An authentic nautical antique, this brass and oak ship's binnacle compass is signed "J C Krohn & Son, Bergen, Norway." It appears complete and working, the liquid-filled gimbal suspension compass points north, but we are not experts.
This navigational compass is called a helmet style, from the copper helmet-shaped swivel cover, and would have been mounted to the floor next to the ships wheel. The octagonal oak base has a rich deep brown finish that is very good, and the rosy brass is beautiful. Adjustable compensating balls are on brass arms at each side of the compass. The brass tube is often called a navigation chart holder, but we are told it is actually for a magnetic "Flinders" bar for greater accuracy. Inside an oak door is a light socket, but the wiring is missing.
Age is unknown, but appears to be about 75 years old. Measurements are 31" wide, 21" deep and 57" tall. D-B2125
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