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Two Maritime-Style Brass Compasses Including a Gimbaled Example in a Wooden Box

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Start price: £20

Estimated price: £20 - £30

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Description

A collection of two maritime-style brass compasses of varying designs. The first instrument is a gimbaled nautical compass mounted within a square mahogany-stained hardwood box. The brass compass housing is supported by a two-axis gimbal ring system designed to maintain a level orientation. The compass card features a weathered brass-tone finish with black printed cardinal and intercardinal points, a decorative fleur-de-lis at the North position, and a 360-degree outer scale. The protective box is lined with red velvet and fitted with brass corner brackets and a front swing latch. The second item is a standalone circular brass cased compass. It features a heavy brass body with a glass-covered face. The internal compass card includes cardinal directions and degree markings, with the inscription LONDON printed at the bottom of the card. These items are contemporary decorative reproductions of traditional nautical instruments.

Boxed compass: approximately 11cm square

Standalone compass: approximately 10cm diameter.


Condition report:

Both compasses exhibit a deliberate aged patina to the brass surfaces, with minor areas of tarnish and surface wear consistent with a vintage-style finish. The wooden box shows light surface scuffing and minor wear to the edges. The gimbal mechanism moves freely. The glass on both instruments is clear and intact. These items are sold as decorative collectibles and their accuracy for navigation has not been verified.