WW2 German Kriegsmarine Kompassbünn SHIP BINNACLE COMPASS 1940 VERY RARE
The fluid dampened motion so the card stayed stable even in rough seas. Kriegsmarine helmsmen and navigators used it in conjunction with the gyrocompass and chart corrections to steer precise courses, maintain convoy formations, and align torpedo runs or gunfire bearings during operations at sea. They were used aboard German naval vessels such as destroyers, torpedo boats, and U-boats.
Made of brass and aluminum by C. Plath, Hamburg, this Binnacle Boat Compass is in EXCELLENT used condition!Dated 1940, it was manufactured for naval service during the early years of the war, and is 100% FUNCTIONAL! The compass still contains its original fluid, which is extremely uncommon, as most surviving examples have long since leaked or evaporated. The manufacture date, " 1940 ", as well as the Kriegsmarine property marking with the eagle over "M, " are both clearly visible on the upper ring of the compass.
Though the exterior was repainted in a bright blue color postwar (likely during an overhaul for continued use) ALL the internal mechanisms, bezel, and compass card remain entirely original to 1940! The original data plate is still attached, clearly indicating the make and model.The unit was later inspected, as evidenced by a Bundesmarine-style verification decal dated "1986, " indicating that it remained serviceable or in inventory well after the war. The compass card is fully suspended, responsive, and floats evenly under glass, with the fluid clear and the numerals and markings bright. The dome is free of cracks and sealed properly, and the original mounting flange is complete. Missing the upper cover, but those come up by themselves from time to time. I have shown a similar one in the last images.
Most comparable pieces have dried interiors, missing domes, or have replacement cards... This one remains complete, filled, and operational - PERFECT for any advanced naval, militaria, or instrument collection!