Richard Frères Paris Aneroid Desk Barometer – Antique, Functional Collector’s Item For sale is an aneroid desk barometer with integrated thermometer and compass, a rare piece of fine mechanics made by the famous French workshop Richard Frères (Paris), in the late 19th / early 20th century. The Richard Frères firm (founded in 1882 by Jules and Max Richard) was one of the most famous brands of scientific instruments in France, renowned for the precision of its instruments. Technical features and details: Authenticity mark: Official round stamp on the back with the monogram “RF”, the text “Breveté” (Patented) and the city “Paris”. Main mechanism: Fully functional! The inner aneroid capsule (visible through the center of the dial) is intact and watertight, reacting correctly to variations in atmospheric pressure (the mechanism has been tested). Dial: In French (Tempête, Variable, Beau Fixe, Très Sec). It has the main indicator needle (blue) and the reference/memory needle (gold), manually adjustable via the serrated central button on the glass. Additional components: An original magnetic compass is integrated in the upper part, with the cardinal points in French, perfectly functional. Case: Solidly made of solid brass with a superb vintage patina and Art Deco style carrying handle. On the back it shows the original hole for the pressure calibration screw. Condition: The barometer mechanism and the compass work perfectly. It shows natural traces of wear and historical oxidation of the brass, which gives it authenticity. Defect: The glass capillary tube of the thermometer on the lower scale is missing (it can be replaced / restored, the metal scale is intact). For this reason, the price is reflected as such. A special piece for collectors of vintage scientific instruments, elegant office decor or a gift with history