A subject not yet finished March 2023
Best Lancashire Black Wing Compass. This Compass started life prior to 1862, when it had no number, but was available in 5″-12″ lengths. In 1877 it was ascribed the number 1064. and by 1897, under Item # 1234 it was available from 4″ to 12″ and similarly in a ‘Bright‘ version #1233. By 1903 the number had changed to #6460 and the ‘Bright‘ version as #6462. but now in lengths 5″-12″. The 1909 Catalogue shows the same listings. The 1921 shows the same listing of #6460, but no ‘Bright‘ option is mentioned. The 1928 and 1938 Catalogues show exactly the same listings as in 1921.
In the 1959 Catalogue is shown an expanded range of 5,6,7,8,9,10,12,14,16,and 18″. And this is the photo shown below.
By 1965 the range was reduced to just 6,7,8,10 and 12″. By 1971 there is shown a re-design of the Compass, but only now listed with 8″ and 10″ sizes. Photo below. Note the change in the securing of the Wing.
Below are a couple of images of a 6″ Best Lancashire Wing Compass, obviously prior to 1971.
