A vintage transparent compass, dating from the mid 20th century. Marked 'Foreign' it was most probably made in Japan in the 1950's or 1960's for export. The compass has a blued arrow-shaped needle, finely balanced between two glass lenses, held together by a nickel plated ring. One side of the compass card has the cardinal points marked around the edge of the dial, while the other side has degree markings around the edge.
Transparent compasses were intended to be used laid upon a map, allowing the map details to be viewed through the compass. Francis Barker & Son made similar transparent compasses (known as the 'Pebble Lens') from the late 19th century until the 1920's - although Barker's design featured magnifying lenses, wheras Japanese versions like this one had plain glass that was non-magnifying. This particular compass is so close in style to Barker's transparent compasses that it may well have been based on one of their early 20th century designs.
Condition:
In very good condition, good working order, and finds North very well. The case, glass, dial and needle are in very good condition.
Dimensions : 33mm diameter (45mm inc. loop)
