An uncommon compass By T. H. Randolph Cincinnati, with auxiliary sight vanes that attach to the common sight vanes, which according to the 1875 Randolph Catalogue could be used for certain leveling purposes. The compass also comes with a chain counter.

The side vanes used for leveling are very cool. Take a look at the pic below showing the degree markings on the vanes. One of the vanes is marked plus or minus 10 degrees, in one degree increments. Maybe a surveyor could estimate to every 10 or 15 minutes. That wouldn't be good enough for railroad work, but it would probably be good enough for many purposes. The rarely seen extra vanes make this a much more intriguing instrument, and explain why Dale added this compass to his personal collection.

The compass has a bent needle lifter thumbscrew - as you can see on one of the Spinners. The needle lifter still seems to work fine, however.

The box identifies a prior owner. G. H. Davis, Olney. I did a quick search for the prior owner, but nothing popped up. Maybe you will have better luck that I did.

The box lid label reflects an address that appears to be pre-1880. The 67 West Street address is reflected on Randolph's 1875 Catalogue but not his 1880 Catalogue.

Please see my Randolph Maker Webpage for more information regarding Randolph (including some of his catalogues).

Dale had previously offered this compass for sale at $1850. Dale gave me a good deal on this compass, so I can drop the price to $1650.