A Francis Barker Compass Clinometer, made in England c.1980 (it is featured in the 1982 Barker Catalogue). This design was first made by Barker in the 1890's, and was known as the 'Improved Sight or Surveying Compass and Clinometer'. This type of instrument was produced from the 1890's until the 1930's when it was discontinued. Barker revived the design in the 1980's as part of an attempt to expand their product range. Like most Barker instruments it is unsigned, and would have been supplied direct to the retail trade - with many retailers then adding their own details to the case or compass card.
This instrument has a 'handle' with integral sighting vanes used for both the compass and clinometer functions, an aluminium compass card, jewelled pivot, transit lock, and black painted brass case. It comes complete with its original fitted leather case
Further information about Barker Clinometers can be found at trademarklondon.com on p.147 of the online PDF edition of Paul Crespel's book Trade Mark London, and at compassmuseum.com.
Francis Barker & Son: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti & Zambra, J. Lizars, C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker & Son (1932). After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now owned by Pyser Optics of Edenbridge in Kent. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.
Condition:
In excellent, near mint condition, full working order and finds North well. The clinometer is in full working order. The original blackened finish of the case is in excellent condition. The glass, sights, needle, and compass/clinometer card are in excellent condition. The leather case is in very good condition.
Dimensions : 75mm x 80mm x 15mm
(Leather case: 90mm x 115mm)
