Antiques, Estate & Job Lot Auction – 14 October 2026

Antiques, Estate & Job Lot Auction – 14 October 2026

Catalogue

Lot 783: Antique Brass Vernier Surveyor's Compass by Alex Mabon & Sons, Glasgow?

Live auction will start in __ days and __ hours

Start price: £10

Estimated price: £20 - £40

Buyer's Premium: 18%

A large-format surveying compass? / circumferentor constructed from patinated brass. The instrument features a central dial plate and a rotating alidade arm fitted with two vernier scales to allow for precise readings against the outer degree ring. The outer ring is graduated from 0 to 360 degrees in single-unit increments, with cardinal points marked; a large N is visible at the north position and a W at the west. The dial face is engraved with the literal transcription ALEX. MABON & SONS above GLASGOW. Set into the brass dial plate are two circular spirit levels for horizontal alignment. The instrument is equipped with two folding brass sighting vanes and a substantial mounting assembly to the underside, featuring a threaded collar and adjustable levelling screws. The magnetic needle and protective glass cover are absent.