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RARE Early Antique J. BLATTNER, ST. LOUIS, MO. Brass Surveyor's Vernier Compass

$ 256.05

Availability: 100 in stock
  • Condition: Good 'used instrument' condition with nicks, dings and wear from use.
  • Country/Region of Manufacture: United States
  • All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
  • Modified Item: No

    Description

    Here we have a
    RARE Early Antique J. BLATTNER, ST. LOUIS, MO. Brass Surveyor's Vernier Compass.
    Jacob Blattner was born in Berne, Switzerland
    . and
    was thoroughly trained in the art of manufacturing precision instruments
    . He traveled to the USA the 1830’s, got married, and the couple returned to Switzerland.
    In 1839, Jacob and his wife, along with his foreman and his foreman’s family immigrated to the United States.
    Blattner opened a shop at 24 Chestnut
    ,
    St. Louis City
    in
    1840 as a mathematical instrument maker.
    His shop manufactured all types of mathematical, scientific and optical instruments.  He
    offered a large range of surveyor’s compasses.
    His sole-proprietorship lasted until his retirement in 1871.
    The successor to Jacob Blattner’s operation of 30 years was the company, Blattner & Adam. The principals were Henry Blattner, Jacob's son, and Frank Adam, Jacob's son-in-law.
    The successor company operated from 1872-1891.
    This surveyors vernier compass has a silvered brass compass dial that is inscribed: J. Blattner, St. Louis, Mo.  The dial face is divided in eight sections with directional designations and a very nice large
    Fleur
    -
    de
    -lis
    logo representing North. The compass has an elevated dial edge with 360 degree graduation around perimeter.  There is a finely sculpted steel needle. The bottom mounted needle lift/lock is missing its thumbscrew.  There is a vernier adjustment knob which operates gears to revolve the compass, and a locking knob below the compass case. (There is a tiny bit of damage on the edge of the vernier plate with an edge folding up.  This doesn't affect the function.  see pics)   The top of the main frame is also outfitted with two upright sighting vanes.  The vanes have slit, peep hole sights and can be removed for ease of transport. The bottom of the compass has a tripod attachment collar.  Instrument is 16-1/2" Long with 7-1/2" tall vanes and a 6-1/4" diameter compass.
    This instrument has a very nice aged patina finish
    !! This is decent example of one of the St. Louis surveyor, scientific instrument makers that deserves a place in your collection.
    Note: Shipping cost quote is for PA to CA.  If you live closer to me in PA shipping should be less.
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