West Sea Co. NAUTICAL INSTRUMENTS Catalog Page 3

West Sea Company

NAUTICAL INSTRUMENTS

Catalog Page 3

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3.68 ROYAL NAVY NAVIGATOR’s RULES. Genuine, World War II vintage rolling rules made of heavy solid brass for service in the British Navy as indicated by the Broad Arrow ↑ impressed with “PATT. No.160100” the top. This precision navigational instrument was designed to be used on the chart table to plot parallel lines relative to the compass rose. To accomplish this two ribbed wheels on a single axle engaged the chart surface while the mass of the rules prevented them from slipping. This provided the Navigator with a long, precise straight edge on which he could plot his ship’s course or its L.O.P.’s (lines of position). Stout knurled knobs on each end allowed him to easily position the rules. This lovely example measures 18 inches long by 2 ½ inches wide, 1 inch tall and weighs 3 1/2 pounds! It is housed in its original hinged mahogany case with brass fittings, measuring 19 inches long, 4 ¾ inches wide and 2 inches thick. Good original condition showing age and spotting to the original lacquered surfaces while exhibiting careful use. 245

The Computer History Museum located in Mountain View, California (Silicon Valley) has an identical set in its collection, catalog number B105.80.


RULES	BOTTOM	BOX	DETAIL

3.67 RARE SKYLIGHT BINNACLE. Early 20th century American yacht binnacle made by the prestigious “PERKINS MARINE LAMP & HDWE CORP. BROOKLYN, N.Y., U.S.A.” as embossed on the oval brass maker’s tag affixed to the front of the instrument. This exceptional example of an early 1900’s navigational device consists of an all brass binnacle with pyramidal top containing 6 panes of beveled glass. So configured, the liquid compass is easily read from any perspective. Of the finest quality, it contains 3 bar magnets suspended on an agate pivot. The composition card is marked in points of the compass down to 1/4 points and is additionally divided in degrees by two degree increments. It is marked with the cardinal and intercardinal points and North is designated by a radiating star signed “.Star.Boston.U.S.A.” The rim of the compass is also stamped with the maker’s name, “Star Boston, U.S.A.” This handsome specimen allows the skylight itself to be removed or secured by means of two knurled thumb screws on either side. Two stout brass tabs on the interior provide sturdy points of attachment to the vessel. Remarkably, the outer conical hood is still present. When in place it serves as a protective cover affording a limited view. The topmost cover is also removable, providing additional ambient light when needed. The absence of any electrical fittings indicates that this binnacle predates 1910. 11 ½ inches tall by 9 inches in diameter on the flange. Absolutely outstanding condition in every respect. Of the several skylight binnacles we have handled in our tenure, this is unquestionably the finest!

COMPASS

COVER

HELMSMAN'S VIEW

MAKER

WITH HOOD

3.66 EARLY SHIP’s “HARPOON” LOG. Mid 19th century ocean-going ship’s taffrail log made by the patentee, “T. WALKER’S PATENT HARPOON SHIP LOG A.1 London” as signed on the porcelain register. This all brass, finely-made navigational instrument was crucial to shipboard navigation in the 1800’s when “dead reckoning” was still the key. Such a log allowed the ship’s navigator to determine the actual distance that his ship had traveled in a given amount of time. To accomplish this the log was trailed off of the stern of the vessel. The built-in rotating “fish” with 4 canted fins and a stabilizer is connected internally through a series of reduction gears to the brass pointers on the register. The 3 dials on the register are calibrated in quarters, whole and tens of miles up to 100. The sum of the three dials indicated the number of nautical miles and fractions thereof that the ship had traveled. In addition to being signed on the register plate, each of the rotor fins is impressed with the maker’s mark “T.W.” and the distinctive anchor logo. To protect the all important register a built-in brass cover slides over the dials. For reading it revolves open with a simple twist. State-of-the-art for its time, this ship’s log is in fine original condition showing actual use at sea, exhibiting verdigris on all surfaces. Fully functional, circa 1865. Significantly, it still retains it original old sailor-worked rope attachment with leather reinforcement! The instrument itself measures 19 ½ inches long exclusive of the line. 695

Thomas Walker was born in London in 1805. In his early career he was a clockmaker who began manufacturing ship logs under Massey’s patent in 1850. Walker patented his own "harpoon" log in 1861 and an improved version the “A-1,” of which this is an example, in 1863. (M.V. Brewington, “The Peabody Museum Collection of Navigating Instruments, 1963, Peabody Museum, Salem, Mass.)

CLOSED

FINMARK

REGISTER

3.65 “HELMSMAN’S HELPER.” Scarce, first half of the 1900’s ship’s pilot house course indicator. This professionally-made, instrument-grade navigational device exhibits the finest craftsmanship. It consists of a solid teak housing fastened with recessed brass screws. Three “windows” in the front depict the course heading in degrees as indicated by three revolving teak drums with painted numerals. The drums are attached to wooden spindles mounted within brass rings marked “0-9.” A small keeper pin on each spindle fits into a numbered slot on each ring. That number corresponds to the painted number on the drum. As configured then, the device cleverly indicates courses from 000 degrees of heading through 360 degrees of the compass. The back of the housing is mounted onto a heavy, solid teak backboard which was attached to the bulkhead in the Pilothouse, right in front of the helmsman. There are two rectangular recesses in the backboard which would have accommodated brass mounting plates for extra strength. 14 ¼ inches wide by 8 inches high and 5 inches deep. Excellent original condition, noting expecting spotting on the brass rings. A superb example. 495

BACK

BOTTOM

PERSPECTIVE

TOP

DIALS

3.64 GERMAN SEXTANT for AMERICAN MARKET. Superb, early 20th century navigator's sextant made in Germany for the "Uttmark Nautical Corporation, New York" by "Welag XXII 167" as beautifully engraved on the large brass arc. The arc is inlaid with a silver scale finely calibrated from -5 to 155 divided down to 20 arc minutes and marked in 5 degree increments. This 19th century style sextant has a blackened bronze, ribbed frame. The index arm with fine adjust tangent screw has a silver vernier scale which allows readings down to 10 arc seconds. A frosted glass light diffuser above the scale and an adjustable high power magnifier aid in taking the reading. There are a full compliment of colored glass index and horizon filters and the threaded height-adjustable sight mount works perfectly. All 5 sight tubes are present. In addition there is a camel's hair brush and mirror adjustment tool. This instrument has a large shaped mahogany handle firmly mounted to the frame for easy handling. The entire outfit is contained within its beautifully-constructed solid walnut box with brass hook closures, folding brass carrying handle and original skeleton lock and key! The lid bears the label translated from German, "Certificate of Examination, Bremerhaven, 20th of May 1922." The box measures 10 3/4 by 12 inches and is 5 1/2 inches thick. This instrument and it box are in a remarkable state of original preservation, the likes of which we have not seen in our more than 30 years in this business! 1895

This sextant comes from one of the finest collections of important, early navigational instruments in private hands. It was acquired by an attorney schooled in Admiralty Law who was an avid Southern California collector in the 1950's and 60's. We were fortunate enough to acquire this collection from the gentleman's son in the late 1990's. The instrument offered here is one of the last remaining from that truly museum-quality collection.


DETAIL	IN BOX	SIGNATURE	CERTIFICATE	BOX

3.63 BELL FRAME SEXTANT.Exceptional very early 1900's English navigational sextant of the finest quality ever made.This "Class A" sextant as it is described on the "Certificate of Examination" was made by Heath & Co., New Eltham, London, U649" as engraved on the large brass arc.This exquisite instrument has several features befitting its Class A quality.The arc is inlaid with a silver scale calibrated from -5 to 160 degrees divided to 10 arc minutes, effectively making this sextant a "quintant."The reinforced index arm has a silver vernier scale which allows for reading accuracy down to 10 arc seconds.It is equipped with a frosted glass light diffuser and a delicate pivoting magnifier to aid in making the reading.The index arm has a fast-acting clamp on a worm gear, a unique Heath feature. Riveted to it is an embossed plaque reading ""HEZZANITH" ENDLESS TANGENT SCREW Automatic Clamp -.- Patent 17840 -.-Semper Paratus." (always ready). The knurled knobs are of Bakelite.The rigid yet lightweight bronze frame is cast in the form of a "bell." It has an adjustable/removable sight tube holder and is equipped with a full set of pivoting index and horizon shades.Both of the index and horizon mirrors have adjustment screws which are protected within their individual knurled brass caps.The large sculpted wooden handle on the back is firmly attached to the frame at three points and is faced with an ivory plate around a hole in its center.Cleverly, the hole fits over a brass post within the box, which locks the sextant firmly in place by means of a spring-loaded, remotely operated button marked "PATENT."Once in place, a pivoting wooden brace adds extra security.This amazing instrument has a full compliment of accessories including one non-optical peep tube, 3 telescopes and one huge light gathering "night vision" monocular.It also has two eyepiece sun filters, screw driver and adjusting wrench.Even more remarkable, it has yet another feature we have not encountered before.It is an accessory that clamps to the large arc for use in taking large readings.It is marked "Greater Angle Clamp, Pat. App. For" and consists of a small knurled locking screw, tensioning spring and "0" registering pointer.The equally well-made box is of solid, hand-dovetailed mahogany with all brass fittings including its original lock, piano hinge, inset folding brass handle and unique locking hook closures.The interior of the box is reinforced with brass plates where the sextant "feet" make contact.The top lid of the box is inlaid with a traditional brass "shield," and one side of the box bears an ivory plaque reading "20th Century Mark I Sextant."The inside lid of the box retains its brass-framed certificate of examination with the Royal crest of a lion and unicorn.It reads in part, "The National Physical Laboratory Teddington... Sextant U649...Class A... November 1921." signed by the director. The box measures 11 by 10 1/2 by 5 1/2 inches.Outstanding in all respects! 1995

The Heath name has a long reputation in the British scientific instrument community for quality and innovation.Thomas Heath began his manufactory as a mathematical instrument maker in 1720.His association with some of the early greats such as John Watkins, George Adams, Charles Dodd and John Troughton, tell of his status.Thomas partnered with Tycho Wing in 1751 and the firm continued as Heath & Wing until 1771.Thereafter, two Heaths, George and William, carried on the business into the 19th century.George Heath was apprenticed to another legendary nautical instrument maker, Henry Hughes.In 1845 Thomas Heath, II took over the business and the firm name changed to Heath & Company.Under that name it continued well into the 20th century, known by acronym "Hezzanith." The British patent for Hezzanith's endless screw tangent was issued in 1909.


DETAIL	SIGNATURE	IN BOX	CERTIFICATE


BOX DETAIL	PERSPECTIVE	BOX

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".)


COMPASS CARD	CAPTAIN'S VIEW

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.)


CARD	HELMSMAN'S VIEW	BOWL

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).


TUBES	BOX	PAPER

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


DIAL	DIAL DETAIL

3.25 BOAT BINNACLE. Truly rare, genuine 19th century ship's life boat binnacle from a British ship. This fine 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. The substantial all brass compass is slung in gimbals and mounted within its brass binnacle with glazed oval viewing port and stout carrying ring at the top. For night viewing the binnacle is equipped with a whale oil side lamp with original burner and early form 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 binnacles in original condition that are of this type and vintage are extremely scarce. 1200

HELMSMAN'S
VIEW COMPASS SIDE
LAMP

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.


SIDE	CLOSED

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 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).


DETAIL	COMPASS	FRONT	BACK

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.

DETAIL

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.


CARD	PERSPECTIVE

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.

HELMSMANS VIEW COMPASS PERSPECTIVE BURNER

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.


INSTRUMENT	INSTRUMENT DETAIL	BACK


SCALE MARK	SIGNATURE	LABEL	DOCUMENTS	BOX

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

3.56 RARE DOUBLE FRAME SEXTANT. Spectacular, early 19th C. pillar frame mariner's sextant made by the inventor. This lovely instrument has an index arm measuring 10 inches in length. The complex all brass double frame has inlaid platinum scales as indicated by the word "Platina" engraved on the strut just above the main arc, which is signed "Troughton, London." On the vertical limb above the scale is the engraved serial number "1400" above which is a beautifully-engraved old fashioned anchor. Above the anchor on the cross brace are the initials "T.L." and the Serial "No. 91." The large arc is calibrated up to 150 degrees divided by 20 arc minute increments. 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 its early form rosewood handle, is complete and in excellent condition, having been carefully cleaned while retaining 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. Some spotting and slight corrosion are in evidence -- good, expected indicators of sea service. A true museum piece!

Edward Troughton (1755-1835) 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.


REVERSE	SIGNATURE	IN BOX	BOX