Code BA22010401: Antique Leather-Cased Troughton & Simms, London Pocket Compass, c. 1820
| This is an extremely rare pocket compass made by Troughton & Simms around 1820. More information about the makers may be found here: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Troughton & Simms). The compass has an unusual sighting vanes that may be unfolded upright for sighting. The compass case is made of gilt metal, that is still in excellent condition with expected loss to the gilt at some spots. The porcelain dial is a real beauty. It is numbered every 10 degrees and graduated in degrees. Between North and East, the numbers go from 0 to 90, than from 90 to 0 between East and South. The same pattern is repeated between South and West, and between West and North. This kind of compass is highly precise and several examples were used by the military for this reason. The porcelain dial is free of chips or hairlines. It is clearly signed: TROUGHTON & SIMMS, LONDON. The compass has a quality bar needle with a jewelled brass cap, very sensitive and points North without any problem. The needle can be locked in place by sliding a small lever at the bottom of the case. This lifts the brass disc located under pivot to avoid any contact of the needle with the pin. The dial is covered with a slightly domed glass crystal in excellent condition and free of chips or scratches. The compass is housed in a leathered-wooden case that is still in nice condition for its age. It has a strong hinge and is cushioned with blue velvet inside. The compass is quite large measuring around 53mm in diameter and the external case measures about 62mm in diameter. This is a unique and rare compass, especially with the sighting vanes. It would make a great gift. |
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