Dent boats liquid marine compass and binnacle (06/20/2011)

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Dent boats liquid marine compass and binnacle

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Dent boats liquid marine compass and binnacle

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Sold Date: 06/20/2011
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay UK
Category: Transportation and Vehicles

I can only include the US by showing a postal rate, but US bidders should still make arrangements as shown at the end of this description.

E.Dent & Co London, 61 Strand, London manufactured this compass around 1896.

Engraved in the rim on top of compass: E. Dent & Co London - Boat Compass No 43781. There are also two of the Dent triangle trade marks. This number is hard stamped on the top of the mahogany case door confirming that no interchange has taken place.

There is an ink hand written date on the left side of the instructions : 23.6.96 (1896). 12JUN picture added.

This compass was standard issue for the Royal Navy 1914-18 and an identical compass can be seen at the Maritime Museum in Grenwich. Search: ACO0183

My compass is in its original condition i.e. not altered or polished. The oil burner housing contains the original brass container with an appropriate filling funnel. The last three serial numbers are hard stamped in the burner casing (781).

The entire pyramid is massive brass and can be polished up if desired. The weight is 11Kg

Some of the putty around the massive bevelled glass is missing as shown on the photo

There are two screws missing below the oil burner side windows. These screws are on the rim between the pyramid and the case and I do not know their function.

I bought this compass 34 years ago and I 'stored' it in my shed with the intention of cleaning it up and perhaps even doing a bit of polishing.

The overall conditions is near perfect, due to the superior workmanship of the Dent team but there is some dust and miscolouring here and there. I prefer to leave 'as is' and let the buyer decide how and if to clean.

This is probably the best item from my shed clearing exercise, but there will be considerable more to come.

This item is so unique that I am reluctant to send it by mail and suggest either collect or that I part deliver. I live 100miles N of Aberdeen so for most bidders it will be quite a drive. I am going to Harwich by car in August and could meet with the buyer en route. I still had to show a postage cost in order to complete the listing but I really prefer not to mail this rare compass.

Courier could be used, but I really hate to think that there is a possibility for the Compass to be damaged or even dissapear.

Meanwhile just send me a mail with questions or request for further pictures. Quick reply guaranteed.

I am not into secrecy so please use my first name, which is Henning.

Also any shipment costs will be exactly the same as what I pay. My joiner will do a box for £20, if required.

Bidders from the US should be prepared to make their own shipping arrangements (courier) which should include packaging. The courier shall collect at my door. The weight is 11 Kg with overall dimensions: 31cm height with handle down, 28cm wide with burner on and 23cm deep.

LET US GO SAILING