WW1 brass compass with a mother of pearl dial, English circa 1914

This superb example of an early 20th century heavy folding brass compass is of a design and type often issued to officers in the First World War.

This fine example is not marked for military issue and seems to be of an extra high quality with the addition of an engraved solid mother of pearl dial with a large red gemstone mounted pivoted axis.

This complicated precision instrument has a folding case with a glass aperture and, when opened, reveals an adjustable viewing lens which magnifies for very accurate vernier readings of the dial.

The compass also has a sliding side button for locking the dial for not in use and a side clamping mechanism for locking the rotating bezel with its glass fronted indicator.

The outside of the case is stamped around the edge with pole directions and degrees. The compass also has a large folding loupe for attaching and carrying.

This compass could have been for military use or, most likely, a high quality personal piece for an adventurous traveller.

The compass is in excellent working condition.

Height 2cm x width 9cm x depth 5.5cm sizes when folded

English circa 1914