Leveling instrument / Azimuth circle - Brass, Wood






He accumulated 18 years' experience, worked as junior specialist at Sotheby’s and managed Kunsthandel Jacques Fijnaut.
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Description from the seller
Beautiful antique nautical instrument, used aboard seas-going ships for navigation and position determination. This sighting device was mounted on the compass rose to determine the exact bearing of objects on the horizon or celestial bodies.
Unique to this piece is the foldable frame with dark glass (shadow light). This allowed the navigator to directly sight the sun without being blinded, essential for checking the compass deviation.
The delicate vertical sighting wire is fully intact. By aligning the slot on one side and the wire on the other with an object, the helmsman could read the exact degree on the compass.
Heavily built in black brass with serial number 2783.
Included is the original wooden case with sliding lid, which protected the instrument from the rough conditions at sea.
This instrument is a beautiful example of nautical craftsmanship.
It was used, among other things, for:
Terrestrial surveys: determining position relative to coastlines and lighthouses.
Probably made in England. The connoisseur will surely know.
Very many photos have been added so the condition of the instrument can be assessed well.
Photos are part of the description.
The instrument will be packed with great care, sent by registered mail and insured with a track and trace code.
See also my other lots and possibly save on shipping costs.
Not shipped to the United States.
Seller's Story
Beautiful antique nautical instrument, used aboard seas-going ships for navigation and position determination. This sighting device was mounted on the compass rose to determine the exact bearing of objects on the horizon or celestial bodies.
Unique to this piece is the foldable frame with dark glass (shadow light). This allowed the navigator to directly sight the sun without being blinded, essential for checking the compass deviation.
The delicate vertical sighting wire is fully intact. By aligning the slot on one side and the wire on the other with an object, the helmsman could read the exact degree on the compass.
Heavily built in black brass with serial number 2783.
Included is the original wooden case with sliding lid, which protected the instrument from the rough conditions at sea.
This instrument is a beautiful example of nautical craftsmanship.
It was used, among other things, for:
Terrestrial surveys: determining position relative to coastlines and lighthouses.
Probably made in England. The connoisseur will surely know.
Very many photos have been added so the condition of the instrument can be assessed well.
Photos are part of the description.
The instrument will be packed with great care, sent by registered mail and insured with a track and trace code.
See also my other lots and possibly save on shipping costs.
Not shipped to the United States.
