Code BA131001470: 12K Gold Plated Long-Neck Compass in Leather Case, c. 1820
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This is a very rare compass made around 1820 . It is called a
long-neck compass. This is an approximate date but can be determined based on the design of the case.
The case is tested 12K Gold Plated and is in excellent condition. No dings or dents. No scratches. No brassing.
This compass has a floating dial with very nice pattern and typically nautical design. It is
graduated every 2 degrees and numbered every 10 degrees, in four quadrants,
starting from 0 to 90 from North to East, then decreasing from 90 to 0
from East to South. The same pattern is repeated between North and West
and between West and South.
The dial has a jeweled brass cap at the center that rests on the pivot.
Under the long neck there is a small lever that is used to activate the transit lock,
which freezes the dial when the compass is not in use.
This function is a must on quality compasses since it prevents undue
wear to the pivot and avoid breaking the jewel if the compass accidentally receives a shock.
To freeze the dial the lever must be pushed counter-clock wise. To release the dial, the lever must be pushed clockwise.
The red wooden Moroccan leather covering case is lined. It is in excellent condition without
damage or any loss of leather. Only some marks from use. It has a strong hinge and functional hook to securely close the case.
There is a hand-written inscription inside the case with presumably the name of its owner and a date:
PAUL ..., 1832 The compass is in excellent working order and finding North very easily. The compass is very precise and can be used as a precision instrument. The compass still has its original slightly convex glass crystal, which is in excellent condition without any scratches or chips. The length from bottom to the bow is 63mm. The diameter of the case is 42mm. The diameter of the leather case is 53mm. This is to be considered as extremely rare and has great value for the serious collector. |
SOLD
