Code BA11092930: English Mahogany Wood Cased Compass, c.1850
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This is a very rare English compass made c. 1850 (maybe earlier). It comes
in a mahogany case that is still in excellent condition for its age. No
damage, only normal signs of use. This case is unusual because it has to
screws that go up from the lower part, through the front lid, where there
are two hooks to secure the case when it is closed. This design has the
advantage of keeping the screws in place even with high pressure applied
to them by the hooks. Traditional models have the screws on the side of
the lower part. Over the years, they sometimes finish by coming off the
case. Once the wood is damaged, it is not easy to replace them. On this
one, you won't have this problem. The compass has a beautifully detailed
silver colored dial. There is also a raised chapter ring divided in
degrees numbered quarters. The needle design is unusual. It has a jeweled
cap and finds North easily and precisely. The transit lock is activated
when the lid is closed. The flat round glass crystal that covers the
compass is in excellent condition free of scratches or chips. It measures
86 x 86 x 20 mm, and the inner compass has a 78mm diameter. This is a rare
and quality compass certainly made by a quality maker.
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SOLD
