[M] A RARE GEORGIAN LIQUID-FILLED PORTABLE...

A RARE GEORGIAN LIQUID-FILLED PORTABLE BINNACLE COMPASS BY GEORGE WILSON, LONDON, C.1825
with 5in. compass card sealed within a rigid liquid-filled brazed brass bowl, signed on the rim George Wilson 23 Sherwood St. London W, with spirit inlet valve, glazed back glass to lamp housing complete with burner, mounted on a square brass foot with mahogany base -- 14¾in. (37.5cm.) high, including lamp

This is probably the same George Wilson who is recorded as making binnacles from 20 Glasshouse St., Piccadilly in 1825. Although liquid-filled compasses were demonstrated by Sir Edmund Halley to the Royal Society as early as 1690, the first liquid-filled mariner's compass believed practicable for limited use was patented by Francis Crow in 1813. Liquid-damped marine compasses for ships and small boats were only occasionally used by the Royal Navy, the standard Admiralty compass remained a dry-mount type. Despite these advances, the liquid compass was not introduced generally into the Royal Navy until 1908.

Condition Report
Fine condition overall, with evidence of earlier polishing: worn signature and address, though readable, and spotting of verdigris or old polish over the left hand side.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.