Post WW2 Japanese Naval Landing Craft Binnacle Compass by Maizuru Meter Manufacturing Company

Here on offer is a rare post WWII Japanese Naval Landing Craft Binnacle Compass, circa 1948.

I have been told these compasses where used by the Japanese during WW2 primarily for their Naval landing craft but as they are portable, where used on a range of military Navel craft.

It appears from the later Japanese to English translation, that this fine example was actually made in 1948, when Japan was trying to regenerate its economy and industry.

The compass is a large portable binnacle constructed from metal and Bakelite with a carrying handle and a brass light box on the side. The whole assembly is mounted on a thin wooden base.

It measures 13.4" (34cm) high to the top of the handle, 10.25" (26cm) wide (including the lamp) and 8.25" (21cm) deep and weighs a heavy 4.15Kg.

The interior has a painted white finish and there is a small glass access window at rear with a hinged Bakelite cover. Another opening on the side allows light to enter the interior from a brass oil/fuel burning wicked lamp that is in full working order. This assembly unlocks and hinges open to allow access to the lamp for cleaning and refilling the fuel.

The front has a large glass-viewing window that hinges upwards for access to the compass itself and is secured by two Bakelite locking knobs (one to each side).

The compass itself is in excellent order, with all the compass points still crisp and clear to view.

Also on the front is a maker’s metal plaque with details in Japanese.

A kind collector (Armouryantiques.com) has translated the Japanese to English for me as shown below:

舞計式五型磁気羅針儀 Maikei shiki gogata jiki rashingi
Magnetic compass model 5, type Maikei

製造番号 第?88号 Seizoh bangoh dai ?88 goh
Serial number: ?88

製造年月 昭和23年４月 Seizoh nengetsu Showa nijyu'ni nenn shi gatsu
Date of manufacture: April, 1948

株式会社 舞鶴計器製作所 Kabushikigaisha Maizuru Keiki Seisakusho
Maizuru Meter Manufacturing Company

Maikei 舞計 is the abbreviation for Maizuru Keiki 舞鶴計器.
The company is located in Maizuru City, Kyoto.

A rare compass to find especially in this excellent condition. Makes a great working Naval display item.
As this is a large and heavy item, UK postage will be £12 via Parcel Force but please contact me via email for the best international postage charge for your specific country.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Code: 50189