Description

A fine and rarely used, patented green card prismatic compass by Schmalcalder in it’s original leather case c.1812.

War issue, serial number 765B (on lid and instrument), this instrument is complete, functional and near perfect. The one to own for the compass collector or connoisseur of war memorabilia, this 7 cm. round compass has features not seen on later models. Signed “Schmalcalder’s PATENT,  82, Strand, London” in flowing script, the green paper card unlocks and floats flawlessly on it’s pivot point (still points North). Button for quick stop, prism on vertically adjustable arm (for focus) with covered solar filter and folding sighting vane with hair intact. Schmalcalder was so fussy to produce the best, he even went so far as to have 4 cutouts (one finely filed to fit the unlocking mechanism) in the lid whereas later models by Barker, etc. have only 2 (for vane and prism). The compass is 2.5 cm. (one inch in thickness). Minor scratches to both external surfaces from leather case withdrawal, otherwise perfect internal lacquer and original unmarred glass. The 360 degree green dial is divided into one degree increments and rotates freely. A finer instrument by a unique maker and patentee you will not see for some time. Leather case with strap and belt loop measures 10 x 4 cm.

Charles Augustus Schmalcalder was at 82, The Strand in London from 1810-26.