Kelvin & Hughes Marine Compass in Excellent Condition. England, 1950's

Fine compass for nautical use made in England in the 1950s, in very good condition and perfect working order. The compass is made of golden brass and comes in its original solid wooden chest; it is firmly attached to it in order to guarantee a reliable performance. The compasss face is also well preserved and so is the protecting glass. This compass is a very decorative item, perfect to be shown off in a classy study or room or in a showcase full of sea and shipping-related antiques. The compasss face bears the printed name and logo of the manufacturing firm, KELVIN & HUGHES, and the place of making, ENGLAND. This company was founded more than 250 years ago and is still active as one of the most prestigious manufacturers of navigation instruments and radar systems. The company started out in 1947 from the merging of two powerful manufacturers: Kelvin Bottomley & Baird Ltd and Henry Hughes & Son Ltd. The former was the consequence of the professional relationship between William Thompson (Lord Kevin) and James White, while the latter was founded by the Hughes family who were clockmakers in the East End of London who progressed into supplying sextants and marine chronometers to ships coming into the River Thames. The fine compass that we can see in the photographs is stored inside a no-less beautiful solid wooden chest. It is made of tropical wood, a typical election for shipping pieces as this material stands well the exposition to seawater, weathering and temperature changes. The chest boasts a lovely reddish golden tone and a deep dark irregular veneer. It bears brass reinforcements in the corners that provide it with sturdiness and enhance its attractive look. Inside the cover there is a red velvet lining original from the period. Elegant and timeless, this antique compass is the perfect gift for any lover of ship antiques. Measurements: Width: 7 in / 18 cm. Depth: 7 in / 18 cm.