Compass-adjusting kit

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This compass-adjusting kit dates from the 19th century when iron ships affected the direction of compasses over time. It is signed by J. Hogg of Leith, but it is likely that it was manufactured in the English Midlands or London.

The compass-adjusting kit includes a brass disc with engraved degree scales. The disc is mounted in holder with an engraved sailing direction line. The kit was used to assess the direction of the compass in iron ships, which could then be corrected.

The port of Leith, with its maritime outlook, meant that ship's fittings and instruments were sold there from an early date.

Record details

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• Online ID: 000-100-102-726-C
• Image Rights Holder: National Museums Scotland
• Project: National Museums Scotland
  Project description   View all records in project
• Ref: National Museums Scotland  T.1974.100 B
• Date: 19th century
  19th century
  
• Material: Inscription: A.M. P.M. J.G. J.G.
  Plated brass disc / wooden box. Inscription: J. HOGG, LEITH
  Nautical sighting instrument / box
  Nautical sighting instrument / box
  
• Dimensions: 190 mm x 150 mm x 90 mm
  380 mm x 230 mm x 150 mm
  
• What: Nautical sighting instrument / box
  Nautical sighting instrument / box
  
• Subject: 9. NAVIGATION (Departmental Classification)
  9. NAVIGATION (Departmental Classification)
  
• Who: J. Hogg (Inscribed on the instrument)
  J. Hogg, Leith, Midlothian (Maker)
  J. Hogg, Leith, Midlothian (Maker)
  
• Where: ENGLAND
  ENGLAND
  Scotland, Midlothian, Edinburgh, Leith
  Scotland, Midlothian, Leith
  Scotland, Midlothian, Leith
  
• Event:
• Description: Nautical sighting instrument contained with a number of other parts in a wooden box, signed by J. Hogg, Leith, 19th century
  Nautical sighting instrument contained in a box, signed by J. Hogg of Leith, 19th century
  
• References:
  • Clarke, T.N., Morrison-Low, A.D. & Simpson, A.D.C. Brass & glass scientific instrument making workshops in Scotland as illustrated by instruments from the Arthur Frank Collection at the Royal Museum of Scotland. Edinburgh: NMS, 1989. pp 104-5 
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