Victorian Officer's Sighting Compass by Elliott

A very nice quality c1860 Victorian Sighting Compass made by the Elliott Brothers of the Strand London.

Of brass construction with a pale green rotating card dial marked with the points of the compass, and all set under a lead crystal glass.

The Compass is in very nice condition. The underside has the original owner’s name M.C. Spottiswoode. The top has a separate cover for protection. There is a folding prism and sighting point. The latter has a thin wire to take accurate measurements. Prism sight locking bracket at fault.

Complete with its original leather case with regimental crest and twice marked with his initials. Closure strap is broken but neck strap intact.

Research extracts from the London Gazette of 1872 show Molyneux Capel Spottiswoode to have served with the 53 Foot and not the 43 suggesting the Compass later changed hands with the service.

Elliott Brothers, of London, were active and made this instrument between 1854 and 1865.

Size folded: 7.5 x 9.5 x 2.2 cm (3 x 3 ¾ x 7/8 inches)