Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

What is a pocket compass used for?

1 Answer
What is a pocket compass used for?
A pocket compass is used for navigation. The magnetic needle turns until one end points north and the other points south. You can use this information to orient yourself and choose which direction to travel. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of antique and vintage pocket compasses.
1stDibs ExpertApril 5, 2022
Shop for Pocket Compass on 1stDibs
Pocket Compass / Nautical Compass Appears to be Marked Barker and Sons of London
By Frances Barker & Son
Located in Warrenton, OR
Pocket Compass / Nautical Compass. Appears to be marked Barker and Sons of London.
Category

Antique 1890s Unknown Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Metal

19th Century Sycamore Pocket Pantochronometer Compass Sundial
Located in Norwich, England
19th century pocket sundial compass pantochronometer. English.
Category

Antique 19th Century British Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Glass, Sycamore

Antique 18th Century Diptych Pocket Sundial and Compass by German Beringer
Located in Firenze, IT
With hinged gnomon, hour ring and latitude arc, silvered compass rose with two inset bubble levels, raised on three levelling screws, in velvet lined and shaped leather covered case,...
Category

Antique 1780s German Neoclassical Desk Accessories

Materials

Brass

Victorian J. Baum & Co Birmingham Gilt Metal Folding Pocket Sundial with Compass
Located in Nottingham, GB
A rare and highly decorative Victorian folding pocket sundial with integrated compass, attributed to J.
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Scientific Instruments

Materials

Metal

Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Pocket Cased Compass With Pouch and Tiffany Box
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Reading, Berkshire
Tiffany & Co Tiffany Sterling Silver Pocket Cased Compass. Made in Spain With Hallmarks and 2001 Stamp With Tiffany Blue® Pouch and Box.
Category

21st Century and Contemporary German Art Deco Scientific Instruments

Materials

Sterling Silver

Le Maire Paris French Silver 'Butterfield' Type Pocket Sundial & Compass 1740's
Located in Firenze, IT
AN EARLY 18TH CENTURY FRENCH SILVER 'BUTTERFIELD' TYPE POCKET SUNDIAL AND COMPASS. the octagonal plate dial engraved a sundial with four alternating rings of roman and Arabic numera...
Category

Antique 1740s French Baroque Boxes and Cases

Materials

Silver

Shop All