Presented is a very large early American binnacle compass that has a rectangular brass hood over a teak wood base. Its very large size, and lack of compensating spheres, indicates that it came from a wood hulled ocean going sailing vessel such as a size schooner or brig. There are no markings on the case, but its styling and method of manufacture are distinctively American. The two side ports originally held twin kerosene burners which have gone missing. A picture is included to show what they may have looked like and is not part of the offering.

THE DIRIGO COMPASS is an early example and in excellent condition. It is beautifully made of heavy weight bronze. The E.M. Sherman Company started in Seattle, WA in 1907, and is still in operation making compasses under the Dirigo brand. The great majority of the West Coast trading vessels and fishing fleet is said to use their compasses. This one, which we estimate to date to 1910, has had its fluid drained which accounts for its excellent state of preservation. The paper compass card is 6 inches in diameter, and turns on a jeweled center pivot. A Fleur des Lis designates North and under it is imprinted "Dirigo" which means to guide or direct. On the opposite side is imprinted E.M. Sherman, Seattle, WA, USA. The card is divided in degrees on its outer perimeter, and then into the classic points, cardinal and sub cardinal points. 11 1/14  degree equals one point so that 32 points complete the circle.

THE CASE: The original teak binnacle case is simple, but elegantly made and has its original slanted and beveled glass front port with hood over that is typical of the period. There is a opening port on each side which at one time carried removable kerosene burners that have gone missing as is the case with many such binnacles. The brass is in excellent condition with only the most minor of blemishes. There is a hook on back to secure it to a pedestal mount. A hinged front door opens to allow for storage of the captain's orders.

Example of missing burners

Large viewing area

Front opening Teak wood base

3/4 back view showing hook

DIMENSIONS:

Case  9 1/4" W x 9" D x 14" H                             Weight 18 1/2 pounds
Compass card diameter 6"
Gimbal diameter              8 1/2"

OUR UNCONDITIONAL NO NONSENSE GUARANTEE: If not completely satisfied with your purchase it may be returned, if without damage, within three days of receipt in its original packaging. Return items must be insured for their full value. Only a prior email authorization by us for the return is required. Shipping charges are included in this offer if the error is due to our fault.

International buyers welcome, but inquire first.  We have satisfied customers in Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bermuda, British Virgin Islands, Canada, Chile, China, Czech Republic, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, Estonia, England, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Martinique, Mexico, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Nova Scotia, Panama, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, St. Maarten, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, USVI and the Eastern Caribbean.

Buy this very special American made ship's binnacle compass!  What a great find for that special collection that includes only the finest and most unusual.

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