Code BA120507334: Antique Compendium by James Lucking & Co. of Birmingham, c. 1900
|
This is a rare compendium made by James Lucking & Co. of Birmingham.
These instruments were favored amongst travelers, explorers and balloonists during their journeys.
This particular set contains three instruments: a compass, a barometer and a thermometer.
I would place its manufacture date to around 1900.
It comes in an oval leather case that is still in excellent condition with working push button and strong hinges.
The lid closes firmly as it should. The brown leather inside the case is still in excellent condition.
The case has also a nice feature that allows this compendium to be easily displayed as a photo frame.
The external case measures: 143 mm x 91 mm x 28 mm.
The compass: The compass has a gilt metal case in excellent condition without dings or dents. It has a Singer's Patent like dial also in excellent condition (virtually new). The dial can be locked/released by acting on a pull/push button at the top of the crown under the loop. The beveled glass crystal is in excellent condition without scratches or chips. It is marked ENGLAND REG. 416645. The British National Archives (South-West London) gave the following information: "The design no. 416645 was published on page 1318 of the Official Journal of patents dated 30th September 1903, covering designs registered in the week ending 17th September 1903. The owners were Francis Barker & Son, of 12 Clerkenwell Rd, London WC" (text from the Compass Museum). The compass is in full working order and points North easily and precisely. Measures 48mm in diameter. The barometer: The barometer is also in excellent condition. It also comes in a gilt metal case with a rotating bezel for the use of the altimeter function. The dial is numbered in inches of mercury (from 21 to 31) and in feet (from 0 to 10000). It is marked "Compensated" and gives indication to weather changes (RAIN, CHANGE, FAIR). It is clearly signed JAMES LUCKING & Co., 5, Corporation Street, Birmingham. The dial is still in excellent condition. The barometer is in full working order and has been tested with an air bag. Measures 48mm in diameter. The thermometer: The thermometer is lodged between the compass and the barometer. It is set in ivory and in full working order and reads the correct temperature. It has two scales of temperatures: in Celsius and Fahrenheit. This is a nice and rare quality pocket combination set that would make a great gift. |
SOLD
