A Georgian mahogany cased surveyors pocket compass, dating from around 1820. This type of wooden cased compass was produced from the end of the 18th century to the early 19th century. This example has an ornate Georgian style of compass card design. It also has a distinctive Georgian compass needle. The hand-made triangular hinges and '7' shaped clasps are typical of the early Georgian period. The compass is in full working order and finds North well. With a paper card, flat needle, and brass pivot. It also has a transit lock, operated by a small pin and lever when the lid is closed. This compass is rather unusual in that the lid has a recess that would originally have held a small circular brass protractor. It also has a spirit level set into the edge of the wooden case, and a brass plate with keyhole shaped cut-outs attached to the outer edge of the case. These additional features are not often seen in this type of pocket compass and suggest that it would have been used by a surveyor, possibly for mining or road building.
Condition:
In very good condition, and full working order, with just the normal signs of age and use. It points strongly to North. The wooden case is in very good condition, with a few marks. The original glass is in very good condition. The paper compass card and blued needle are in very good condition. The transit lock is working well, locking the needle when the lid is closed. The lid closes well with strong hinges and is secured by twin '7' shaped clasps. The spirit level is undamaged and working well.
Dimensions: 70mm x 65mm x 20mm
