September 15, 16, & 17, 2026 Firearms & Militaria
The live portion of this session begins on Wednesday, September 16, 2026.
Lot #2043:
IMPORTANT MID-18TH CENTURY ENGLISH COMPASS AND SUNDIAL BY DOLLAND WITH CASE.
A rare, original compass sundial with its original pocket case by Dollond, London, circa 1750-1800. Often referred to as the “portable universal compass sundial,” this incorporates both a compass and a sundial to determine the time of day at any given latitude and was an instrument widely used by travelers, surveyors, and explorers. Made and marked by Dollond of London, the premiere British optical instrument maker for about 150 years, founded in 1750 by Peter Dollond (1731-1820) and joined by his father, brother, and nephew. All parts are present and working. The original hinged, velvet lined leatherette case is with it. Brass and steel construction, with folding gnomon on hinged circular base marked with hours of the day in Roman numerals and “Dollond London” in script, set over a hinged arc marked with degrees of latitude. Three screw-adjusted legs on side of the instrument level it, guided by two spirit levels inside the instrument and visible from the top. The magnetic compass is then used to determine true north and the gnomon raised and aligned to it. The circular base of the gnomon is then tilted upward to align with the proper degree of latitude as marked on the hinged arc side bar, which has been raised upright on one side of the case. The shadow cast by the gnomon on the Roman numeral marked rim of the compass then indicates the solar time of day for that location. The Dollond family was renowned for innovation and invention, holding several patents. Their optical instruments were used by many of the most famous British seamen and explorers including Captain Cook and Lord Nelson. These compass sundials have been widely reproduced as decorative items. This is a very scarce original. CONDITION: Excellent. The instrument is complete and functional with no bends, breaks, or repairs. The case shows a wear spot on the upper edge of the bottom on the exterior and a separation line along the bottom edge. The velvet lining shows a color shift to brown, wear to the nap around the edges and some wear through the lining at center. Hinge and hook fasteners are intact.
Item Dimensions: 7" x 7" x 7"