Antique mahogany cased needle pocket compass with twin sight vanes

This unusual compass with foldable sight vanes is set in a very attractive mahogany case, and fastened by twin brass clasps. The English cross bar needle pivots on a gemstone bearing above the silvered dial with an upper 360 degree chapter ring under a clean, chip free glass crystal. Dating to the latter part of the 19th century, like many wood cased compasses of the period it is unsigned, but it is a quality piece so likely to have been made by one of the major makers of the time, probably Francis Barker.

In working order with a lid activated transit lock, this compass is in very good condition as can be seen by the photos. A less common design for wood cased pocket compass, it weighs 160 grams and measures 80mm square by 21mm deep. Please study the photos as they are part of the description, and I will be happy to answer any questions if I can.

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