Magnificent Cartographic Marine Compass Very Well Preserved. Vienna, Early. Early 20th Century

This amazing marine plane table compass is a piece from the early 20th century. It was made in Wien, Austria by the prestigious marine and topographic instrument manufacturer E. Kraft & Sohn. The compass is made of silvery metal and golden brass, and comes in a solid tropical wooden box. This type of wood supports well the marine conditions. The compass is designed to be used over sea charts and planes, and it serves to determine the absolute and relative course in sea crossings. The compasss face bears a printed inscription: E. Kraft & Sohn in Wien, together with the instruments serial number: Nº 1749. E. Kraft & Sohn was founded by Carl Eduard Kraft (who later would work with his son Friedrich Wilhem) in 1823 to manufacture mathematics and physics instruments. In 1841 the company started to supply the builders of the Austrian railways with topographic surveying instruments. Their products were also used by Alois Negrelli in the Suez Canal. In the 1870s the firm moved to Theresanumgasse 27 where they remained past the turn of the century. The compass that we can see in the images is in perfect working order. The metal looks good, showing only slight signs of the trace of time and the sea conditions. The solid tropical-wooden box is in striking condition, with no cracks or worn parts. The lovely black veneer stands out on a golden brown background, creating a wonderful natural pattern. The metal hinges and lock are original too. Every lover of marine antiques will see an exceptional piece in this antique plane table compass that surely took part in many sea journeys. Measurements: Box: Width: 15.5 cm. Depth: 14.5 cm. Cover: Width: 16.5 cm. Depth: 15.5 cm.