},{"product_id":"georgian-nickel-silver-pocket-compass-c-1830","title":"Georgian Nickel Silver Pocket Compass c.1830","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Georgian nickel-silver pocket compass dating from c.1830. With a hand-drawn floating paper compass card of a typical Georgian style. In a nickel-silver brass case. The compass is in full working order and finds North very well. Although there are no maker's marks, this is a very high quality compass, undoubtedly from one of the finest makers of the time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good, original condition, and excellent working order. The compass finds North very well. With just the normal signs of age, and some minor wear to the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 35mm diameter (55mm inc. bow)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14107554349108,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_Nsilver_CL_-_18.jpg?v=1550239008"},{"product_id":"night-marching-compass-c-1880-1900","title":"Dollond Night Marching Compass c.1880-1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Dollond Night Marching type pocket compass, dating from c.1880-1900.  It may well have been intended for military use, as an officer's compass. The compass features an aluminium card with a large hand-painted North-South arrow, painted centre, and jewelled pivot. The card may have been painted with a luminous compound (most probably \u003cstrong\u003e‘Balmain’s Luminous Paint’\u003c\/strong\u003e), which was activated by exposure to very bright light, often created by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon. There is a sighting window in the lid and an additional sighting point in the loop. The compass has an oxidised brass case, a transit lock, and a manual brake. Compasses of this type are known to have been manufactured by \u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker\u003c\/strong\u003e before 1875, and it is quite likely that this example was made by Barker and retailed by Dollond, who would have engraved their own details on the lid. The compass is signed on the lid by \u003cstrong\u003e'Dollond, London’\u003c\/strong\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDollond and Company\u003c\/strong\u003e, (optical and scientific instrument maker): In 1750 \u003cstrong\u003ePeter Dollond\u003c\/strong\u003e opened a small optical business in Vine Street, Hatton Garden, London, under his father's guidance. By 1752 The business was sufficiently successful that \u003cstrong\u003eJohn Dollond\u003c\/strong\u003e, Peter's father, gave up silk weaving and went into partnership with his son in the optical business. In 1758 John Dollond obtained a patent on a compound lens for refracting telescopes. These lenses were described as achromatic, a term said to have been coined by Dr John Bevis. Although there was a dispute as to who had first invented the achromatic lens, Dollond certainly devised a quicker and simpler method of correcting the spherical aberration of lenses, as well as a method of measuring the lenses so that batches could be matched and achromatic doublet lenses reliably produced, thereby bringing the achromatic lens to market. In 1759 J. Dollond and Son opened a shop in the Strand. In 1761 John Dollond was appointed optician to George III and the Duke of York. In 1766 Peter went into partnership with his younger brother, John. They went onto supply optical instruments for Captain Cook and for Hadley. In 1781 Peter Dollond began making bifocal spectacles. John Dollond died in 1804 and Peter Dollond took his nephew \u003cb\u003eGeorge Huggins\u003c\/b\u003e into partnership; Huggins changed his name by licence to Dollond. The trading name of the business remained P. and J. Dollond. In 1819 George took over the company. In 1820 Peter and George were jointly made opticians to George IV. During the 1800s Dollond's sold the \u003ci\u003eCamera Lucida\u003c\/i\u003e, a drawing aid patented in 1806 by William Hyde Wollaston and manufactured by the Dollonds; and the \u003ci\u003eCamera Obscura\u003c\/i\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn 1851 Dollond's were awarded a medal at the Great Exhibition for instruments for recording meteorological information on a strip of paper. In 1852 The younger George succeeded to the family business on his uncle's death; following the family tradition, he too adopted the surname Dollond. In 1866, when the second George Dollond died, the firm was taken over by his son, William (1834–1893). By 1871 William Dollond had become too ill to continue working and he sold the firm to J. R. Chant, a former employee, who retained the trading name of Dollond. During the early 20th century Dollonds sold film cameras, and in 1927 the firm was acquired by James Aitchison to become Dollond and Aitchison, after which it concentrated increasingly on prescription spectacles.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\nIn very good original condition, and good working order. The compass finds north well. The oxidised finish of the case is in almost perfect condition. Unusually, the compass retains its original rubber friction ring on the base of the case. The compass card and glass are in very good condition. The transit lock and manual brake are working well. The lid fits perfectly and the hinge is strong. \u003cbr\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 55mm diameter (80mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14890083680308,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Dollond_marching_-_3.jpg?v=1556282422"},{"product_id":"1917-j-h-steward-military-compass","title":"1917 J. H. Steward Military Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA nickel-plated brass cased J. H. Steward Mk VI military pocket compass, dated 1917. The compass card is marked 'J. H. Steward Ltd, London'. This type of card design was still being produced in the 1920's and several versions were offered for sale in Steward's 1928 catalogue. The design was a development of the classic Singer's Patent compass of the 1860's. The compass features a hand drawn paper compass card, agate jewelled pivot, thick bevelled glass, and a Dennison hunter case. This is a very unusual example of an officer's compass, as most of those designated 'MK VI' were produced from 1914-1916 and featured a simpler version of the Singer's design. I have never seen another WW1 compass that uses this particular and very distinctive J. H. Steward compass card. The brass ring surrounding the glass is another highly unusual feature. The compass is marked on the lid with the official British military 'broad arrow', showing that it was issued by the army, rather than being an officer's private purchase item.\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 very good original condition, and good working order. The compass finds north well. The nickel plating of the case is in good condition. The compass card and bevelled glass are in very good condition. There is a little dust under the glass. The lid opens well and closes with a good firm snap. With broad arrow markings and 'Dennison, Birmingham, VI, 55334, 1917' engraved on the lid. The compass card is marked 'J. H. Steward, London'.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 45mm diameter (65mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":14909200007220,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/1917_J_H_Steward_-_3.jpg?v=1556637420"},{"product_id":"victorian-pocket-altimeter-barometer-c-1890","title":"Victorian Pocket Altimeter Barometer c.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Victorian pocket altimeter barometer, dating from c.1900. It would have been used by explorers, mountaineers, or travellers. Although there are no obvious maker's marks, it was made in England, probably around 1900, by one of the best makers, almost certainly Francis Barker. Francis Barker was a prolific maker of pocket barometers from the Victorian era through to the early 20th century. Almost all of Barker's barometers were supplied unsigned to the retail trade, with the retailer often adding their own details to the dial. But Barker often added a discreet marking on the dial, a kind of hidden signature - in this case it can be seen in the letter 'C' placed between the '31' and '21' markings. The dial is calibrated from zero to 10,000 feet, with additional 'Rain', 'Change', and 'Fair' markings. The barometer has a gilt brass case, blued needle, a rotating bezel operated by turning the crown, and an adjustment screw on the rear. Two almost identical Barometers, made by Francis Barker between 1905-1910, can be seen on pages 86-87 of Paul Crespel's book \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe barometer is in good condition and full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The gilt brass case is in good condition, with some wear to the original lacquered finish. The glass is in good condition, with a couple of minor scatches. The dial and needle are in good condition. The fitted Moroccan leather, velvet lined, case has general signs of wear, and is missing its push-button clasp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions : \u003c\/strong\u003e50mm (75mm inc. loop)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":28590381563956,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_Barometer_-_23.jpg?v=1558541279"},{"product_id":"t-armstrong-sons-prismatic-pocket-compass-c-1880","title":"Thomas Armstrong Prismatic Pocket Compass \u0026 Case c.1880","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Greencard Prismatic Pocket Compass, signed by \u003cstrong\u003eThomas Armstrong, of Deansgate, Manchester\u003c\/strong\u003e, dating from c.1880. It was made by F. Barker \u0026amp; Son and has their distinctive reversed 'S' post-1875 'Trade Mark London' logo at North on the compass card. Barker would have supplied the compass to Armstrong's, who would then have added their own details to the card. It is very unusual to see both the maker's and the retailer's signature on the card - Barker usually supplied their instruments unsigned.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis type of compass was a development of Schmalcalder's Patent compass of 1812 which introduced the idea of using an optical prism, combined with a sighting vane, to improve accuracy when taking bearings. This compass has an oxidized brass case with a push-fit lid, hand-drawn Singer's Patent design compass card, jewelled pivot, optical prism, and folding sighting vane. There are luminous markers at North and South, painted with a special compound (most probably ‘Balmain’s Luminous Paint’, patented in 1877), which was activated by exposure to very bright light, often created by burning a strip of magnesium ribbon. The compass comes with its original morocco leather case, lined with blue velvet.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe British Army used this type of compass from around 1860 to 1900. This particular example is unusual in that it is only 50mm in diameter. Most examples of this type of compass were larger, at around 70mm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThomas Armstrong \u0026amp; Brother, Manchester:\u003c\/strong\u003e Armstrong’s had been trading in Manchester since 1825, as jewellers and silversmiths. Around 1851 Thomas Armstrong expanded the business to include the manufacture of optical instruments. In 1868 he took his brother George into the business and changed its name to 'Thomas Armstrong \u0026amp; Brother'. This helps to date the compass to sometime after 1868, which also ties in with the Singer’s Patent style design of the card (Singer’s patent expired in 1868). During this period Armstrong's reputation was such that in 1891 the company won the contract to supply the War Office, the Admiralty, the Board of Trade, the India Office and the General Post Office (G.P.O) with scientific instruments.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn excellent, near mint condition and full working order, with just some minor wear to the original morocco leather case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003eCompass: 50mm (diameter), 70mm including prism\u003cbr\u003eCase: 90mm (length), 25mm (depth)\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":28675271458868,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_Greencard_coffin_-_12.jpg?v=1581353771"},{"product_id":"ww1-rossignol-military-compass","title":"Rossignol Military Compass (1894)","description":"\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAn extremely rare French artillery or survey compass dating from c.1894, invented by Camille Rossignol, a French officer and firearms expert. \u003cstrong\u003eCaptain Louis-Camille Rossignol (1851-1943)\u003c\/strong\u003e was a French officer and inventor, who served as 'Chef Armurier' with the 106th Régiment de Ligne in Châlons-sur-Marne. He is best known for designing an improved military compass system ('\u003ci\u003eMilitaire Perfectionnée'\u003c\/i\u003e), which he patented in 1894. This instrument was in use from the 1890s to the 1930s, and was still being offered by Société des Lunetiers (S-L) in their 1932 catalogue. Rossignol also invented automatic rifles and a machine-gun. He was awarded several decorations (the Médaille Militaire, the Médaille Coloniale, and the Légion d'Honneur) for this work and for his military service in North Africa.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eRossignol patented two compass systems. The first one, dating from 1885, included a clinometer as well as a compass and was known as the \u003ci\u003eBoussole militaire devant servir à diriger les troupes et au levé des plans \u003c\/i\u003e - Military compass for leading troops and survey tasks. The second instrument, dating from 1894\u003ci\u003e,\u003c\/i\u003e was the \u003cem\u003eBoussole militaire perfectionnée\u003c\/em\u003e - Improved military compass. It is a complex and rather unusual design which features a mirrored lid, with the mirror automatically held at an angle of 45° by means of a spring and a triangular cam. It also has a boom that includes the front element of the sight and two rulers. The sight's rear element is a notch in the housing of the compass bearing setting screw. The right-hand side ruler is marked with a distance measuring scale (1\/80,000, the scale generally used in French military maps at the time). The left side is a ruler marked in millimeters. The zero reference point of both rulers is located in the compass' centre, so that the divisions read 40 to 100mm and respectively 3 to 8 km. The compass capsule rotates, has a transparent base window made of horn, and a cross, one arm of which is painted black.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis compass has the maker's mark 'C. Rossignol, Chef Armurier, Bte. S.G.D.G.', on the top of the lid, and the serial number '52' on the rear sight. The low serial number shows that this compass was one of the first to be made, very probably around the time of the patent being filed in 1894. A very well made compass, with a jewelled pivot, blued needle, nickel plated brass case, and mirrored lid. It comes with its original leather case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTo take a bearing, the reflection of the compass needle is viewed in the mirrored underside of the lid, and the compass capsule is rotated until the black cross arm lies under the North pointer.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFurther details of this type of artillery compass and the work of Camille Rossignol can be found at the excellent compassmuseum.com website.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, working order, and finds North well. The small compass bearing setting screw is missing from the rear sight housing, but this does not affect the functioning of the compass. The original leather case is in quite worn condition and has shrunk so that it no longer fits the compass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions :\u003c\/strong\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e130mm length, 55mm width, 16mm depth\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":28873932472372,"sku":"","price":185.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Rossignol_Compass_-_34.jpg?v=1762633715"},{"product_id":"victorian-wooden-box-compass","title":"Victorian Wooden Cased Pocket Compass c.1880","description":"\u003cp\u003eA rare Victorian mahogany cased compass, possibly made by Francis Barker c.1880. Although there are no maker's marks on the compass, the 'hidden' hinges are characteristic Barker design features. The wooden case is quite unusual in that it has a sliding brass button clasp. The elegant and minimalist card design is also very unusual, with just a star at the North point and letters at the other cardinal points. The compass has a English bar needle, jewelled pivot, aluminium card, and a transit lock operated when the lid is closed. A similar mahogany compass (with a standard clasp) can be seen in the 1907 Barker catalogue, reproduced on p.407 of Paul Crepsel's excellent book \u003cstrong\u003e\u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e, which can be viewed at trademarklondon.com\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-Optics. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good, original condition and full working order. It finds north very well. The hand-painted alluminium compass card is in very good condition. There is a transit lock operated by a small pin which locks the needle when the lid is closed. The wooden case is in very good condition, with a lovely patina, 'hidden' hinges, and a sliding button clasp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions: \u003c\/strong\u003e75mm x 75mm x 23mm\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29200101703732,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_wooden_alloy_-_16.jpg?v=1565279703"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-1860-pattern-pocket-compass","title":"Francis Barker 1860 Pattern Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Victorian or Edwardian brass box, push-fit lid, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1875-1910. It has a blued needle, a brass pivot, and a paper compass card. The compass is clearly signed on the card with the distinctive 'Trade Mark London' Barker logo. The reversed letter 'S' that forms part of the logo dates the compass to sometime after 1875, as this style of logo was adopted after Francis Barker's death in 1875. This is a classic Barker design which was first used in the 1860s, and continued to be produced until the early 1930s. Further details of this type of Francis Barker compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e by Paul Crespel (p.293), and at the trademarklondon.com website.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in good condition, working order, and finds North very well. The case and lid are in good condition, with some marks and signs of wear. Much of the original lacquered finish is still present, although quite worn on the top of the lid. The lid fits very well. The glass is in very good condition. The paper compass card and blued needle are in very good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 40mm diameter (48mm inc. loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29407631212596,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_lid_needle_sep3_-_8.jpg?v=1567582184"},{"product_id":"francis-barker-colonial-pocket-compass-1","title":"Francis Barker 'Colonial' Pocket Compass","description":"\u003cp\u003eA brass Hunter cased, Francis Barker \u0026amp; Son pocket compass, dating from c.1890-1926. Although there are no maker's marks visible, this compass is the 'Improved Colonial, No. 3014' compass which was made by Barker and featured in many Barker catalogues from the 1890s until the mid 1920s. This one is unusual in that it has a glass window with an engraved sighting line in the lid, features not normally seen in this compass. Further details of this Barker compass design can be found in: \u003cem\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e (p.236) by Paul Crespel, and at the trademarklondon.com website. It also features in Kornelia Takac's book \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e on p.68.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is in very good condition, full working order and finds North very well. The case is in very good condition with the original blackened finish in excellent condition. The dial glass is in very good condition. The lid glass has a crack, which is stable and secure, and I have left it in place to preserve the originality of the compass. (A new spare glass of the correct size will be included, in case you prefer to replace the original). The hand drawn paper compass card is in very good condition. The pointer is an English Bar Needle with a jewelled cap. The original transit lock is present and fully functional. The lid itself is a very good fit, closing with a good firm snap. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 45mm (excluding loop), 65mm (inc. loop)\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29428237238324,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Barker_colonial_sep5_-_17.jpg?v=1567699362"},{"product_id":"singers-patent-prismatic-compass-c-1868","title":"Singer's Patent Prismatic Compass c.1868","description":"\u003cp\u003eA very rare Singer's Patent Prismatic pocket compass, dating from around 1868. With a brass case, prismatic sights, jewelled pivot, and mother of pearl compass card. One of the earliest prismatic compasses, it represents the transition between the early 19th century Schmalcalder types and the Verner's Patent compasses of the 1890s to early 1900s. The inclusion of the wording 'Singer's Patent' combined with the lack of a serial number shows that the compass was made around the time Singer's patent expired in 1868. The mother of pearl compass card is hand painted in the classic Singer's design, and marked 'Singer's Patent'. This type of compass was usually made with a paper compass card, with the mother of pearl version being much more uncommon. Although there are no makers marks, this design is known to have been made by Francis Barker before 1875, and examples can be seen at compassmuseum.com, and in Kornelia Takacs book \u003cem\u003eCompass Chronicles\u003c\/em\u003e (Schiffer, 2010). \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSamuel Berry Singer (1796 - c.1875) \u003c\/strong\u003ewas a master mariner from Southampton when he patented his unique design in July 1861. Its high contrast design was intended to be much easier to read in low light than conventional compasses of the time. He did not benefit greatly from his invention, the patent lapsed in 1868, and he ended his days living in poverty in Kincardine on the Firth of Forth.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition and good working order. The compass finds north well. The mother of pearl card is in very good condition. The transit lock (operated by the button at the bow) is not working, and does not lock the dial, but this has no other effect on the functioning of the compass. There is some wear to the original blackened or oxidised finish of the case.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 50mm (Diameter), 65mm inc. prism\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":29440635535412,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Singers_Prism_-_12.jpg?v=1568278963"},{"product_id":"barker-wooden-pocket-compass-c-1850","title":"Francis Barker Wooden Pocket Compass c.1850","description":"\u003cp\u003eA Francis Barker mahogany cased compass, made c.1850-1870. This type of wood cased compass was produced from around the end of the 18th century to the late 19th century. This example has a typically ornate Victorian compass card design. It also has the  distinctive, delicate and finely balanced blued compass needle, with gilt North and South points. Although there are no maker's marks, the 'hidden' hinges and '7' shaped clasps are characteristic features of many compasses made by Francis Barker. The compass has a paper card, flat blued needle, brass pivot, and automatic transit lock, operated by a small pin and lever when the lid is closed.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThere is a handwritten inscription inside the lid: '\u003cstrong\u003eJohn Tomlinson, Pilsley Acre House, Chesterfield'\u003c\/strong\u003e. John Tomlinson was a Victorian mining surveyor, working for the Pilsley Colliery Company during the late 19th century. He is listed in \u003cem\u003eKelly's Directory of Derbyshire\u003c\/em\u003e (May 1891) as 'surveyor to Pilsley Colliery Co.' He was also a member of the Institute of Mining Engineers.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn very good condition, and full working order, with just the normal signs of age and use. The compass finds North very well. The transit lock is working well. The glass, needle, and compass card are in very good condition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/strong\u003e 90mm x 90mm x 20mm\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30902981492875,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Georgian_Tomlinson_compass_-_11_9deea905-e195-4720-851e-6c98852dd573.jpg?v=1571815795"},{"product_id":"ww1-1915-ed-koehn-military-compass","title":"WW1 Ed. Koehn Mk V Military Compass (1915)","description":"A rare WW1 British army officers Mk V pocket compass, dating from 1915. This type of compass was standard issue in the British army at the start of WW1, gradually being replaced by the various models of the Verner’s Pattern Prismatic Service Compass as the war progressed. This example has a very rare aluminium silver and black Singer’s type card design with a prominent 'N’ north marker (most Mk V army compasses were produced with a simpler black and white Singer's design, examples of which can be seen in Kornelia Takacs Compass Chronicles (Schiffer, 2010), p.69-70). The maker’s mark for ‘Ed. Koehn, Geneva, Switzerland’, the ‘V’ for Mark V, the date 1915, and the War Department ‘Broad Arrow’ mark are engraved on the lid. The compass has a nickel plated brass hunter case, floating aluminium compass card, jewelled pivot, and a transit lock operated when the lid is closed.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEd. Koehn:\u003c\/strong\u003e was a prominent Swiss watchmaker, known to have made high quality clocks and watches, with examples retailed by Tiffany \u0026amp; Co. During WW1 they supplied Mk V and Verner’s Pattern compasses to the British armed forces. \u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition:\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe compass is in good condition and finds North very well. The transit lock is present and working. The glass is in very good condition. The aluminium compass card is in excellent condition. The case is in good condition, with some wear to the original nickel plated finish and a few marks. The nickel plated finish inside the lid is in excellent condition. The small button at the bow (which when depressed should open the case) is missing, but the case still opens easily if a fingernail is pressed under the edge of the lid. The lid closes with a good firm snap and fits very well. The lid hinge is in very good condition.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eDimensions: 45mm diameter (65mm inc. bow \u0026amp; loop), 15mm depth","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":30938037354635,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/WW1_Ed_Koehn_compass_-_12.jpg?v=1571821854"},{"product_id":"ww2-francis-barker-mk-iii-compass","title":"WW2 F. Barker Mk III Military Compass (1945)","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.4667px; color: #585555;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.4667px; color: #585555;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt; font-weight: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eA WW2 F. Barker Mk III Military prismatic Compass, complete with a custom-made fitted wooden case, This compass was retailed by T.G. Co. Ltd (The Gramophone Company - part of the EMI group). On the underside of the compass are the serial number and a makers identification mark, together with the War Office broad arrow stamp. \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"text-align: inherit;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"\u003eT.G. Co. Ltd compasses were made by F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932) Ltd, with the letter \u003c\/span\u003e‘\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"\u003eB\u003c\/span\u003e’\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 11pt;\"\u003e applied as a prefix to the serial number to show that it was manufactured by Barker. The Mk III was first produced in 1932 and remained in production until the late 1960s. It was the standard issue British Army compass throughout WW2.\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis compass has been completely overhauled and restored at sometime in the past, with its original black painted finish removed, the original luminous paint replaced, the inside of the lid painted white, and the brass case polished. There is a bubble in the fluid, but this can be temporarily hidden in the bubble trap by inverting the compass.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.4667px; color: #585555;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eFurther details of the Mk III compass can be found in: \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cem style=\"font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eTrade Mark London\u003c\/em\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003e(p.247-9) by Paul Crespel, at the trademarklondon.com website\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #585555;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.46666717529297px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #585555;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.46666717529297px;\"\u003eThe compass is in good condition, good working order, and finds North well. \u003cspan style=\"font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit;\"\u003eThe brass case is in good condition, with general signs of wear and use. There is a bubble in the fluid, but this does not affect the function of the compass, and can be temporarily hidden in the bubble trap by inverting the compass. The luminous night lights have now expired and no longer 'glow in the dark'. The fitted wooden case is in very good condition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.46666717529297px;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"color: #585555;\"\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.46666717529297px;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003eDimensions:\u003c\/b\u003e 58mm diameter (85mm inc. prism) x 30mm\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan style=\"line-height: 23.46666717529297px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFrancis Barker \u0026amp; Son\u003c\/strong\u003e: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti \u0026amp; Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker \u0026amp; Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by Pyser-Optics. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.         \u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e \u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: inherit; text-align: inherit; line-height: 23.4667px; color: #585555;\"\u003e\u003cb\u003e\u003cbr\u003e***Please Note: this compass is \u003cbr\u003enot available for shipping to the USA***\u003c\/b\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Compass Library","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":31379191300235,"sku":"","price":0.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/products\/Maker_MK_III_box_-_26.jpg?v=1582412088"}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0275\/6131\/collections\/RGS_slide09.jpg?v=1490373449","url":"https:\/\/www.compasslibrary.com\/en-nl\/collections\/compass-store.oembed?page=19","provider":"Compass Library","version":"1.0","type":"link"}