FROM THE DALE BEEKS COLLECTION

I really like this Isaac Chandlee Vernier Compass. It has a very nice compass face, but what really makes this compass special is how Chandlee incorporated the vernier scale into the North arm of the Mainplate. The asymmetrical look to the compass really appeals to my eye. Plus the compass is dated - I really like dated compasses.

The wood box is really neat too, and the compass and box make for a wonderful display. A warning about the box though - it has shrunk a bit over 220 years. The compass is a VERY right fit - nearly impossible to remove if it sinks into the box much. There is a way to put the compass in the box without getting stuck, but the lid won’t fit because the compass has to ride up high in the box.

Some info on Isaac:

Isaac Chandlee was born in Nottingham on September 12, 1760, the son of Benjamin Chandlee, Junior. He died, unmarried, in Nottingham on December 10, 1813. Isaac was Goldsmith Chandlee’s younger brother (by 9 years).

Isaac is not as famous as his older brother but Isaac produced some really nice compasses.

I think the Isaac Chandlee would make for a wonderful display - both the compass and the box. Not surprising that this special compass was part of Dale's collection.

You can read more about Isaac and see some other examples of his work at my Isaac Chandlee Makers Webpage.