Lot Essay
This pattern of compass was so successful that it was issued to the Royal Navy between 1840 and 1888
Details
24 extremely fine Admiralty Pattern One Standard Compass, 1840
the 7in. (19cm.) dia compass card with screw clamp attachment, mounted within a heavily constructed copper bowl with white lining, a double silvered vernier with hair sight and two shades, the frame stamped B70, the whole mounted within a gimbal ring and painted black, contained within original mahogany issue case with hooks (leather handle missing), and accessories -- 15 x 13 x 10in. (38 x 34 x 26cm.)
See illustration
the 7in. (19cm.) dia compass card with screw clamp attachment, mounted within a heavily constructed copper bowl with white lining, a double silvered vernier with hair sight and two shades, the frame stamped B70, the whole mounted within a gimbal ring and painted black, contained within original mahogany issue case with hooks (leather handle missing), and accessories -- 15 x 13 x 10in. (38 x 34 x 26cm.)
See illustration
Literature
Fanning, A.E. Steady as she goes; A History of the Compass Department of the Admiralty, London, H.M.S.O.