Collections Item Detail
Compass, Hutchinson's prismatic, model 5411 S, made by Keuffel & Esser Co., N.Y., n.d. ca. 1920-1940.
Object/Artifact
Hutchinson's prismatic compass, model 5411(5411 S with leather case) made by Keuffel & Esser Co., New York, no date, 1920-1940. Metal (bronzed / black) case with nearly enclosed top; glass window to compass dial; 3" diameter compass body (4-1/8" wide with prism eyepiece closed) x 3-3/8" high with sight vane open (1" high when closed.) With: original sewn dark tan leather case with strap top (described in catalogue as sling case: sling as depicted in catalog is not present); blue velvet lining. Missing: printed instructions; sling strap as stated.
Prior to the 36th edition catalogue of 1921, the size of this compass was given as 2" diameter. It is first listed as 3 inches in the 1921 catalogue and is found up to the 38 edition catalogue of 1936.
Model name or number does not appear on the object. Top of compass case is marked: "Keuffel & Esser Co. | New York." Bottom is marked with number: 11614 (serial number?) Case is blindstamped on front with the circular K&E logo.
K&E had their main office and factories in Hoboken when this item was made.
2009.001.0050
2009.001
Purchase
Purchase
Museum Collections.
1956 - 1962
Date: 1956-1962
Good
Status: OK Status By: dw Status Date: 2009-11-12