This elegant brass cased pocket compass dates to the second half of the 19th century and is signed 'H.Hughes & Son, 59 Fenchurch St, London' around the centre of the dial.
Made by Henry Hughes & Son around 1870, the stylish blued steel directional needle is engraved N & S in gold lettering & pivots on a brass capped bearing above a traditional dial, under a clean crystal with only very minor edge chips.
Although the lacquered brass case does have some minor lacquer loss on the underside, it is free of any dents or deformities.
A fine antique compass, it has the classic compass rose design with a distinctive Fleur de Lis crest denoting North, and its original brass push fit lid.
In good working order, this antique compass is in very good condition and measures 38mm in diameter.

A fine example of a full hunter cased pocket watch style compass, with a gemstone pivot floating dial, and set in a nickel plated case.
Although not signed by any maker, it was probably made by Francis Barker in the pre WW2 period, and is the MK VII version which was the last model of the pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1 for British Army Officers.
In good condition, the dent free case retains all its nickel plating and has a clean undamaged crystal.
All in good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter.

Made by Francis Barker in the pre WW2 period this particular Angle of Sight instrument has a dual purpose function in that it incorporates a prismatic compass consisting of a green card dial with a 360 degree scale, and a Centimetres per Metre clinometer visible in the vertical plane.
These two functions are controlled by the brass button on the side which locks the compass when using the clinometer, and vice versa.
In good condition, the body is engraved 'PATENT NO 1926. MADE BY F. BARKER & SON LONDON FOR CASTANON MONGEY. CIA MADRID. 4751'.
This type of instrument was often used by civil engineers and also artillery regiments in the British army for range and trajectory calculations to target heavy guns.
In good condition including its leather case, the only blemish being some scuffing around the edges of the green card dial.
A precision instrument in good working order, it weighs 430 grams in its case and measures 70mm in diameter across the main body.

This small brass cased pocket compass with a separate push fit lid dates to the last quarter of the 19th century and was made by Francis Barker & Son as evidenced by the small FBS logo within the Trademark London triangle (the reversed 'S' indicating it was made after the death of Francis Barker in 1875).
In good condition all round, the distinctive black & white Singers Patent style aluminium dial has a star denoting North, housed under a clean glass crystal
In working order and measuring 40mm in diameter, the polished brass case is free of any dents as is the original domed lid and comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

This is an unusual circular desk top compass measuring 6 ½" (165mm) in diameter, and identical to those made by Francis Barker & Son, although in this instance does not carry the Trade Mark London logo,which suggests it was made on a wholesale basis for onward retail.
The attractive paper dial is in clean condition and is set under a jewelled steel needle measuring 4½" (115mm) in length, the glass crystal is also in good condition.
Weighing 260 grams and dating to around 1890, this mahogany cased compass was probably intended for use as an interesting desk ornament, a purpose it would still fulfill today.
In full working order, it finds North well and takes a little time to settle, a quite splendid Victorian compass with rare novelty value.

Although not signed by any maker, this full hunter cased pocket compass was probably made by Francis Barker in the pre WW2 period, and is the MK VII version, which was the last model of the pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1 for British Army Officers.
In very good condition, the dent free case retains all its nickel plating and has a clean undamaged crystal, under which the floating dial pivots on a gemstone bearing.
All in good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter.

This early Victorian pocket compass dates to circa 1850, and is set in a hinged mahogany block 2½" (65mm) square, with two chamfered edges on the lid.
The shapely blued steel needle sits above a clean paper compass rose divided into four 90 degree quadrants, and also showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North.
The needle locks in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed, and is fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.
A genuine antique compass with an attractive compass rose design, in very good cosmetic condition and good working order.

Although unsigned, the design and style of this pocket compass is very similar to one made by a relatively unknown maker W. H Moralee who was working in North Shields during the first half of the 19th century.
A genuine antique compass, it has a distinctive black & white floating card dial which pivots on a gemstone under a clean glass crystal.
Housed in a dent free polished brass case, with original push fit lid, there is a small chip in the glass edge where a transit lock would have been but is no longer present. Nevertheless this does not affect the function of the compass which is in good working order and measures 55mm diameter by 15mm deep.

Dennison compasses from the World War I period have always been highly sought after by collectors, but this example is particularly special as it comes with its original Dennison branded box.
Engraved 'Dennison Birmingham VI 58319 1917' it also has the military arrow /|\ on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
Housed in a full hunter dent free nickel case, the beveled glass crystal covers a jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In excellent cosmetic condition and fully working, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.
These iconic compasses in their original box very rarely come up for sale, so this would be a great addition to any collection.

Made by J H Steward toward the latter part of the 19th Century, this distinctive hunter cased pocket compass has a classic black & white design on a mother of pearl jewelled pivot dial and is signed 'J. H. Steward, London'.
It's in very good clean condition with a clear undamaged crystal, on which the main cardinal points are painted in red on the underside.
The brass body measures 54mm in diameter not including the bow, and is also in good condition with no dents.
This is a sturdy compass in full working order, and there is also a transit lock activated by lid closure to secure the dial when not in use.

Similar in design to the Verner's MK III pattern, this early 20th century brass cased half-hunter compass was made by Lawrence and Mayo and interestingly appears to be titled "The Groper" which reassuringly relates to the lesser known dictionary definition 'To make one's way'.
L & M trace their roots to two London based Jewish families, who set up operations all over the world, initially in London and then the Indian subcontinent.
Not much information is available on the early history of the company in London, but its reputation as makers of high quality scientific instruments was well known. Records show that L & M opened its first Indian office in Calcutta in the year 1877 and rapidly became India's leading opticians with a prestigious client list that included Mahatma Gandhi and Pandit Neru.
This non-prismatic model has a white compass card surrounded by a silvered bearing ring as well as a manual transit lock and finger brake on one side.
In full working order, it measures 50mm in diameter and is in good dent free condition with a clean undamaged beveled crystal, although the rubber anti slip ring on the underside is a later replacement.

A fine example of a full hunter cased pocket watch style compass, with a gemstone pivot floating dial, and set in a nickel plated case.
Although not signed by any maker, it was probably made by Francis Barker in the pre WW2 period, and is the MK VII version which was the last model of the pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1 for British Army Officers.
In very good condition, the dent free case retains all its nickel plating and has a clean undamaged crystal.
All in good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter.

Made from bronzed brass, this late 19th century Surveyors compass is signed "Negretti & Zambra London" on the dial.
In full working order, the cross bar needle incorporating a jewelled pivot, is set over a silvered aluminium two tier dial with a 360 degree outer scale, and 90 degree quadrants on the inner scale.
The two sight vanes at either side also activate a transit lock when folded and the face glass remains protected under a matching press fit lid when not in use.
Located on the underside is a threaded boss for the accompanying tripod attachment, which would have been used by surveyors when mapping topography.
An impressive instrument in good working order, it has a dial diameter of 75mm and weighs just under 500 grams with it's tripod attachment.

This WW1 era Verner's Pattern MK VI prismatic marching compass was the forerunner of the more common MK VII and MK VIII models used during WW1.
It's dated 1912 and signed 'E.R. WATTS & SON, LONDON. 1912, No 3646 \|//|\' on the underside and stamped 'VERNER'S PATTERN VI' on the lid.
The double broad arrow also shows it was later officially decommissioned for sale into the civilian market.
The MK VI is less common and unusual to find in relatively good condition, particularly with its centre paper label completely intact, although the anti slip ring appears to be a later replacement. It is accompanied by a leather case which is in good condition with all stitching intact and has the letters "E.V.B" impressed on one side, and on the other side is written "J R Richardson R.M" in faint pen, which would have been a previous owner, possibly in the Royal Marines.
In good working order, it has the mother of pearl dial for low light reading and is not only a sought after compass for a collector, but still practical today for hill walking and similar pursuits.

This elegant brass cased pocket compass with a separate push fit lid dates to the second half of the 19th century.
An unsigned example, it has an English cross bar needle pivoting on a gemstone bearing over a paper dial, denoting 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points.
In working order and measuring 40mm in diameter, the brass case is free of any dents, as is the matching original lid, in addition the separate push button transit lock is also fully functional.
Supplied with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

An iconic WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved Dennison Birmingham VI 51892 1917 with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
Housed in a full hunter dent free nickel case, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In excellent cosmetic condition and fully working, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.
A fine example from the most prolific maker of this style of compass.

Newquay Sailing Club was founded in 1954 and this hunter cased pocket compass appears to have been given as prize for the team race competition in 1956, so quite early in the clubs history.
Engraved "N.S.C. Newquay Cup Team Race 1956"on the underside, the compass itself was probably made by Francis Barker and is the MK VII version which was the last model of the pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1 for British Army Officers.
Set in a nickel plated case with a gemstone pivot floating dial, it's in good dent free condition and fully working.
Measuring 45mm in diameter, this is not only a collectable compass in its own right, but with the added interest for anyone associated with Newquay Sailing Club which is still active today.

Dating to circa 1820, this impressive Georgian travellers pocket compass is set in a hinged mahogany case measuring 3" (78mm) square.
Complimented by the small hand made brass hinges and fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, and is in very good condition for a 200 year old compass.
The elegant blued steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' gold letters for clarity, and sits under a glass crystal which is free of any damage.
In good working order, the needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed.
The mahogany case is free of any splits or cracks, although there is a small pencil mark on the interior lid (see photo).
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

Dating to the early part of the 19th Century, this Georgian brass cased explorers pocket compass has a distinctive floating card dial of an early design.
Although unsigned, the black and white dial is in very good condition and is divided into four 90 degree quadrants with a Fleur De Lis denoting North and pivots on a brass bearing housed under a clean glass crystal, which is free of any chips or cracks.
The dent free brass case is also in good condition, still having much of its original lacquer, coupled with a warm aged patina and protected by a separate push on lid.
In good working order the compass measures 70mm diameter, 20mm deep and weighs just under 220 grams.

This distinctive late Victorian brass cased pocket compass dating to around 1890, was made by the renowned firm of J H Steward and is signed 'J.H.STEWARD, 406 & 457 STRAND, LONDON'.
The silvered aluminium compass dial has 8 cardinal points and an outer scale divided into four quadrants, calibrated in one degree increments.
Direction is indicated by an English cross bar needle which pivots on a jewelled bearing under a clean undamaged crystal, and the dent free brass case is in good original condition with its brass lid, both for protecting the glass crystal and engaging the built in transit lock.
In full working order, the dimensions are 70mm diameter and 17mm deep, a quite rare yet robust compass by a very collectable maker.

This pocket compass dates to the WW1 era and has a distinctive black & white Singers patent style dial housed in a full hunter case, which is nickel plated on the inside and polished brass on the outside.
Similar in operation to the Dennison type pocket compasses of the same period, the aluminium dial pivots on a gemstone bearing and is set under a clean bevelled crystal.
In good working order and dent free, this is an impressive compass measuring 45mm diameter, not including the bow.

This mid 19th century brass prismatic sighting compass made by Elliott Brothers is signed 'ELLIOTT BROS, CHARING CROSS, LONDON' on the dial around the pivot.
The founder William Elliott formed a partnership with his sons Frederick and Charles in 1850 and the firm became known as Elliott & Sons, the name later changing to Elliott Bros from 1854 after William retired in 1853. The Charing Cross address dates this compass to 1856-1858 as they only operated from this address for that period.
In full working order including the transit lock activated by the folding sight vane, the cosmetic condition is good, with a clean crystal under which the floating green card dial pivots on a gemstone bearing.
The fitted lid and underside is inscribed with an issue number of '365' and doubles as a stand when attached to the base.
A quality antique instrument measuring 75mm in diameter it comes in a leather case which is also in good condition with some repairs to the straps. The case has the number 254 imprinted along with some lettering, possibly of a previous owner but difficult to read.
The compass and case together weigh just under 300 grams.

This Angle of Sight instrument is dual purpose in that it incorporates a prismatic compass, consisting of a silvered ring dial with a 360 degree scale, and an inches per yard clinometer visible in the vertical plane. These two functions are controlled by the brass button on the side which locks the compass when using the clinometer, and vice versa.
(A similar model appears in a 1919 Francis Barker catalogue, where its referred to as a ‘combined altitude instrument and prismatic compass’)
Retaining virtually all of its original black finish, it’s engraved 'Cooke Troughton & Simms Ltd, YORK. ENGLAND'.
In full working order, this type of instrument was often used by civil engineers and also artillery regiments in the British army for range calculations and targeting heavy guns.
In very good condition including its leather case, this is a substantial instrument, which weighs 500 grams including the case, and measures 70mm in diameter across the main body.

This impressive English surveyors compass was made sometime around the beginning of the 19th century and has a stepped outer chapter ring with the scale engraved 0-360 degrees in one degree increments.
The shapely blued steel needle pivots above the silvered dial under a clean, chip free glass crystal, and also has a lid activated transit lock.
A substantial quality compass example it measures 135mm x 130mm x 31mm, with a dial diameter of 110mm, and weighs just over 500 grams.
In good working order, the cosmetic condition of the compass is very good with a clean dial and although unsigned, the quality would indicate it was likely made by one of the more prominent instrument makers of the time, possibly Dollond.

Dating to the first quarter of the 19th century, this surveyors compass is signed 'Bate London'.
Robert Brettell Bate started out in 1804, inheriting his uncles business and quickly rose to prominence as a provider of hydrometers following the death of Bartholomew Sikes, before expanding into optics and other scientific and mathematical instruments.
In 1833 he served as Master of the Spectacle Makers’ Guild and as well as writing and publishing a number of instructional handbooks, he was also Optician in Ordinary to King George IV and Queen Victoria and operated out of 21 Poultry Lane until his death in 1847.
This impressive brass surveying compass has two foldable sight vanes set above a silvered dial with 8 cardinal and intercardinal points surrounded by a full 360 degree stepped scale, and a steel needle that pivots on a brass bearing.
The entire dial can be fully rotated by turning of a brass knob on the underside, which would have been used for surveyors to maintain their sightline to geographical landmarks, whilst also recording their relative position to North without physically rotating the compass.
The underside has a threaded boss for attaching to a tripod as well as a sliding transit lock to hold the needle in place when not in use. (please note there are later replacement fixings attaching the boss to the underside).
Although the lid has a minor dent (see photos) it fits the compass frame securely, protecting the glass when not in use.
In full working order, this is a substantial item weighing 1430 grams, measuring 125mm in diameter and 210mm in length.
A quite unique compass by an important instrument maker also celebrated for his nautical instruments.

An unusual example of a WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass made as a commemorative piece, engraved 'MNF BY L. KAMM WAR SOUVENIR 1914 - 1919 LONDON' although the markings are quite worn but still readable.
Housed in a Dennison nickel case which is in very good condition, the beveled glass crystal covers an attractive floating dial with a gemstone bearing for reduced friction.
In good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.

This large Victorian mahogany cased desk top compass measures 6¼" (160mm) dial diameter, the case being 7¼" (185mm) square by (28mm) depth, and made during the last quarter of the 19th century in London, for use as an educational aid in schools.
The Elementary Education Act of 1870 created elected school boards to build & run schools, and this compass was made for the London School Board by the maker W.W. Hooper, the attractive paper dial reads 'SCHOOL BOARD FOR LONDON. W.W. HOOPER, BOW, E.'
The School boards were abolished in 1902 and replaced by local education authorities.
Not only a very impressive compass, but also quite a rare item which is part of social history.
In good condition, there is a repair to a couple of age cracks in the mahogany base which have been wax filled, (see photo).
North is a fleur-de-lis and there are 32 Cardinal & inter cardinal points plus an outer scale with four 90 degree quadrants.
Weighing just under 500 grams, it's in good working order including the transit lock activated by lid closure.

This early 20th century gimbal mounted ships compass carries the famous 'Sestrel' logo, the trademark of Henry Browne & Son, the important and highly respected maker of quality nautical instruments, used on naval & merchant ships since the mid 19th century.
The dry card floating dial pivots on a gemstone bearing, has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with the outer edge having a 360 degree scale, and North is denoted by the distinctive triangular Sestrel logo.
In excellent condition all round, the card dial is clean and the glass cover is free from any chips or cracks.
The compass is mounted in a hardwood box with separate sliding lid, dimensions are 5 ½" (140mm) square by 4" (100mm) deep, and the compass bowl diameter is 3¼ "(80mm).
An impressive compass in good working order and would look great in most surroundings, it weighs just over 1kg.

This is an elegant Victorian brass cased traveller's pocket compass dating to circa 1860.
Although unsigned this compass is clearly a quality piece with a floating card dial which is surprisingly clean for an item well over 150 years old.
The distinctive black and white dial has 32 cardinal and inter cardinal points with a fluer de lis indicating north, under a clean crystal.
Housed in dent free brass case with original domed lid, it's in full working order and measures 50mm diameter by 15mm deep.

Dating to the first half of the 19th century circa 1840, this is a Mariners brass gimballed compass.
Housed in a brass case with a separate brass lid, it measures 77mm in overall diameter, and stands 40mm high.
In good condition, the traditional compass card pivots on a brass bearing, and sits in a 62mm diameter brass bowl.
Although unsigned this is clearly a quality instrument weighing just over 310 grams, and probably made by one of the more prominent makers of the day.
In working order, the brass has been highly polished and the lead balancing weight on the bowl underside is a little untidy, but doesn't detract from what is quite a rare antique compass.

This WW2 full hunter cased British Army Officers pocket compass is engraved 'MK VI 1940, F Barker & Son (1932) Ltd, London, B5689' on the lid and also has the War department military arrow, which shows it was issued into service.
Made by Francis Barker and set in a Dennison hunter case, stamped 'DENNISON WATCH CASE CO LTD' inside the base cover, its in very good condition, with a bevelled glass crystal covering the jewelled floating dial.
Measuring 45mm in diameter and in full working order, with a transit lock activated by lid closure.

A rare example of a MK 3 military prismatic compass, made by Henry Browne and Son, probably a few years after WW2.
It has a liquid damped bowl, free of any bubbles with a mother of pearl dial calibrated in 360 degrees, and is in full working order finding and settling on north quickly.
The compass body is of blackened brass, with only some minor paint loss here and there with the rubber anti slip ring on the base also in good condition.
Engraved on the base is 'H.B. & S. Ltd BARKING /|\ MK 3 REF. No. 6E/395 No 226/52', it also has the War department broad arrow, indicating this compass was issued into military service.
It comes with a sturdy leather carry case which is in good original condition and unbroken stitching.
Weighing just under 350 grams in it's case, a collectable military compass from a well respected maker, and still very practical for use today.

This WW2 era MK IX prismatic marching compass is very similar to the original Verner's style compasses of WW1, with only subtle differences.
It has a clean aluminium dial with a gemstone bearing, and is in very good condition, retaining virtually all its original black finish.
Complete with its leather case embossed 'England', it also has a sturdy carry strap and all stitching is intact.
In excellent condition, and in full working order, it's accompanied by the 72 page handbook 'MAP WORK FOR CADETS AND OTHERS By Edward V. Lane' first published in 1943, which aside from a worn spine (see photo) is in otherwise good condition.
Although unsigned, Francis Barker had the patent rights for many military compasses including this model, and its likely this is a Barker compass or made under licence.

This is a rare example of a late 19th century deck compass with a Singer's Patent mother of pearl dial, mounted on gimbals in a mahogany case with a hinged lid.
Usually these styles of compasses are quite large, but this particular example, is only 97mm square and 70mm in height, with the compass bowl being just 58mm in diameter, making it a very compact version and therefore much less common.
The floating dial is of the distinctive singer's patent style black and white pattern and is printed with the words 'SINGER'S PATENT'.
It pivots on a gemstone bearing, and is set within a lacquered brass bowl which is free of any knocks or dents and retains most of its original finish.
The cosmetic condition is very good, although the wooden box lid has been reconstructed to a large extent, but is perfectly sound and snaps shut.
A robust little compass weighing under 340 grams it's in full working order with a clean dial and glass crystal.

A nice example of an early Victorian mahogany cased pocket compass measuring 57mm square by 24mm deep, with an attractive paper dial, it dates to the middle part of the 19th century.
The lid is attached by small hand made square hinges, fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp and the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants, showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North.
The steel directional needle is impressed with a gold dot for North, and sits under the clean glass crystal which is free of any damage.
On the underside is written faintley "W Lee. London Road Reading, Berks", there looks to be additional, illegible text written (see photo).
My limited research suggests the compass may have belonged to William Lee who was proprietor of The Marquis of Granby tavern from 1856 to 1875. The Marquis of Granby itself dates to the late 1700's and operated consistently for almost 150 years before being converted into a cinema in the early 20th century.
A genuine antique compass, it's in full working order including a transit lock activated by lid closure, this is a small part of Readings social history.

James Joseph Hicks worked in Hatton Garden, London from 1861, making and selling a wide variety of instruments, becoming one of the most prolific instrument makers in the country during the 19th century.
This impressive late Victorian hunter cased pocket compass is very faintly signed 'J HICKS LONDON' on the attractive aluminium black and white dial which pivots on a gemstone bearing under a clear beveled glass, which also has the main cardinal points printed in red.
Housed in a brass case free from any dents, it is slightly tarnished on the underside and has a previous owners lightly scribed initials 'DMD' (see photo).
In full working order including the transit lock which is activated when the lid is closed, this is a nice example of a more unusual pocket compass by a prestigious instrument maker.
Measuring 50mm diameter by 15mm deep and weighing just under 140 grams, it comes in a later velvet drawstring pouch for protection.

The majority of MK V British Army Officers pocket compasses were made during the WW1 period up to 1917, when they were superceded by the MK VI version.
This 1916 example is engraved 'Dennison Birmingham V 105660 1916' with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
The full hunter nickel case is in very good condition free of any dents, and the beveled glass crystal covers a Singers Patent style jewelled bearing dial, which has all its original markings intact.
In good working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem.

This is an elegant Victorian brass cased travellers compass with a very clean traditional dial, denoting 16 cardinal and inter cardinal points, under a clean crystal.
The stylish blued steel needle has N & S engraved in gold lettering for clarity, and the brass case is in good condition, with no dents.
A fine antique compass dating to the mid 19th century, it has the classic compass rose design with a distinctive Fleur de Lis crest denoting North and its original brass push fit lid.
In full working order and measuring 45mm diameter and 12mm deep, it weighs just 40 grams, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

A larger than usual full hunter cased pocket compass, with a decorative black on white floating card dial on a jewelled pivot, covered by a domed crystal which is in good undamaged condition.
Pocket watch style compasses are usually 45mm diameter, but this model is 52mm diameter and 16mm in depth.
In good working order, the case is in good dent free condition and has been polished back to brass on the outside which contrasts nicely with the nickel plating on the inside.
Although unsigned this is a quality compass in full working order, dating to the latter part 19th century.

Dating to circa 1820, this impressive Georgian travellers compass is set in a hinged mahogany case measuring 67mm square.
Complimented by the small hand made triangular brass hinges and fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, and is in very good condition for a 200 year old compass.
The elegant blued steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' letters and sits under a clean glass crystal.
In good working order, the needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed, and two pins on either side of the dial to keep the lid flush with the main body.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, the mahogany case is free of any splits or cracks.

This is a Hutchinsons Form Prismatic compass made by Francis Barker in the pre-WW1 period.
Engraved 'BARKERS PATENT PAT: No:29677 1910' it has seven cardinal and intercardinal points etched into the frame body and would have been used for either mining or military purposes.
A precision instrument which incorporates a prismatic compass, consisting of a black on white aluminium dial with red dot North point and a transparant 360 degree outer rim (per the patent), a folding sight vane and its original leather case which is in very good condition with all stitching intact.
In excellent condition, the black anodised brass retains virtually all its original finish and is in good working order, weighing 260 grams in its case and measuring 70mm in diameter across the main body.

Dating to circa 1820, this impressive Georgian compass is set in a hinged mahogany case measuring 3" (75mm) square, with a half chamfer on the lid.
Complimented by the small hand made brass hinges and fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp, the paper compass rose is divided into four 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass with a fleur de lys for North, and is in very good condition for a 200 year old compass.
The elegant blued steel needle is also engraved with 'N' & 'S' gold letters for clarity, and sits under a glass crystal which is free of any damage.
In good working order, the needle is locked in position for transit by a brass pin which comes into play when the lid is closed.
Apart from two lightly scored intersecting lines on the lid, the mahogany case is free of any splits or cracks and has a warm patination that only comes with the passage of time.
A genuine antique compass with a traditional design, it comes with a modern velvet drawstring pouch for added protection.

This is a Victorian green card prismatic compass engraved 'NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON' on the separate lid.
Dating to the second half of the 19th century, circa 1880, this would have been a precision instrument of high quality in its time, and likely used for surveying by both military and civilian personnel.
The large upright sight vane locks the compass card for transit, and the front prismatic viewer has a brass swivel dust cover.
Made of black lacquered brass, with a separate push on lid for protecting the glass crystal, the floating card pivots on a gemstone bearing for reduced friction.
In good cosmetic condition and despite the outer casing showing its age, the interior is very clean and tidy.
Measuring 100mm in diameter and 25mm in depth, it weighs just over 500grams and is in full working order.
It comes in a modern velvet drawstring pouch for protection.

An elegant mid Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to around 1880, it has a glass crystal which is retained by a brass bezel, and a shapely blued steel needle, with ‘N’ & ‘S engraved in gold lettering.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition, the lid is attached with two rectangular hinges and the transit lock activates on lid closure, fastened with a 7 shaped brass clasp.
Measuring 70mm x 70mm x 20mm, a nice antique compass in good working order.

Dating to the early 1900's, this Ross marching compass is very similar to the Verner's MK III patterns and was likely Ross's own design.
The lid is engraved 'ROSS Ltd, 31 COCKSPUR St. S.W. just above the small sighting window.
A non prismatic model, the white compass card is surrounded by a silvered bearing ring with a brass manual stop & finger brake on one side.
In full working order, it measures 2" in diameter and is in good cosmetic condition, with a chip free crystal.

A nice condition WW1 British Army Officers MK VI pocket compass, engraved Dennison Birmingham VI 121020 1917 and with the military arrow on the lid, showing it was issued in to service.
The full hunter nickel case is in very good condition. The bevelled glass crystal covers an attractive jewelled bearing floating dial.
In full working order, it measures 45mm in diameter not including the stem, a nice example from the most prolific maker of this style of compass.

Early Victorian nickel bodied pocket compass set in a burgundy velvet lined, leather covered outer case.
Direction is indicated by an elegant blued steel needle, engraved N & S in gold for clarity, above a traditional enamelled dial, all set under a clean domed shape crystal.
Dating from around 1850, not only is this compass a rare item, but the condition is excellent, including the outer case which still has its original ornate brass clasp.
Measuring 43mm diameter, the compass is in full working order and although unsigned, a quality antique in excess of 150 years old.

An early 19th Century mahogany cased travellers pocket compass circa 1820, made by W & S Jones LONDON as written around the centre of the dial.
Founded in the late 18th century by their father John Jones and later taken over by brothers William and Samuel, W & S Jones was a prolific optical, mathmatical and navigational instrument manufacturer between 1791-1860, and operated out of 30 Holborn London until Samuels death in 1859.
A rare example, with both crystal and dial in good condition, it measures 3" (75mm) square and has a half chamfer on the lid attached to the base by two hand made brass hinges.
The shapely blued steel needle-engraved N & S for clarity, pivots above a traditional paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants showing all the points of the compass and a fleur de lys for North.
In good working order with a functioning transit lock that activates on lid closure, a very collectable compass by an important maker.

Introduced in 1895, this Col. Verner's Sergeant's non prismatic compass by J. H. Steward is the forerunner to the successful range of Verner's pattern compasses, used extensively by the British military throughout WW1 until the start of WW2.
Designed by Colonel William Willoughby Cole Verner (1852-1922) who served in the Boer war, this is a fine example of what is a significant compass in the development of military pocket compasses.
It measures 45mm diameter across the body, and incorporates an automatic transit lock activated by lid closure.
A rare and important compass for military collectors, it's in good working order and the cosmetic condition is surprisingly good for a compass that is over 120 years old.

Considered to be the best hand held military compass in the world, this Francis Barker M-73 prismatic compass is in virtually mint condition with no paint loss, as can be seen from the photos.
Currently in use by many military forces around the world including NATO, it's made from brass/aluminium, and this example carries the Nato stock no 6605-99-960-0789 on the reverse, along with its serial no '88572' .
It's the liquid filled mils version with a precision sapphire bearing and comes with a quality stitched leather case and shoulder strap for protection in the field.
You really can't get a more accurate compass, and this is perfect for anyone involved in outdoor pursuits who needs a precision compass.
In good working order with no bubbles in the liquid, the tritium lights on the dial appear to still be active, although not as bright as when new, and there is no tritium light on the lid slot.

Weighs just over 360 grams in its case.

This is an impressive desk top compass measuring 6 ½" (165mm) in diameter, and made by Francis Barker & Son carrying their small but familiar Trade Mark London, arranged in a triangle with an inset logo reading B&S.
The attractive paper dial is in clean condition and is set under a jewelled steel needle measuring nearly 4.5" (115mm) in length, the glass crystal is also original and in excellent condition.
Weighing just under 300 grams and dating to around 1890, this mahogany cased compass was probably intended for use as an interesting desk ornament, a purpose it would still fulfil today.
In full working order, it finds North well and takes a little time to settle, a quite splendid Victorian compass with rare novelty value.

An early Victorian pocket compass set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points.
Dating to around 1860, it has its original glass crystal which is retained by a brass bezel, and a stylish blued steel needle, impressed with ‘N’ & ‘S’ gold letters.
As with many wood cased compasses of the period this is unsigned, but the use of concealed hinges attaching the lid to the base, was a feature used predominately by Francis Barker, and it’s very likely this compass was made by Barker.
This is a nice clean compass, with both crystal and dial in good condition and a transit lock activated on lid closure.
A classic 19th century antique, it measures 62mm x 62mm x 16mm, and the lid is fastened with an elegant 7 shaped brass clasp.

Wood cased compasses are for the most part unsigned, but this travellers compass has a makers name which reads BANCKS LONDON on the lid.
Dating to sometime between 1796 to 1820 this is Robert Bancks, optician to the Prince of Wales who later became King George IV.
Better known for his microscopes, his instruments were signed either Banks or Bancks, and later in 1820 became Bancks & Son, who made microscopes & telescopes for Charles Darwin.
Set in a mahogany case, with an attractive paper sunburst dial, divided into 90 degree quadrants and displaying 32 cardinal and inter-cardinal points, it's in very good condition with a glass crystal retained by a brass bezel, and a shapely blued steel needle engraved 'N' & 'S' in gold letters.
In good working order, the lid is attached with two hand made square hinges and is fastened with a central brass clasp activating a transit lock when closed.
Measuring 3" (75mm) square, a very collectable compass that is well over 200 years old and signed by a renowned maker with Royal accreditation.

This brass cased, green card dial prismatic compass will be of particular interest to Negretti & Zambra collectors as it also carries the name of 'Hirsbrunner & Co Shanghai' who were sole agents for importing Negretti & Zambra instruments in to China.
Made towards the end of the 19th century circa 1890, the compass is in good cosmetic condition with a clean crystal window, under which the green dial pivots on a gemstone bearing.
In full working order, this is a quality antique instrument measuring 70mm diameter & comes with its original leather case which is also in good condition.
Compass and case together weigh just over 270 grams.

This is a very early WW1 'Angle of Sight' instrument with a low serial number, and made by J H Steward in 1916.
Most examples I have seen in the past were from the WW2 period, so quite unusual to find one this early in such good condition.
Constructed from bronzed brass, its engraved 'Angle of Sight Instrument, H.A. MK I, J. H. Steward Ltd, 1916, No 419'.
It comes with the original leather case also numbered 419, which carries the War Department arrow showing that it was military issue.
A precision instrument which incorporates a prismatic compass, consisting of a green card dial with Fleur de Lis North pointer, and a clinometer visible in the vertical plane.
In excellent condition retaining virtually all its original finish, and in full working order this type of instrument was often used by artillery regiments in the British army for range calculations and targeting heavy guns.
In good working order, weighing 425 grams in its case and measuring 70mm in diameter across the main body.

A nice example of a full hunter cased pocket watch style compass, with a gemstone pivot floating dial, engraved 'Mark VII, T.A.R.S & W Ltd, B10963'.
Made in the pre WW2 period, this is the MK VII version which was the last model of the hunter cased pocket watch style designs that were developed during WW1, and this particular one carries the War Dept arrow denoting it was issued to the military.
The initials stand for T. A. Reynolds. Son & Wardale who were instrument makers of the time, but the prefix B on the serial number indicates that the compass was probably sourced by Reynolds from Francis Barker who almost certainly made the compass.
In excellent condition, the case is good with no dents and a clean undamaged crystal, all in fine working order, including an automatic transit lock when lid closed.
Measures 45mm in diameter.

This very distinctive Victorian pocket compass is engraved 'Gregory & Co London' inside the lid, but it also has the Francis Barker trademark logo stamped in the centre, so was probably made by Barker for retail by Gregory.
The compass is in very good condition and direction is indicated by an English cross bar needle with a gemstone pivot bearing above a clean paper dial, all housed under a clean glass crystal.
In full working order, the brass hunter case is free of any dents and activates a transit lock when the lid is closed.
An elegant yet robust antique compass measuring 45mm diameter and 15mm deep.