An Edwardian pocket altimeter barometer, dating from c.1905. Intended for use by soldiers, explorers, mountaineers, balloonists, or travellers. The revolving altitude scale is calibrated from zero to 10,000 feet, and the dial has additional 'Rain', 'Change', and 'Fair' markings. With a gilt brass case, blued needle, rotating bezel with altitude scale, and an adjustment screw on the rear. Complete with its original velvet and silk lined morocco leather covered case.
There are no maker's or retailers marks, but this is a high quality instrument, produced by one of the best makers of the time, such as J. H. Steward or Francis Barker. Steward described this type of barometer as the 'Military Surveying Aneroid' in their catalogues of the 1890s and 1900s. Barker was a prolific maker of pocket barometers from the Victorian era through to the early 20th century, and almost all of Barker's barometers were supplied unsigned to the retail trade, with the retailer often adding their own details to the dial.
This aneroid barometer, along with a Verner's compass and several other items, was part of a set of navigation instruments owned by Captain P. F. M. Michelli, a regular army officer, who served with the Royal Engineers during WW1. The Verner's compass was inscribed 'P. F. M. Michelli, Eton College, 1905'.
Condition
In very good condition, full working order, and passes the plastic bag pressure test. The gilt brass case is in very good condition. The bevelled glass, dial and pointer are in very good condition. The leather case has general signs of wear, wear to the silk lining, some old repairs, and is missing the top part of the push-button catch.
Dimensions : 45mm diameter (leather case: 60mm)
