Collections Item Detail

DescriptionAneroid surveying barometer, watch pattern, probably model no. 5855, sold by Keuffel & Esser Co., N.Y., no date, circa 1920-1940. Gold finish metal case, 1/3/4" diameter; silvered dial; revolving altitude scale (bezel) 3000 feet; compensated for temperature. "Made in England" as stated on dial. Morroco case as listed in catalogue not present. The model number is not found on the item and is interpolated from its diameter and the catalogue descriptions and depictions of the various barometers found in the 35th, 36th and 37th edition catalogues. This item was the smallest of its type that K&E offered. While the dial markings are those of the larger diameter 5880 (2-3/4") rather than the 5855, it is not considered significant as K&E catalog illustrations are often different that the actual item. It is listed as "For Measuring Altitude and Atmospheric Pressure." Could be considered as a type of altimeter although it has markings on for weather - 'Rain', 'Fair.' Item has not been calibrated or checked for accuracy by the museum. Keuffel & Esser Co. main office and factories were in Hoboken in the period when this item was offered. It is a typical example of an imported product sold by them.