Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
What is a pocket compass?
1 Answer
A pocket compass consists of a magnetic needle encased in a nonmagnetic case that allows the needle to freely swing over a graded face or dial. A pocket compass is a timeless instrument — it can be used for research or navigation in remote areas as well as in dark and foggy conditions. On 1stDibs, find a variety of antique and vintage pocket compasses.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 2, 2021
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
