Victorian Period Francis Barker & Son of London Pattern Pocket Travelling “Tub” Compass c1880

Here on offer is a Victorian period Francis Barker of London, pattern pocket travelling “tub” compass, circa 1880.

The dial features a much sought after printed paper card dial, showing traditional English cardinal and intercardinal points (N, S, E, W, NNE, etc.).

Just beneath the North fleur-de-lis decoration, it contains the signature "Trade Mark London" circular emblem with the intertwined "B & S" initials with the reversed central letter 'S', confirming it dates the compass to sometime after 1875, as this style of logo was adopted after Francis Barker's death in 1875.

I believe this classic Barker design which was first produced back in the 1860s.
The outer edge of the dial is marked "MADE IN ENGLAND" and features crisp 0-360 degree tracking.

It is fitted with a classic English crossbar-style blued steel needle, that indicates
North.

It is encased in a solid circular brass "tub" case paired with its original push-fit brass lid.

The compass is in excellent condition, with a fine paper dial and clear viewing glass and it still finds North, when placed on a flat surface.

The brass case is perfect apart from a slight shallow dent in the lid. The lid fits very tightly to the tub.

Francis Barker & Son: were established in London in 1848, as a maker of compasses and scientific instruments. Francis Barker produced a very wide range of compass designs over the years, supplying major retailers such as Negretti & Zambra, J. Lizars,
C. W. Dixey, Dollond, and many others. The company prospered until 1932, when it was taken over and became F. Barker & Son (1932).
After WW2 the company changed hands several times and the name is now carried by
Pyser-SGI. They continue to produce the renowned Barker M-73, widely acknowledged to be the world's finest prismatic compass.

This fine example will make a great addition to any compass collection.

It measures 1.9” (4.8cm) diameter and is 0.75” (1.8cm) thick with the lid in place.

It weighs 25g

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: 52553