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3.40 AMERICAN TELLTALE COMPASS.
Rare, unusually large American ship
captain's cabin compass made by "Hagger & Brother, Baltimore" as
engraved on the paper maker's label surrounding the pivot. This
especially large and handsome telltale compass from the age of sail
is made entirely of brass, with glazed top and bottom. The large dry
card is beautifully hand painted on mica! and is supported by a large
brass pivot with an agate cap. On the reverse of the card, running
through the pivot, is a large bar magnet with one end stamped "N".
The compass rose is marked in points of the compass down to 1/4
points with the cardinal and intercardinal points identified. North
is designated by a very fancy fleur-de-lis. The working side of the
compass has a large turned brass support pivot in the center of the
thick glass on which the compass card "floats." This feature enabled
the captain to read the compass while it was suspended from the
ship's overhead above him. To these ends the compass is complete with
its original brass gimbal and U-shaped mounting bracket which allow
it to function in a seaway. The entire assembly measures 12 1/4
inches across with the compass body itself measuring 8 1/2 inches in
diameter and 5 inches thick. Suspended, the entire configuration
extends 7 1/2 inches down from the overhead. Outstanding, fully
functional condition with a bright polish to all brass surfaces. A
real rarity among shipboard compasses in this size and
condition! 2395
John W. Hagger was born in Massachusetts in 1805 and died in Baltimore in 1858. The Baltimore Directories list Hagger & Brother as mathematical instrument makers form 1842 to 1859. The 1850 Federal Census in Baltimore records John W. Hagger of Massachusetts, 44 years old and William G. Hagger of Massachusetts, 50 years old. The school of Civil Engineering at Cornell University in New York has a surveyor's vernier compass in its collection marked "Hagger & Bro." (Charles E. Smart, "The Makers of Surveying Instruments in America Since 1700," 1962, Regal Art Press, Troy, New York.)
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3.71 IDENTIFIED DECORATED QUADRANT. Very scarce and highly desirable late 18th century mariner's quadrant with decoratively engraved index arm. This large, early navigational instrument features limbs of rich ebony, brass furniture and ivory scales. Of particular note and interest is the fact that the large index arm of this early instrument is decoratively engraved for half of its length with crossed flags, drums and floral motifs. Furthermore, it is engraved with its Captain owner's name "Edw Smith Rotherhith Wall" in decorative script on the top of the index arm in front of the horizon mirror! This lovely instrument has a large scale calibrated from 0 - 95+ degrees on the inlaid ivory arc over which the index arm with vernier pass. The vernier is of the early type with zero-centered scale and simple thumb screw stop indicative of 1780's construction. This fine instrument is complete with brass fore peep with pivoting shutter, early form backsight, both horizon mirrors and index mirror, and full set of interchangeable filters. The reverse is complete with all original hardware, three knurled support "feet" and inlaid ivory notepad. This instrument even retains its original ivory tipped note pencil held in the cross strut! The index arm itself measures just over 18 inches in length and the frame measures 14 1/2 inches wide on the large arc. It is in an outstanding state of original preservation. Remarkably, the brass surfaces retain a substantial portion of their original lacquer -- very unusual for a marine instrument of this vintage! A true museum piece.3195
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3.43 BOXED COMPASS. Good early 1900's American boxed compass made by the Wilcox Crittendon Company of Connecticut. This high quality steering compass has four bar magnets supporting the composition card on a jeweled pivot. The card is marked with the points of the compass down to 1/4 point and in degrees by 2 degree increments. The cardinal and intercardinal points are identified, with the North point being designated by a conjoined "WC." The all bronze compass is slung in its bronze gimbal and housed in its sturdy machine dove-tailed mahogany box with lid. Two brass hooks hold the lid securely in place. The lid still retains the maker's label reading, "Wilcox, Crittendon & Co., Inc. Middletown, Conn., U.S.A. May 20 1936." The compass measures 4 inches in diameter. The box measures just under 6 inches square by 4 1/4 inches high with the lid. Outstanding, fully functional condition. 395
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3.42 U.S. NAVY SEXTANT WITH MUSEUM
PROVENANCE. Genuine World War II
vintage U.S. Navy Bureau of Navigation Mark II sextant made by "David
White Co. Milwaukee, Wis. N4034-1941" as engraved on the index arm.
This superb example is complete and in the finest condition we have
ever seen. The all brass frame in its original black finish has a
scale calibrated from -5 to 145 degrees. The index arm has a pinch
stop with endless tangent screw and a micrometer readout. It affords
an accuracy of 1/10th of a minute, or effectively 6 arc seconds. This
sextant is complete with both index and horizon mirrors in perfect
condition and both adjustable polarizing filters. The back is
equipped with three pedestal "feet" and a shaped mahogany handle. The
wooden case is complete with its single focusing telescopic sight,
two spare mirrors, brass adjusting wrench and even a screwdriver! The
label of the U.S. Naval Observatory with matching serial number
"4034" is in the lid. It is dated 1/11/1943 and is signed by the Navy
inspector. The fine mahogany box has fancy brass corners and all
brass hardware including lock, carrying handle, hook closures, piano
hinge and the oval brass maker's label of David White. It also bears
a large nickel plate engraved "N4034." The sextant measures 8 1/2
inches long on the index arm and 9 1/2 inches wide on the arc. The
box measures 11 1/4 inches square by 6 inches high. Exceptionally
fine condition throughout. 
Provenance: Recently deaccessioned from a very well known maritime museum. Inasmuch as the museum wishes to maintain its anonymity publicly, the ultimate purchaser will be given full provenance upon the sale.
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3.39 SKYLIGHT BINNACLE. Exceptional 3rd quarter of the 19th
century American yacht binnacle. This especially handsome marine
navigational instrument features a very rare mushroom
type skylight hood fitted with thick beveled glass panels mounted
into heavy brass frames on four sides for optimal viewing! The solid
bronze liquid compass contains a pristine composition card marked in
points and degrees. It is divided down to 1/4 points of the compass
rose with the cardinal and intercardinal points identified and a
conjoined "WO" marking North. It is further marked to single degrees
on the periphery of the card. Assuring accuracy, it contains not one
but four bar magnets mounted in parallel! The compass is
mounted in its matching bronze gimbal which keeps it level in a
seaway. The binnacle body is lovely yellow brass in a high polish
with a flanged base of a heavy cast brass containing 6 holes for
mounting. The removable hood has small air vents surrounding the
compass with a second set of vents around its top. These upper vents
are concealed by the press-fit top cover with round finial. This
binnacle stands 14 1/2 inches tall by 10 inches in diameter at the
base. The compass itself is 6 1/4 inches in diameter and is in
perfect functional condition! Overall this binnacle is in
outstanding condition, exhibiting age and use, but nevertheless,
beautifully preserved. A genuine 1800's yacht binnacle!
Note: Mahogany display base shown here is not included, but may be purchased as an option at additional price.
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3.33 TELLTALE COMPASS. Rare, totally original first half of the 19th century
sailing ship captain's cabin compass. This exceptional example is all
brass with the engraved paper card signed around the center "John
Campbell, 7 South Castle Street, Liverpool." The North point is
designated by a fancy fleur-de-lis with the cardinal and
intercardinal points identified. The pivot has an agate cap and the
card is divided to 1/4 points of the compass with single degrees on
the periphery. The all brass glazed housing is slung in its original
gimbal which is suspended in a magnificent cast brass mounting
bracket with floral designs! In use, this compass would have hung
from the overhead in the captain's quarters allowing him to monitor
the ship's heading from his bunk or desk -- hence the name "tell
tale." Outstanding original condition with a fine, rich patina.
Definitely the finest example of its type we have ever seen. The
compass card is 6 1/4 inches in diameter. The compass housing is 7
1/2 inches in diameter. The overall width of this presentation is 10
inches. 2495
John Campbell was listed as a chronometer and nautical instrument maker at 17 Warren Street in Liverpool from 1845 - 1855. (Gloria Clifton, "Dictionary of British Scientific Instruments Makers 1550-1851".)
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3.34 AMERICAN WOOD BOWL COMPASS.
Genuine, early 2nd quarter of the
19th century American compass made by the noted compass maker "Robert
Merrill, New York." as signed around the central pivot. The nicely
engraved dry card is divided to 1/2 points of the compass, with the
cardinal and intercardinal points identified and North marked by an
elaborate fleur-de-lis. The central brass pivot has an agate cap.
Indicative of its early origin this compass has a decorated East
point, a traditional holdover in early compass making since the
Crusaders traveled East during the Middle Ages. Even more remarkable,
the compass housing is of turned wood! The
compass card measures 6 inches in diameter and is housed in its
original green-painted bowl with glazed cover slung in gimbals within
the hand-dovetailed pine box measuring 10 inches square and 7 inches
high. It appears that the box originally had a hinged lid. Overall
condition is excellent. The compass is functional and it gimbals
properly. A very nice example of a scarce American wooden bowl
compass by the most famous American compass maker of the 19th
century. Given the wooden bowl construction and the decorated East
point on the card, this compass most certainly dates from the
beginning of Merrill's career, circa 1835. 995
Robert Merrill was born in Newburyport, Massachusetts on April 19, 1804. He was first listed as a "mathematical instrument" maker in the New York City directory of 1835-1836 with a partner, William Davis. Shortly thereafter, in 1838 Merrill struck out on his own as a compass maker at the address 141 Maiden Lane. In 1865 Merrill took his sons into the business. He died in 1876. (Charles Smart, "The Makers of Surveying Instruments in America Since 1700," 1962, Regal Art Press, New York.)
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3.32 EARLY DEPTH SOUNDER.
Second half 19th century English
patent depth sounder signed on the oval brass maker's plaque
"BASSNETT'S PAT. SOLE MANUFACTURERS LIVERPOOL." Incredibly, this
antique ocean depth finding device appears to be totally original and
in unused condition! It is complete with all components in its
brown-painted pine box stenciled on the top "BASSNETT'S PATENT
SOUNDER MADE BY J. BASSNETT LIVERPOOL." The mechanism consists of a
of a brass cylinder with lifting eye on the top and a knurled brass
valve on the bottom. The side is stamped "10792" near the eye. The
interior is fitted with a heavy glass tube, closed on one end and
calibrated in "atmospheres" from 5 through 100 logarithmically. The
calibrations are hand-etched on the glass and the scale is marked
"ATMO." In practice, the assembly was lowered into the water with a
lead weight until it reached the bottom. Water pressure moved the
internal plunger within the tube until equilibrium was met. When
retrieved, the position of the plunger within the glass tube
indicated the depth in atmospheres. A simple conversion showed the
depth in fathoms. This apparatus is complete with a spare tube and 2
spare rubber gaskets. The pine box bears 4 paper labels (worn) and
has the serial number "01792" written in three places. It measures 29
1/2 inches long, 4 1/2 inches wide and 2 1/2 inches thick. The
instrument itself measures 28 inches long and is 1 1/4 inch in
diameter. Also included is an original paper entitled "Important To
Users of Sounding Machines" which illustrates and identifies the
entire apparatus including sounder, winch, sinker and fair lead.
495
James Bassnett worked as an optician, mathematical instrument maker, clock maker and chronometer maker in Liverpool from 1829-1847. Another Bassnett, William, perhaps a relative, is also listed as a chronometer maker in Liverpool circa 1843. (Gloria Clifton, "Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851," 1995, The National Maritime Museum, London, England).
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3.26 TAFFRAIL LOG SET. Fully complete, fourth quarter 19th century American taffrail log set by "John Bliss & Co" as marked on the fired porcelain dial. The dial bears 4 patent dates, the latest being July 21, 1885. It has three mechanical indicators registering 1/8, single, and tens of nautical miles respectively, from 0-100 miles. This all brass "nautical odometer" is fitted with a glazed zinc cover over the register. The cover is embossed "Bliss Taffrail Log" on one side and " Bliss. New York, U.S.A." on the other. The log features a pivoting bail bracket which retains a portion of the original hemp suspension line spliced onto its eyelet. The rotator end is equipped with a brass hook which was secured to the long line trailing the rotator or "fish." The 4-bladed brass rotator is also marked "John Bliss & Co." and is attached to approximately 50 fathoms of 1/4 inch cotton line in perfect, unused condition! As shown, the log itself measures 10 1/2 inches long and 3 inches wide. The end of the log is serial numbered "250." It is in excellent condition with a highly polished lacquered finish. A well preserved example of this early type of log, the majority of which were corroded by sea water. 795
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3.25 BOAT BINNACLE. Truly rare, genuine 19th century ship's life boat
binnacle from a British ship. This fine example of such a
navigational instrument dating from the late 1800's has a liquid-type
compass with the card signed "A. Cope, Southampton." The compass, now
dry with age, is marked in points, subdivided to 1/4th points, with
the cardinal and intercardinal points identified and North marked by
an ornate fleur-de-lis design. The heavy all brass compass is slung
in gimbals and mounted within its brass binnacle housing with glazed
oval viewing port and substantial carrying ring at the top. For night
viewing the binnacle is equipped with its oil burning side lamp with
original burner and charming castellated chimney. It stands 12 inches
high, 10 inches wide at the widest and 9 1/4 inches in diameter on
the heavy cast brass base. This binnacle is in an amazing state of
original preservation considering its age. It has a deep statuary
bronze patina and exhibits signs of use but no abuse. Fully
functional. It is rare to find an 1800's vintage binnacle of this
type in original condition.
1200
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3.10 COMPASS. World War I vintage American pocket surveyor's compass made for the Army Engineers by the Herschede Clock Co. as engraved on the silvered brass dial, "U.S. ENGINEER DEPT. HERSCHEDE 1918" This fine quality marching compass has a double-ended needle with a jeweled brass pivot. The raised chapter is finely marked in single degrees on the periphery. The major points of the compass, with North designated by a fleur-de-lis, are on the bottom. A brass retaining ring holds in the glazed cover. This diptych compass is of lovely mahogany with all brass fittings including a piano hinge and sliding case lock. It is also equipped with a caging device which engages the needle, securing it into position when the cover is closed. Slightly over 3 inches square by 1 inch thick. Excellent original condition. 250
The Herschede Clock Co. was founded by Frank Herschede, who apprenticed to Charles Cook as a watchmaker in 1873 at the age of 16. In 1877 Herschede opened his own shop with an emphasis on fine jewelry and time pieces. By 1885 he noted the success of Walter H. Durfee, of grandfather clock fame, who imported English tall case clocks. Herschede began by importing Elliot movements himself and putting them into cases that were popular in the U.S. In 1902 he began to produce his own tubes and install them in Herschede clocks. His son Walter joined the company that year and they incorporated as the Herschede Hall Clock Company. The company's reputation grew and by 1909 they decided to make their own movements. Electric clocks were introduced into the line in 1926 and by 1929 their sales had reached an all time high. But the onset of the Great Depression caused business began to falter. The company continued to struggle for market share during for the next 30 years, but never regained the popularity it enjoyed during the early part of the century.
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3.09 BINNACLE. Full size American ship's pilot house binnacle
compass made by "KELVIN & WILFRED O. WHITE CO. NAUTICAL
INSTRUMENTS, Adjusters of Ship Compasses, Boston 5550 New York" as
embossed on the brass maker's label affixed to the front. This very
handsome free-standing navigational instrument is in a superb state
of preservation, being fully complete and functional in all respects.
The lovely all brass compass is stamped on the peripheral ring
"Kelvin & White Boston F1775" with a matching number impressed
into the gimbal ring. The white composition compass card has a fancy
"winged" North point and is marked in single degrees and points down
to 1/4th points. The card itself is signed "Kelvin & Wilfred O.
White Co., Boston & New York, U.S.A." This binnacle has a solid
mahogany body with a domed brass hood, heavy cast brass skylight
cover, Flinder's bar tube with cover and both quadrantial spheres
(Navigator's balls) supported on heavy cast brass arms. A sliding
door on the back of the hood allows for sighting with a bearing
circle or for taking an azimuth. The bottom of the compass is
electrically illuminated from within the binnacle, producing a most
appealing visual effect. The intensity of the illumination is
mechanically modulated by means of a small brass lever protruding
from the font. Also on the front is the a pendulum inclinometer
signed "Lionel Corporation New York, U.S.A." which indicates the
ship's heel port and starboard up to 40 degrees. The hinged access
door on the front of the binnacle allows access to the fore and aft
magnet compartment within, and even retains its original lock and
key! This fine large ship's binnacle measures 51 inches tall, 32
inches wide at the widest, 17 inches square at the base and 18 inches
deep overall. It is in simply OUTSTANDING
condition in all respects! A fine example of an American ship's
binnacle from the World War I era, and the first we have offered on
this website in our 8 years.
Kelvin & Wilfred O. White Co. was organized in Boston in 1919 by Wilfred White of Australia, who was apprenticed to the famous Lord Kelvin of Glasgow, Scotland in 1900. Moving to Boston in 1902 White began work as a compass adjuster under his own name in 1907. During World War I he manufactured compasses and in 1919 organized the firm with a branch in New York City. Ultimately the British interest in the firm was sold in 1950. (M.V. Brewington, "The Peabody Museum Collection of Navigating Instruments," 1963, Peabody Museum, Salem, Massachusetts).
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3.04 BACK STAFF. Rare, first half of the 18th century mariner's
backstaff or Davis Quadrant probably of English manufacture. This
particularly handsome example of an early sun sighting instrument is
constructed with limbs of rosewood supporting scales engraved on
boxwood arcs. The two concentric arcs are centered on the horizon
vane and are graduated in degrees comprising a total angle of 90,
hence the name Davis "Quadrant." According to Captain Davis' design,
put forth in 1590, the small arc is made of a smaller radius than the
large arc to lessen the size of the instrument. It is divided in
single degrees from 0-65 with 5 degree divisions on the periphery to
account for the sun's semidiameter geometrically. The large arc has a
scale calibrated in 5 arc minute increments. Further, it has a
transverse scale which allows a reading down to one arc minute. The
scale runs from 0 to 25 degrees and from 65-90, providing a readout
in either altitude or zenith distance. Adding to its beauty and
durability the frame is inlaid with ivory "diamonds" at the
attachment points and bears an inlaid ivory maker's plate (blank) in
the longest member. This lovely instrument has the typical early
decorative "crook" on the large arc which served to provide the
observer with a firm grip while sighting. It is also decorated with a
large number of repetitive sunburst patterns on the edges of the
arcs. The finely fashioned original boxwood horizon vane is decorated
with two fleur-de-lis adjacent to the horizon slit and is impressed
with the number "22." The shadow and sighting vanes are perfect
boxwood replacements faithfully replicated from originals. 25 1/4
inches long by 14 1/2 inches wide. A genuine museum
piece.
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3.01 WATCH TIMER. Genuine, 2nd half of the 19th century ship's "watch glass." This sand timer is so named because it was used to record the duration of the ship's personnel watch in 30 minute intervals. It is constructed entirely out of turned mahogany with a one-piece hand-blown vial filled with reddish-brown sand. Telling of its age, one end is fitted with a cloth plug whereby the orifice in the vial was adjusted and the sand filled. Thereafter it was sealed. This fine old example stands 6 1/2 inches tall and measures 3 1/2 inches in diameter. Excellent original condition. 695
In the early days of sail ship's personnel stood watch on deck for a period of 4 hours marked by 8 half hour intervals. Before the advent of reliable mechanical timekeepers, it was the duty of the boatswain mate of the watch or the helmsman to monitor the ship's "watch glass" and announce each of its half hour passages with a successive stroke of the helm bell, one through 8. To this day "ship's bell" clocks mimic this ancient seafaring tradition.
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3.97 IMPORTANT COMPASS. Genuine Federal period American compass made by
Samuel Emery of Salem, Massachusetts as marked around the center,
"-o- S. EMERY SALEM. -o-" The beautifully engraved dry card is
divided to single points of the compass, with the cardinal and
intercardinal points identified and North marked by an elaborate
fleur-de-lis. Under the fleur-de-lis is the engraver's signature
"Callender, S.P". The central brass pivot has an agate cap.
Indicative of its early origin this compass has a decorated East
point, a traditional holdover in early compass making since the
Crusaders traveled East during the Middle Ages. The compass card
measures 6 1/2 inches in diameter and is housed in its original brass
bowl with glazed cover slung in gimbals within its original simple
pine box measuring 10 1/4 inches square and 7 inches high. Condition
is generally good. The compass is functional. The brass bowl shows
its age with a deep green verdigris with mottled surfaces and there
are numerous small age checks in the glazing putty. The box is
generally sound, missing its lid. This is a very nice example of an
early compass by a noted American maker, circa 1810. 1495
According to M.V. Brewington in his monumental work "The Peabody Museum Collection of Navigating Instruments," 1963, Samuel Emery was born in Newbury, Massachusetts in 1787. He began his business in Salem, Massachusetts in 1808 at 12 Water Street and died at the venerable age of 95. Emery left his nephew by marriage, John Kehew (a noted instrument maker in his own right), most of his estate. Brewington describes Emery as "Salem's foremost instrument maker." The compass card available here is the original of an identical card that graces the title page of the book.
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3.90 EARLY 18th CENTURY SHIP'S WATCH
TIMER. Very, very rare mid-18th
century or earlier ship's sand timer of approximately 30 minutes
duration. This massive half hour glass is likely American with
concentrically-turned oak ends, one of which is carved with the
initials "J H". The ends are supported by 5 hand-carved maple
columns. Curiously one of these is flat, while the others are round
in cross-section. This gives rise to speculation that the "half
column" was done for recognition purposes -- indicating to the user
"1/2 hour." The columns encase the two old blown greenish glass vials
containing reddish-orange sand, connected in the center and bound in
the traditional manner. This early timer stands 8 inches tall and
over 4 inches in diameter. It is in an incredible state of original
preservation for its age, with a lovely, deep patina to all surfaces.
A genuine ship's timer from the first half of the 1700's. Truly a
museum piece of the first order!
The exact origins of the sand timer are unclear, although it is generally attributed to the Arab world. From ancient times the passage of water was used as a measurement of time. As a follow-on, the "fluid dynamics" of flowing sand were seen to be similar. "By the Middle Ages the the sand-glass came into its own and, fragile though it was, this was the first clock which the men who made the great voyages of discovery took with them." (Jean Randier, "Nautical Antiques for the Collector, 1977, Doubleday & Co., New York, page 96). "Dating old sand glasses can be difficult, but the color or tint of the bulbs is a help. The glass was greenish up to about 1700. During the 18th century it was darker; then in the 19th century it gradually acquired the transparency of crystal. There were also variations in the actual sand which, prior to about 1720, was reddish or orange-red in color. After about 1720, white or green sand was increasingly used." (Alan Major, "Marine Antiques," 1981, A.S. Barnes & Co., New York, pages 178-179.)
In the early days of sail ship's personnel stood watch on deck for a period of 4 hours marked by 8 half hour intervals. Before the advent of reliable mechanical timekeepers, it was the duty of the boatswains mate of the watch or the helmsman to monitor the ship's "watch glass" and announce each of its half hour passages with a successive stroke of the helm bell, one through 8. To this day "ship's bell" clocks mimic this ancient seafaring tradition.
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3.89 EARLY AMERICAN BINNACLE.
Very scarce mid-19th century or
earlier ship's binnacle made by the famous Boston maker who was the
grandson of Paul Revere. The beautifully engraved dry compass card is
signed around the center, "F. W. Lincoln Jr. & Co. * Boston,
Mass. *" It has a brass agate pivot and shows the cardinal and
intercardinal points of the compass divided down to 1/4 points, with
an elaborate fleur-de-lis at the North. The weighted and gimbaled
brass bowl is housed in its original mahogany binnacle of hand
dove-tailed construction with glazed and hinged slant front lid with
hook and eye closure. This early binnacle retains both of its
original brass side lights with fonts and burners. Telling of its
age, the burners are the early "pick wick" type used before the
advent of the wick advance knob during the time of the Civil War.
This fine example of an early wooden binnacle measures 11 1/2 inches
tall, 15 1/2 inches wide and 10 inches deep. The compass measures 5
1/2 inches in diameter. Outstanding original condition throughout.
Only the left castellated top of the burner is missing. The exterior
wood and brass surfaces remain untouched through over a century and a
half! The compass is pristine.
Frederick W. Lincoln was born in Boston in 1817, grandson of Paul Revere. He apprenticed to the famous early American nautical instrument maker, Gedney King in 1830 and set up his own business in 1839. In 1858 one of Lincoln's apprentices, Charles Hutchinson, was made a partner and the firm name became Frederick W. Lincoln, Jr. & Co. Lincoln was mayor of Boston during the Civil War. Hutchinson bought out the firm in 1883 and Lincoln died in 1898.
A nearly identical example, with compass signed "F.W. Lincoln Jr. & Co. Boston, Mass.", catalog number M2459, dated circa 1860, is held in the collection of the prestigious Peabody Museum, Salem, Massachusetts. The museum example is somewhat later as evidenced by the later style rounded lamp tops vs. the early form castellated type offered here.
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3.82 IMPORTANT IDENTIFIED EBONY SEXTANT.
Extremely rare late 18th or very
early 19th century ebony and brass sextant made by
the famous English nautical instrument makers "Spencer, Browning
& Rust, London" as engraved on the ivory maker's label. It was
sold by the American instrument maker and nautical chandler, "Gedney
King, Boston" to the famous American ship Captain Larkin Turner. This
rare instrument is state-of-the-art for its time, incorporating many
innovative features for a wooden frame instrument. It has full set of
index and horizon filters and a braced brass index arm with ivory
vernier. The inlaid ivory scale is marked in 20 arc minute increments
from 0 to 137 degrees and is signed in script "SBR" indicating it was
calibrated on the firm's dividing engine. The tangential fine adjust
knob in concert with the vernier allows a reading to an accuracy of
30 arc seconds. This instrument has a sculpted rosewood handle and is
equipped with an height adjustable eyepiece with pivoting peep, which
accepts interchangeable sighting tubes. Both interchangeable tubes
are present in the original large hand-made "keystone" oak box with
original lock, fancy brass escutcheon and hook and eye closures.
Within the lid is the trade label of Gedney King, Boston. The
instrument itself measures one foot high on the index arm with the
same dimension across the large arc. The early engraved Gedney King
trade label is a thing of beauty, and represents a rare form of early
American advertising which is extremely valuable in its own right.
The instrument and its box are in a remarkable state of original, as
found, preservation. They have not been cleaned, modified, or
repaired in any way and are in the same state as manufactured over
200 years ago! The sextant does show good signs of its years of being
in a marine environment, exhibiting rich verdigris and patina to all
surfaces. In the box is a small envelope which reads "The "Tag" and
the Gift Card of Capt.n Larkin Turner's Sextant." Inside it are two
original old hand-penned documents. The first is a small stiff label
reading "Capt L. Turner". The second reads "By Capt L. Turner
purchased of G. King in the year 1804 & Presented by him to
T.L.T. July 1839." Another larger document reads "Observations of
Capt. Larkin Turner" dated "Sept 21, 1832." This is an incredibly
rare early navigational instrument by famous makers with documented
provenance from a famous American sea captain! A true museum piece!
Capt. Larkin Turner
was an illustration of the force of character. Born in Grafton,
Massachusetts in 1781, at the age of fourteen he was "put out" to
learn the trade of shoemaker. Soon however he conceived the idea of
entering into something more active. His ardent temperament suggested
to him the sea. His uncle, John Drury, was in the practice of
medicine at Marblehead, Massachusetts, so he migrated there. At the
age of sixteen he began his new career as a seaman with his uncle's
support. After passing through all the grades of an arduous seafaring
apprenticeship he gained his first command of a vessel from the
counting house of the merchants, William Gray, Esq., at the tender
age of 22.
A strict disciplinarian, severe on occasion,
he was a cautious manager on shipboard, but generally kind to his
crews, treating them with parental anxiety. During his 40 years at
sea, there were few parts of the world he did not navigate,
experiencing fewer accidents than would normally be expected.
After an eventful life as a sailor, he
retired in 1832 to the town of Lexington, Massachusetts. His modest
and gentlemanly bearing gained him friends, and in the years 1836 and
1837 he was twice sent to the Massachusetts Legislature to represent
his adopted town of Charlestown. He died in 1854. (Recounted by
Thomas Larkin Turner, son, circa 1850. Abstracted from the original
journals now in the library collection of Mystic Seaport, Mystic,
Connecticut).
Those journals indicate that Captain Turner
served on the following vessels, for a minimum duration of the dates
shown:
Ship CALUMET, January 31,
1804 - August 30, 1805
Ship PRINT, April 19 -
August 9, 1806
Ship PACTOTUS, March 15 -
August 21, 1807
Sloop NABBY, September 10,
1810 - November 28, 1811
Brig TRIM, August 20 -
September 24, 1819
Brig PALESTINE, February
3 - November 20, 1832
Ship HENRY, October 13 -
November 4, 1834
M.V. Brewington in "The Peabody Museum Collection of Navigating Instruments," Peabody Museum, Salem, Massachusetts, 1963, notes that "The firm, Spencer Browning & Rust, first appear in the London Directories between 1780 and 1784 at 327 High Street, Wapping, London. Clay and Court in the History of the Telescope state the firm was at 123 Wapping in 1791, but if so, it was back at 327 High Street in 1797 according to the London Directory of that year. In 1798 they moved to 66 High Street Wapping, and remained there until 1840.
In the same reference, Gedney King is reported as being born in Salem in 1777. He was apprenticed to his uncle Benjamin of Salem. By 1800, he was an instrument maker first on Fore Street and in 1805 at 10 North Row, Fish Street, Boston. In 1832 the firm name changed to Gedney King & Son, 7 Broad Street, Boston.
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3.64 CASED EBONY SEXTANT. Rare, first quarter of the 19th century mariner's ebony sextant by one of England's foremost nautical instrument makers "Mefser (sic) London" as marked on the inlaid ivory maker's label on the cross limb. This important sextant is state-of-the-art for its time, incorporating many innovative features for a wooden frame instrument. It has full set of index and horizon filters and a braced brass index arm with ivory vernier. The inlaid ivory scale is marked in 20 arc minute increments from 0 to 135 degrees. The tangential fine adjust knob in concert with the vernier allows a reading to an accuracy of 30 arc seconds. This instrument has a sculpted rosewood handle and is equipped with an height adjustable eyepiece with pivoting peep, which accepts interchangeable sighting tubes. The two magnifying tubes are present with the only the simple peep tube missing. This instrument is housed in its original fitted keystone oak box with original lock and hook and eye closure. The instrument itself measures exactly one foot high on the index arm and 11 3/4 inches wide on the large arc. The box measures 13 1/4 inches high by just under 14 inches wide. The lid bears the original old decorative trade label of "Francis M. Moore Practical Chronometer & Watchmaker, Adjuster of the Compasses of Iron Ships 23, Eden Quay, Dublin, 116 High Street, Belfast; Barometers & Telescopes, Sextants, Compasses, Binnacles, Compasses & Charts..." Overall the entire presentation is in very good, as found condition. There are some insignificant age cracks in the ebony frame and 2 age splits in the lid of the box. Original accessories include screw-on eyepiece sun filter and brass adjusting wrench. Ebony sextants are rare.1595
Benjamin Messer began business as a mathematical instrument maker, optician, and ship chandler at 75 Wapping, London in 1789. He moved to 155 Minories, London in 1805 where he continued his manufactory until 1827. He is known to have sold octants. Among his apprentices was John Crichton, who went on to become a famous maker in his own right. (Gloria Clifton, "Dictionary of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851.")
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3.57 THERMOMETER. Lovely late 19th century wall hanging thermometer with a milk glass scale. This functional instrument reads in degrees Fahrenheit with a large, bold scale hand painted onto the milk glass which is bordered by a clear beveled edge. The graduations are in two degree increments from -28 to 120. The huge bulb is filled with blue alcohol making the entire presentation very colorful and at the same time easy to read. The scale measures nearly one foot tall and 2 1/2 inches wide and is complete with its original small brass suspension loop at the top. 199
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3.56 RARE DOUBLE FRAME SEXTANT. Spectacular, early 19th C.
pillar frame mariner's sextant made by the inventor. This lovely
brass instrument has an index arm measuring 10 inches in length. The
intricate double frame has platinum scales and is signed below
the large arc "Troughton, London." On the vertical limb above the
scale is the engraved serial number "1400" with the word "Platina"
engraved just below on the main arc. Above the serial number limb is
engraved an old fashioned anchor. Above this on the cross brace are
the initials "T.L." and the Serial "No. 91." The large arc is
calibrated up to 150 degrees divided to 20 arc minutes. The finely
graduated vernier scale allows for a reading to an accuracy of 10 arc
seconds and the delicate vernier magnifier mounted on pivoting swing
arm aids in observing these precise readings. This instrument, with
early form rosewood handle, is complete and in excellent condition,
having been cleaned and fully restored with all original components!
It is fitted into a fine large hand dovetailed mahogany box with
brass hardware, 3 sighting tubes and sun filter attachment. This is a
remarkable sextant which in our opinion is the most complex and
beautiful of its type ever produced. Its construction speaks of
untold man hours in careful fabrication with the tiniest of
components melded together to form a functional work of engineering
artistry. This makes an exceptional display piece enchanced by its
bright brass finish and engraved anchor indicative of sea service. A
true museum piece!
Edward Troughton (1755-1826) invented the double or "pillar frame" sextant in 1788, so named because it consisted of 2 thin sheet brass frames braced together with brass pillars to form a lightweight and rigid platform on which to construct a hand-held instrument for taking celestial observations. While the double frame proved to be effective an 18th century concept -- one which gave Troughton great notoriety as a respected instrument maker -- the complexity and cost of producing such sextants gave way to more simplified designs by the mid 1800's.
In a time line produced by A. Stinson, former Curator of Instruments at the National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, Troughton sextant number "1400" is shown to date circa 1820.
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3.46 CASED QUADRANT. Large second half 1700's mariner's navigational
quadrant of English origin. This exceptional instrument features a
braced frame with limbs of mahogany and inlaid ivory scales with
brass furniture. The large arc is calibrated in single degrees from
minus 5 to 95 degrees subdivided in 20 arc minute units. The long
flat brass index arm swings over the arc with a single thumb screw
stop. The "0" centered ivory vernier reads right to an accuracy of
one arc minute from 0-10 and left from 10-20! This system is telling
of the instrument's age, dating it at or before 1780. (See our
"Captain's Log" article, "Evolution of the Sextant"). It also
exhibits the antiquated "backsight" feature which fell out of favor
on quadrants and octants in the early 1800's. Of great significance
to the appeal and value of this venerable old navigational device is
the fact that the index arm was beautifully hand engraved with floral
motifs. This instrument is complete and original with all three
mirror boxes, back and fore sight peeps, full set of interchangeable
folding filters, blank ivory maker's plate, ivory "note pad," all
brass hardware on the reverse including three brass "feet" and even
the rarely found removable ivory pencil for recording readings!
Condition is outstanding and untouched, noting some green verdigris
around the index mirror and some expected staining to the ivory
surfaces. It is housed in its massive original pine stepped box
bearing the later repairer's label of "CAMERON Chronometer &
Watch Maker 54 South Castle Street Liverpool, All sorts of Nautical
Instruments Repaired & Adjusted" with the lovely British emblem
of a lion and unicorn flanking a crown and crest. The box shows some
signs of professional repair and is in very sound condition with a
nice old antique surface. The instrument itself measures 14 1/2
inches wide and 18 1/4 inches tall, while the box measures 16 by 18
1/2 inches. A very rare example of the melding of art and the science
of navigation in the 18th century.
The Cameron firm of nautical instrument makers began with Alexander Cameron senior in Dundee, Scotland 1818. It is likely this trade label is that of his son, Alexander Junior who succeeded his father at 54 South Castle Street, Liverpool in 1849 as a chronometer and nautical instrument maker. (Clifton, "Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851.")
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3.27 REFLECTING CIRCLE. Extremely rare and very important late 19th century
navigational instrument in the form of a graduated circle. This
exquisitely made reflecting circle is signed on the index arm "Th.
Wegener, Berlin No. 1948" in fancy script. The scale is engraved on
silver through 300 degrees, marked in 10 degree increments and
divided to 10 arc minutes. In turn, the vernier scale is calibrated
to 10 arc minutes divided to an accuracy of 10 arc seconds, providing
a very fine reading. The opposite side of the circle is also
subdivided with identical divisions, but is not marked in 10's of
degrees. A second vernier is provided effectively allowing the
observer to take a second reading, vastly enhancing the capabilities
of such a reflecting instrument over a common sextant or octant. For
reading the verniers, a unique pivoting vernier magnifier with light
diffuser is mounted to a long folding brass arm, allowing the
magnifier to be used in any position around the entire instrument!
This instrument is equipped with an unusually long and narrow index
mirror mounted to the cross arm and a prism mounted on the body as
the horizon mirror. Six sets of pivoting sun/horizon filters are
mounted in front of the prism. Just to the other side is the threaded
adjustable height sight tube holder which accepts one of the three
telescopic sights of varying power. The longest of these telescopic
tubes is a work of art in itself, being equipped with a small
rotating filter with detente on the ocular, which allows the observer
to rapidly change filters in the midst of an observation without
interruption. This tube is internally equipped with 4 tiny cross
hairs and provides a clear, highly magnified image with an adjustable
focus. The reverse of the instrument shows the two lovely sculpted
rosewood handles, the sight tube adjusting knob, the index filter
adjusting knob, and the index arm stop and fine adjustment knobs.
This impressive instrument measures just over 10 inches in diameter
on the circle and just under one foot across overall. It is in
absolutely outstanding state if preservation with virtually 100%
original surfaces in bright brass lacquer and black oxidized finish.
It is totally complete, including three optical tubes, a right angle
prismatic attachment, and even includes the original screw driver,
adjusting wrenches and camel's hair brush! All of this is neatly
fitted into the lovely solid mahogany, dovetailed case with brass
fittings, box lock and key. The box measures 12 by 12 1/2 inches and
is in beautiful condition, retaining its original, unblemished
finish. This certainly is one of the most pristine and important
instruments of its type that we have ever seen.
The advent of the reflecting circle is generally attributed to the English, who by the mid 1700's saw makers like Ramsden, Gregory, Adams, Borda and Mayer innovating and producing such instruments. Initially these instruments were used at sea to find the longitude by the lunar distance method. Oddly, perhaps because of the adverse reaction given to Mayer's reflecting circle by Captain John Campbell in 1758, the reflecting circle never really gained popularity on the English side of the Channel. By the end of the 18th century, with the widespread acceptance of the marine chronometer as a more reliable tool with which to find the longitude, reflecting circles were relegated to use in hydrographic surveying and chart making. It was left to the French and Germans to refine these complex instruments during the 19th century. The ability to measure large angles and the accuracy of averaging several observations were features which found favor on the Continent, despite the circle's inherent size and awkwardness in taking sights.
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19.61 AMERICAN SKYLIGHT BINNACLE. Most handsome early yacht
binnacle made by "John E. Hand & Son Co., Nautical Instruments,
Philadelphia, Baltimore, Haddenfield, U.S.A. S X 5, 6220," as
embossed and stamped on the brass maker's tag. This binnacle is also
marked in several other places. The top edge is stamped with the Hand
logo of a palm holding a compass rose and reads, "John E. Hand &
Sons Co. Phila - Balto. Pat Jan-11-27." The rim of the compass and
the gimbal ring are both stamped "6220." The composition compass card
with large float is marked with a fleur-de-lis at the North point and
signed "Hand, Philadelphia, U.S.A." It is finely divided in
traditional compass points down to 1/4 point with the cardinal,
intercardinal and sub-points identified. The periphery of the card is
divided to single degrees marked by 5's. The internal walls if the
compass are marked with four "lubbers lines" at 90 degree intervals.
It is slung in a solid bronze gimbal supported on two bronze struts
also marked "HAND." Cleverly, these two internal struts attached the
binnacle directly to the yacht, providing a sturdy, "clean" look
without screw holes! For maximum visibility while affording
protection to the compass, the so-called "skylight" consists of 6
trapezoidal panes of glass tightly fitted into solid brass supports
forming a pyramid with a removable brass cap on the top. The front
pane is scribed down the center enabling the helmsman to align it
with the compass card and lubber line for maximum heading accuracy.
The compass measures 6 inches in diameter. The binnacle measures 10
inches across on the base and stands 13 1/2 inches tall. Totally
functional, superb condition throughout.
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