Edwardian Brass Prismatic Compass by F. Barker & Co. London | English Navigation Instrument, c. 1903–1912

For the voyager … a refined Edwardian prismatic pocket compass by F. Barker & Co., London, dating to  1903–1912. Compact, brass-cased, and fitted with a rear prism sight and flip-up lid lens, it represents the type of instrument carried by officers, surveyors, and long-distance travelers in the years immediately preceding the First World War. As a finely made example of precision field equipment, it would display beautifully on a gentleman’s desk, side table or library shelf.

Francis Barker & Co. were Britain’s foremost compass manufacturers from the late 1800s through World War II.  Besides being the primary supplier to the British War Office, Barker also produced professional-grade private-issue compasses like ours, used extensively across Britain and the empire by survey firms, exploration parties, and commercial expeditions.

This compass features Barker’s early twin-control system, with a sliding transit lock for safe carrying and a separate damping brake button used to momentarily steady the needle when taking a bearing. The prismatic sight allowed the user to read a bearing while simultaneously sighting a distant landmark, making instruments of this type indispensable for field navigation and long-distance travel.

Dimensions (lid closed, including carrying loop): 3” x 2” x 3/4"
Weight: 3.6 oz.

Condition notes: Excellent antique condition overall. Brass case shows light, even surface wear and scattered age marks consistent with early field use; brass has been intentionally left unpolished with no dents, splits, or structural damage noted. Hinged lid opens easily and closes securely. Compass is fitted with Barker’s early twin-control system: sliding transit lock engages and releases cleanly to secure the needle during carrying, and the separate damping brake button functions like a camera shutter—momentarily steadies the card for quick, readable bearings and then releases automatically. Rear prism sight and flip-up lid lens are intact and operate smoothly. Damping fluid remains present with no visible evaporation bubbles. Floating dial card spins freely, centers correctly, and settles as intended. White enamel dial is clean and legible with no staining, warping, or structural loss. All glazing is clear and free of cracks, or chips. Exterior cover stamped “F. BARKER & CO. MAKERS LONDON.” Other items in photos not included.

Unless noted, all items are hand-wrapped and gift-boxed. We offer flat rate shipping via USPS Ground Advantage for $10, or USPS Priority Mail for $15. Orders over $100 ship free via USPS Priority Mail — any shipping charges for orders over $100 will be refunded after checkout. We pack with safety and care using recycled and recyclable materials whenever possible.

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