Antique WWI-era Wardale Marching Compass c. 1917-1918 | Hardwood Case with Brass Details

For the historian … a handsome English WWI-era Wardale marching compass in hardwood case, likely dating to 1918. Measuring 3 inches square, the compass features brass hinges and hook clasp, original glass cover, a printed 360-degree dial, and a rotating brass sighting arm. The case shows honest wear from use in the field, but retains worn hot-stamped marks for J. Wardale & Co., London, along with a partial date and serial number. Still fully functional, it would make a distinctive display piece for a gentleman’s desk or side table.

John Wardale & Co. was a prominent British scientific and navigational instrument manufacturer, best known for producing military marching and trench compasses during World War I. Documented examples of this same Wardale pattern are consistently stamped with a date of 1918, which places our example well within wartime compass production.  Marching compasses of this type would have been used by British officers and soldiers for taking and following bearings on foot.

Dimensions: 3-1/16” x 3-1/16” 2-5/8” x 1” (closed) 
Weight: 1.5 ounces

Condition notes: Good antique condition overall, with compass mechanism fully functional and hardwood case structurally sound. Outer lid retains partial hot-stamped marks for J. Wardale & Co., London, with partial year (191_) and serial number visible under close inspection. Case shows honest age-related wear throughout, including surface scratches, small edge notches, mottled finish, and areas of varnish loss. One small screw is missing from interior hinge, however this does not affect structural integrity and lid still opens easily and closes securely. Brass hinges, hook clasp, sighting arm, and fittings show tarnish and light surface wear consistent with age and use. Original glass cover is intact and free of chips or cracks. Compass functions as intended, with gold arrow settling north and printed 360-degree dial rotating freely. Internal brass locking screw unscrews and screws down as intended. Case has been lightly cleaned and waxed.  Other items in photos not included.  

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