Custom WoodWorkers Estate - Furniture & Miniatures - Hybrid Auction & Estate Sale!
Lot 14:
Description
This is a liquid-damped naval bulkhead or binnacle compass manufactured for the U.S. Navy Bureau of Ships in 1943. The instrument features a brass or bronze housing with a dark patinated finish and is equipped with two adjustable gray-painted iron compensating spheres, known as quadrantal correctors, mounted on threaded rods for magnetic adjustment. A vertical-reading compass card is visible through a glass viewing aperture, showing cardinal points and degree markings including N, 33, 30, and W. The unit is designed for mounting on a ship bulkhead or bridge and features a felt-lined circular base.
An engraved brass identification plate on the side of the housing is inscribed:
U.S. NAVY – BUREAU OF SHIPS
MOUNTED – COMPASS
MODEL 1 SERIAL NO. 32343 – 1943
MARK 0 CONT. NXS-82-83
C. G. CONN, LTD.
ELKHART, INDIANA
A paper label is affixed to the front housing above the dial window with the following text:
THIS COMPASS HAS NOT BEEN
ADJUSTED.
USE OTHER SIDE FOR RECORDING
DEVIATIONS.
Total Length: 5.5 inches
Base Diameter: 3.5 inches.
Condition report:
The housing shows surface wear, light scratching, and areas of finish loss consistent with age and maritime service. The brass has developed a varied dark patina. The glass viewing window is intact and clear. The internal compass card appears to float freely within its damping fluid. Both compensating spheres and their threaded adjustment nuts remain functional and intact. The paper deviation label is yellowed with age and shows minor staining, though all text remains fully legible. The green felt lining on the base is heavily worn and has accumulated lint.
Share this lot:
