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ARKAS Magnetic Liquid Marine Compass, Copenhagen

Gimballed phosphor bronze liquid compass · ARKAS, Copenhagen, Denmark · mid-20th century

US $1,250.00 · or best offer

Large polished bronze marine compass with a domed glass, gimbal ring, and protective hood fitted with a lamp.
The polished phosphor bronze compass in its gimbal mount and hood.

Description

A large ARKAS magnetic liquid marine compass of the mid-twentieth century, low serial number 0489, made in Copenhagen by a Danish firm long known for precision navigation equipment. Built for professional maritime use, it is a substantial instrument: heavy phosphor bronze, a polished dome, and a presence that fills a room.

The compass is fully gimballed for stability at sea and enclosed in a protective hood fitted with a lamp and sliding storm-view curtains. The card measures 13½ inches in diameter, liquid-filled for steadiness, with a magnetized needle indicating magnetic north. Overall height is 15 inches, and the instrument weighs approximately 62 pounds.

The bronze has been polished and the instrument is clean and ready for display. It ships with the compass fluid intact and, owing to its weight, is packed in three separate boxes.

Photographs

Details

MakerARKAS, Copenhagen, Denmark
PeriodMid-20th century
Serial number0489
MaterialPhosphor bronze, polished
Diameter13½ in.
Height15 in.
WeightApprox. 62 lb
FeaturesFull gimbal mount; hood with lamp and sliding storm-view curtains
ReferenceeBay item 277993918383

Condition

Excellent vintage condition and operational, though calibration would be required for maritime use; the compass card has a minor balance weight that may need adjustment. The original electrical wiring and light bulb are included but untested, and rewiring is recommended. Mechanical workings have not been professionally tested.