Vintage Quality TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass MOD Mark II, Custom Wood Case

Description

Please See The Description And Attached Multiple-Related Pictures To Get A Comprehensive Visual Overview Of The Extremely Fine Condition Of This Unique And Historic World War I Era (1907) TROUGHTON & SIMMS Ministry Of Defence (MOD) Mark II, Trough (Plane Table or Declinator) Compass Coming In Its Custom Sliding Top Wood Protective Enclosure. With Its 1907 Origin, Perhaps It May Have Been Used By The British Army During World War I By The British Military For Surveying, Mapping, Aiming. It Comes In Its Custom Sliding Top Wood Protective Enclosure, The Metal Chamber Holding The Compass Displays A British Ministry Of Defence Arrow (Crow’s Foot) Mark. A Remarkable Military Survey & Field Engineering Tool.
Vintage Quality TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass MOD Mark II, Custom Wood Case
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COLLECTIBLE!!!
1907 (WWI ERA)
TROUGHTON & SIMMS
BRITISH MINISTRY OF DEFENCE (MOD)
TROUGH COMPASS
(PLANE TABLE COMPASS OR DECLINATOR)
Metal & Glass Enclosure
Mk II Type
Custom Sliding-Top Wood Case
"Premium Collectible In Great Condition"
No Reserve. Low Minimum. Priced To Sell.
This 1907 long needle
TROUGHTON & SIMMS
Trough Compass
(also known as a plane table compass or declinator),
is set into a full metal & glass enclosure with the pivoted magnetic needle. The two ends of the compass providing a small graduated scale range (5°) in one degree increments above and below a “zero” mark. The Mark II format is part of the navigational tools for determining the direction of true North.
Etched on its side, this
TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass
came into use in the 1907 making it possible that this device may have been used by the British Army during World War I. Stamped with the Ministry Of Defence "Crow's Foot/Arrow"
Mark, this plane compass properly operates with the long narrow magnetic
needle that “floats” on its jeweled bearing with pointing arrows at both ends pointing to the increments representing between plus/minus
5°. A locking mechanism is engaged when the sliding top cover is put onto the compass enclosure allowing a complete and safe storage this of this delicate mechanism while in storage and/or during movement.
Note that the enclosure has been designed to be air-tight as no dust is noted within the chamber thereby eliminating any degradation in its performance. This
TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass
displays a “
II”
designation that may be associated to its Mark II format
This type of trough compass is used for the marking of the Magnetic North on a surveyor/ engineer’s plane table and help in the orientation of the plane table or theodolite with respect to the magnetic north meridian.
NOTE ON CONDITION
eBay bidders who are interested in this
vintage
TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass
should be aware that this device may have been preserved without use for a long time and therefore in near-mint condition. Due to its historic value and present performance, no attempt has been made to clean the mechanism in any manner. The locking mechanism engages immediately in replacing the top of the wood storage box providing for the protection of the delicate compass spring mechanism. The compass seems to work
flawlessly.
All this input was taken into consideration in making appropriate value adjustments in setting the minimum bid amount for this auction.
eBay bidders are welcome and encouraged to fully examine all pictures and review this input before making any decision to participate in this auction.
This
TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass
itself is well preserved stored in its custom-made sliding-top wood reinforced box. Its top slide cover secures the trough compass its precision dimensions prevent movement within the box. There are some signs of its age which might be professionally cleaned by its new owner to enhance the appearance and overall eye appeal. The magnetic needle “floats” on its pivot and appears to work flawlessly. Note that the tight fitting of the trough compass into its storage container is purposely intended to help prevent damage resulting from the compass lateral movement within its container. Note that the wood box cover displays a Number “7” (See Picture). The metal casing both displays:
TROUGHTON & SIMMS
1907
In addition, there is a number
746
etched onto the outer chamber surface. The other side of the chamber displays the MOD
Arrow/Crow’s Foot along with the number
7
.
In summary, this very preserved
British Ministry Of Defence World War I TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass
is in superb near-mint condition but does show bits of its past usage and normal aging. This precision measurement tool would appear to have been definitely been used in a professional manner so certainly not abused in any way. Judging by its perceived vintage, this trough compass is definitely worthy of an examination of the multiple pictures in this listing to establish whether this older quality measurement tool would be a fantastic and very valued acquisition.
Using the valuation guides*, this vintage
TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass
is in extremely fine condition and might be graded at a
FINE
+
rating in accordance with the criteria:
FINE:
Tool is completely useable; metal is 90-100% and may have a trace of rust and some dark patina; wood 80% original or old finish, smooth surface and edges slightly rounded; minimal wear and no repair; maker’s marks, if present, are clear and easily legible.
NOTE:
Grading is an art and not an exact science thereby creating the need for sound judgment. To address the wide scope of possibility, most grading guides are purposely vague and somewhat subjective in nature.  Grading combines personal opinion, subject matter research, past experience, and knowledge to allow each individual a distinct perspective in assessing reasonable or acceptable condition. Value determination comes with the rarity, customization, existing item condition as derived from review of available pictures, questions to the seller, and study of pertinent reference materials. Multiple pictures taken at different angles and available lighting may offer the only possible visual overview of specific features along with the revelation of both the highlights and failings to support a sound decision whether to participate in this online auction.
BACKGROUND.
TROUGHTON & SIMMS
was a British scientific instrument firm with its origins in the instrument-making business begun in 1764 by John Troughton (1716-1788). This business was successively passed down first to nephews, John Troughton (1739-1807) and then to Edward Troughton (1756-1835). In 1826 Edward Troughton took on William Simms as partner Troughton & Simms began in business in London in 1826. Edward Troughton (1756-1835) had learned the trade from his father, John Troughton, a leading instrument maker in London; he also worked with his equally talented brother, also named John. William Simms (1793-1860) had a less distinguished pedigree, but proved to be an excellent craftsman and businessman. Under his leadership, Troughton & Simms manufactured mathematical instruments both large and small, and attracted customers around the world. It became a limited company in 1915 and in 1922 it merged with T. Cooke & Sons to form Cooke, Troughton & Simms.
* REFERENCES & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS:
HAND-BOOK AND ILLUSTRATED CATALOGUE OF THE Engineers’ and Surveyors’ INSTRUMENTS
by Buff & Berger,
A MANUAL OF AMERICAN ENGINEERS & SURVEYORS INSTRUMENTS – 21
st
Edition
by W. & L.E. Gurley,
General Catalogue Of Tools & Supplies
- BUCK & HICKMAN LIMITED,
Manual of Engineering Drawing: Technical Product Specification and Documentation to British and International Standards
by Colin H. Simmons,
Architectural Drawing, 2nd Edition
by David Dernie, and various Internet web sites to include:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Technical_drawing_tool, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compass_(drawing_tool)
Most of the dimensions and features/details of this vintage measurement device are shown in the pictures provided. The total shipping weight of this
TROUGHTON & SIMMS Trough Compass With Its Custom Sliding Top Storage Box
together with abundant protective packing materials will be approximately 13 ounces.
The United States Postal System (USPS) postage rate guidelines regarding the size, weight, dimensions, location of recipient and value; suggest that this parcel to be shipped to the eBay registered mailing address of the winning bidder using USPS First-Class Package Service – Retail Mail® Postage. Estimates of the postage cost are displayed in the listed Terms And Conditions. Please note that an invoice showing the total payment breakdown for the (1) winning auction bid, (2) State Tax if applicable, and (3) postage will be sent after the auction.
For the eBay Auction bidding winner located
outside the United States (US)
, the automated payment software will generate an United States
CUSTOMS DECLARATION FORM (CN22)
containing the eBay registered mailing address that will be used as the shipping label placed onto the envelope/packet/package.
Terms And Conditions
1.
This
auction item
is being auctioned "as is" with the East Coast Bits (ECB) description, condition, suggested evaluation/opinion along with the pictures as shown. Information presented in the listing description comes from combining ECB knowledge and expertise, consignor input, references, conferences with subject matter experts, and in-house research using available written material, and unrestricted accessible graphic and text information made available through the Internet. Often available written and online references are mentioned to provide the eBay bidder an opportunity, as desired, to review more information about the
auction item. To comply with eBay policy concerning the prevention of possible malicious intent, only the display of secure hypertext transfer protocol (HTTPS) links will be placed into the listing.
2.
ECB attempts to provide multiple photographs/pictures using different angles and directional lighting together with adequate descriptive text to assist the eBay bidder in making an informative decision before involvement. While this effort to describe all features/aspects is done in due diligence, it is rare but always possible that some flaw or fault might be missed in the initial assessment and description of this
auction item
. Note that some pictures may be numbered or identified to bring attention to some feature/detail or functional aspect of the
auction item
. Pictures of objects taken through plastic or glass can be difficult with reflected rays of light that may detract from the true coloring or cause the surface of an object to reflect the light source(s) or display aspects of the plastic/glass surface. ECB strongly encourages eBay bidders to review all the pictures and the auction item description to help create a satisfactory auction transaction. Questions about a description and/or specific picture(s) are always welcome.
3.
For a used
auction item
, wear and tear aspects that are described in the text and are displayed in the attached photos were the primary factors used by ECB to classify this item condition as pre-owned or used. The overall existing condition was then fully considered by ECB in making appropriate value adjustments in setting the minimum bid for this auction.
4.
Satisfaction guaranteed. Full refund privilege minus postage and insurance costs are possible if this
auction item
is returned within 30 days of receipt using the same manner of delivery, postage, and insurance as applicable. To help expedite this
auction item
return process, an explanatory email message to ECB for the requested return would be appreciated. This
auction item
along with any related original box/packaging will be expected to be in the same condition as sent.
5.
To help in making an informed decision about involvement, potential eBay bidders are encouraged to ask any questions about the description, references, pictures, postage, shipping arrangements, prior to bidding. Note that while ECB monitors all of its eBay listings to know whether a question has been received about an
auction item
in order to provide a full answer to all questions if possible, ECB may not be able to respond to all questions that are received just prior to the auction closing.
6.
eBay bidders are kindly encouraged
not to bid
if there is any cause for doubt, answers to questions have not been received or do not answer the question raised, or if there is a bidder refusal to accept any of the terms and conditions that are presented herein. In addition, eBay bidders are requested not to bid if there are not any financial means to pay for this
auction item
, postage, other postal services, and any associated insurance. As may become necessary, non-payment issues will be addressed using the established eBay Problem Resolution process.
7.
This
auction item
along with protective packaging materials are weighed and published in the auction listing. Total weight less than or equal to 13 ounces (oz) will be shipped to the eBay registered mailing address of the winning auction bidder from the United States (US) using the United States Postal Service (USPS) First-Class Package Service - Retail Postage. Packages weighing more than 14 oz are required to be shipped using USPS Priority Mail Service. For winning bids over , USPS Signature Confirmation Service may be added to the postage total.
8.
To assure the correct postage costs, the winning eBay bidder is advised to wait for the formal ECB generated eBay Auction Invoice that will include the total payment amount including the winning bid, State Tax, if applicable, and postage dependent on size and weight, insurance, other postal services, and any other costs as might be applicable. Costs for postage will be calculated using current United States Postal Service (USPS) rates as published and available from the USPS website.
9.
For deliveries within the US, the USPS postage, postal services, and any postal insurance costs will be based on both the envelope/packet/package weight and dimension limitations/restrictions along with the value of the
auction item
registered as the winning eBay Auction bid. If provided an opportunity for different delivery options, unless advised differently by the winning eBay bidder, ECB will attempt to use the lower cost postage as may be available.
10.
For deliveries outside the US, Airmail First Class Mail - International or Airmail First Class Mail - International plus Certificate Of Mailing service will be used. The USPS international postage and all other related costs will be calculated and listed on the eBay Auction Invoice. To ensure understanding of the total auction transaction costs, eBay bidders located outside of the US are encouraged to ask a question regarding the international postage and shipping charge to get the auction item to their location prior to bidding. Since international postage to different countries can vary widely due to many factors, there is a need to calculate postage on a case by case basis. International eBay bidders should indicate whether postal insurance for the auction item is desired.
11.
USPS postage costs for any special mailing situations will be calculated and indicated on the eBay Auction Invoice.
12.
ECB will abide by any/all mailing restrictions on certain items as posted by the country of the eBay bidder. International eBay bidders are advised to become completely informed about any/all restrictions that might apply to an auction item being shipped into their country. Also, international eBay bidders will understand that any/all customs fees, duties, and taxes imposed by their country will be directly handled by the winning eBay Auction bidder. eBay bidders are to be aware that predictions about delivery are subject to unknown factors beyond the control of ECB that may delay the delivery process. Furthermore, ECB cannot be held responsible for any delay or confiscation with this auction item being held by the Customs Officials of the country of the winning eBay bidder. Tracking of a shipment within the US is possible; specific tracking of a shipment outside the US is not possible by ECB.
13.
ECB subscribes to the online generation of labels available through the collaboration with eBay and the United States Postal Service to purchase USPS postage, other postal services, and insurance as necessary. Such practice generates a label with the winning eBay bidder mailing address registered with eBay along with an official USPS tracking number placed onto the eBay auction transaction. To avoid the possibility of delay and/or loss, eBay bidders are requested to make certain that  eBay has a current correct mailing address. In an unusual situation of a long complicated mailing address which cannot be printed onto an online label cannot be printed due to overall length, ECB may send an email message through eBay requesting whether a shorter mailing address may be available. ECB may send an email message through eBay for an English translation of a registered foreign address to help assure the correct processing of mail distribution and delivery.
14.
As a protective means to ensure delivery, the USPS Signature Delivery Confirmation service may be applied to the postage cost when the winning bid for an auction item is equal or over US Dollars. USPS Airmail First Class Mail International & Certificate Of Mailing will be automatically applied to the postage cost when the auction winning bid is equal or over 51 Euros or the equivalent currency of the country of the winning bidder. eBay bidders who may disagree with this delivery precaution are kindly requested
not to bid
on this auction item
.
15.
Without postal insurance, the winning eBay bidder accepts all risks associated with delivery to include the possible theft and/or damage. EBC will take all action to securely package and label the auction item but cannot accept responsibility for the secure delivery of this auction item or the replacement of winning eBay bidder funds. As may be necessary, ECB will provide the winning eBay bidder with any/all input that might help in the investigation/recovery of the lost/missing parcel to include the registered PayPal payment receipt and the USPS Tracking Number.
16.
Other mailing and postage/insurance options may be accommodated. The winning eBay bidder should contact ECB to coordinate any custom arrangement within 3 days of the auction closing date. Additional postage costs may apply. ECB will accommodate the need for shipment delay as desired with notification from the winning eBay bidder using the eBay messaging.
17.
The shipment of this auction item to any location outside the United States will require the preparation of a US Customs Declaration label on the envelope/packet/package. With the use of online postage labeling, the eBay program software will display the listing information on the label including the description of the auction item, weight, and the value as indicated by the winning bid amount. ECB is committed to abide by all stipulated U.S. International Regulations For Mailing. Any/all requests by the winning eBay bidder for any deviation from these published regulations and/or restrictions will be denied.
18.
The USPS postage rates are complicated based on the use of zones, calculated weight, and dimensions. Current USPS First Class Package Service - Retail postage cost
estimates
(May 2022) for delivery within the US for items under 13 ounces are indicated in the table below for consideration. Items over 13 ounces are required to be sent using USPS Priority Mail Service. eBay bidders located outside the US should review No.1
0.
Most items will fit be sent in a package; small items like coins, tokens, medals, et cetera will be sent in a smaller mailer envelope. ECB will assess eBay items like books, printed documents, et cetera and will determine indicate whether these can be sent using USPS Media rates. USPS Signature Confirmation Delivery Service (.20) may be applied to the postage cost when the winning bid for an auction item is equal or over US Dollars.
First Class Package Service - Retail  Postage Estimates (Bid < )
Weight
(Oz)
Winning Bid
1
.00
2
.00
3
.00
4
.00
5
.50
6
.50
7
.50
8
.50
9
.25
10
.25
11
.25
12
.25
13
.65
Weight
(Oz)
Winning Bid
19.
Priority Mail Service postage rates are difficult to estimate depending on destination, calculated weight, and dimensions. Priority Mail - Flat Rate Postage can be used when an
auction item
will fit into a designated USPS container. eBay bidders should review any specific mention of Priority Mail Service indication in the eBay Auction listing and wait for the final postage cost which will be indicated on the eBay generated invoice. eBay bidders located outside the US should review No.1
0.
20.
Combined postage costs for multiple purchases will be calculated and indicated on the eBay generated invoice.
21.
A payment using specified payment options per eBay guidance for the total auction transaction costs is desired. Winning eBay bidders should contact ECB prior to the auction closing to allow any consideration for acceptance of any other form of payment. Failure to make this contact will be the winning eBay bidder confirmation of acceptance to use eBay payment options for payment. ECB is controlled and will abide by the operational and financial aspects (as the Seller) as established by eBay. Per eBay guidance, the winning eBay bidder will be required to directly interact with eBay on questions regard any of the financial aspects (as the Buyer) of this transaction.
22.
The winning eBay bidder is requested to review the accuracy of the current eBay registered mailing address. Unless a different mailing address is identified and specified by the winning eBay bidder via an email message to ECB prior to shipment, the mailing address registered in eBay will be used.
ECB may send an email message through eBay for an English translation of a registered foreign address to help assure the correct processing of mail distribution and delivery.
23.
ECB will make every attempt to ship this auction item on the next business day after payment. If this shipment cannot be accomplished within this target 1-day schedule for whatever reason, ECB will notify the winning eBay bidder of the delay and provide some input as known about on the expected date of shipment. Note that delays are infrequent but can occasionally occur in acquiring appropriate and sufficient packing materials to provide suitable and adequate protection for the
auction item
during transportation and delivery.
24.
Payment through eBay payment options must fully clear before an
auction item
is sent in a secure manner using protective materials to help safeguard against if from any accidental damage during transportation and delivery.
25.
ECB will attempt to investigate and provide full and informative email communications about the shipping and delivery status of this transaction after the auction closing if not indicated through the automatic progress updates posted onto the eBay auction transaction.
ECB cannot track the delivery progress status outside the US.
26.
ECB may send a message through eBay to determine the reason for the lack of payment or communications with the eBay bidder within seven (7) days after the end of the auction. In addition, ECB may take action to coordinate with eBay to assist in the resolution of a non-payment matter.
27.
ECB will strive to make this bidding/buying experience to be both pleasant and acceptable in order to earn the satisfaction and the possible eBay bidder positive input to the ECB eBay profile. ECB will be very pleased to provide positive input to the winning eBay bidder profile as well.
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