Ever seen a compass like this?

[Rancho113]

I was told that this was used on WWII life boats. Hence the hook on the back. It's all copper, non ferris, a magnet won't stick anywhere. The small box on the right opens to expose a small kerosene lantern with a reflector mounted on the door. Made by the Lionel Corp. It looks legit to me and is in great shape. Mark

Information

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[gtodan]

Awesome piece! Whats your story?

[Rancho113]

I was working for a couple who was cleaning out their friend's estate. Everything was for sale and I have a weakness for antiques and military gear. This was the only military item they had.

[gtodan]

Look closely at the bezel ring on the compass. Any numbers or data there?

You have a binnacle compass. A Mariners most important tool at sea. Probably date to early 1940's. Could be for a lifeboat, possibly for a smaller type Navy boat. I've seen binnacles that stood four feet tall. The bigger the boat, the bigger the binnacle. Very nice condition. Lots of info on the internet about binnacles.

[Rancho113]

gto.... yes I can see the manufacture in there but may have to remove the compass to get a good read. Stay tuned...

[gtodan]

I would not mess with the compass. Its mounted on gimbels. Pretty sensitive to deal with unless you know what you are doing.

[Paul S.]

As a guess, and strictly a guess, I would say it is for landing craft.

[browningautorifle]

If you go to this link, you'll se the compass in question and value. Cuttysark Nautical Antiques Lifeboat compass.

[Rancho113]

Thanks Jim. I had only been able to find pictures of the same compass but nothing to show the value. Not to mention that the one for sale has a nasty dent on top and a lot of corrosion inside.
Thanks again. Mark

[Maple_Leaf_Eh]

If anything, sell t to a Lionel model train collector.