Just got my MkIII Compass back from Trademark London

[DaveN]

This is so cool. I am now hunting for a compass of my own. they are a fascinating little instrument. Sort of the GPS of it's time. I have not read the entire thread and if the answer to my question is in it I apologize now, but how much cash would I be spending on a fair to good example? And where is a good place to start looking?

[Peter Laidler]

I don't know about prices Dave N but they really are superb instruments, built to last. In fact, we used to say '....built by the people who built Stonehenge!' I'd get one that is slightly defective in that it is complete but had aerated - got a bubble in it. With a bubble, they are defective and as such you can negotiate. While I have gone threough the very basics and you could do it yourself, especially if you can be bothered to build a degassing tank and source some isopropy, the GOOD news is that trademark on this forum can give them the works.

Might I be so bold as to suggest that you don't polish the case back to brass but leave it black or khaki green - as it should be

[bramble]

Hi Dave, I hope I can help you by suggesting that you visit "Trademark London", site and view what Paul has on offer and I'm sure you will be impressed and save yourself the bother of buying a lot of hassle with the likes of gummy, gungy masticky problem and possibly damaged compasses, which I'm sure Paul would not be too keen on refurbishing (My opinion) as he has mentioned that compass tecnicians probably won't entertain other peoples repairs. I wish I had bought from "Trademark London " in the first instance.

[trademarklondon]

Hi DaveN
Please click on the link in post 108 of this thread for advice on buying a used compass.
It is highly inadvisable to purchase a compass with a bubble, or even one without a bubble if it doesn't come with a current certificate of service and calibration, and a guarantee.
Bear in mind that a full service will cost you GBP 130 upwards, and if you combine that with the cost you paid for the old compass you might just as well buy a new one.
Remember also that no compass maker will repair other people's mistakes, so if you have a go yourself and get it wrong then you are stuck with it.
Please read the link in post number 108, not far behind this one, and it may help you.
Good luck.

[bramble]

Hi Paul, have not long read the email you sent me which makes for some interesting reading which others could benefit from as it is enlightening and gives one a choice as to which road to go down when it comes to compass repair.

[grads]

I'm saving up for the Stanley L1A1 trade mark has just put in his shopp - real eyecandy!!!

[cuerno de chivo]

Hello, I got this compas that looks exacly as a MKIII but without military markings.
It was my grandfather's who was a prospector in the 50-70's
It is in great cosmetic condition never openned but the bowl is half empty.
The brand is Casella
I post it to share with others and I would like to know when it was made.
I'm terrified to learn it is potentially highly radioactive.
Any other input welcome.

Thanks

Alain


By lutah at 2011-10-18

By lutah at 2011-10-18

By lutah at 2011-10-18

[grads]

Paul's left this forum mate... says he won't be back because they continue to encourage a member who tells people to play with Radium, and censors the good guy who criticises that advice - slow motion suicide he says.

[Peter Laidler]

It's just a shame that there isn't a place for a personal reply Grads.............. Your one sided comment is absolutely outrageous. On the other hand, maybe it's a GOOD idea that there is no facility for a personal reply. What bile...... and second hand bile at that too............................

[cuerno de chivo]

Thanks for the info, live and let die I say
I think I'll get rid of it anyway