13 best brass compasses
Brass compasses are navigational instruments that use a magnetized needle to indicate the direction of the Earth's magnetic north pole. These compasses have a long history and are often associated with traditional and antique aesthetics. Here's what you need to know about brass compasses:
Materials and Aesthetics: Brass compasses are crafted from brass, a metal alloy that combines copper and zinc. They are known for their attractive appearance and timeless appeal. The use of brass gives them a classic and antique look, making them popular collector's items and decorative pieces.
Basic Function: The primary function of a brass compass is to provide a reliable indication of magnetic north. It consists of a magnetized needle (usually red or black) that is mounted on a pivot. The needle aligns itself with the Earth's magnetic field, pointing toward the magnetic north pole.
Components: Brass compasses typically feature a circular dial with degree markings, often ranging from 0 to 360 degrees, which allows users to determine their heading. Some compasses may also include additional features like a magnifying glass for reading maps, a clear acrylic base for map plotting, or a clinometer for measuring angles.
Use in Navigation: Brass compasses have been used for centuries by explorers, sailors, hikers, and outdoors enthusiasts to navigate and determine direction. They are particularly handy in situations where electronic or digital devices may not be reliable or available.
Collectible Items: Due to their historical significance and aesthetic appeal, brass compasses are often collected as antiques or decorative pieces.They can be found in various styles, including pocket-sized compasses, wrist compasses, and larger desk or marine compasses.
Maintenance: Brass compasses require some maintenance to ensure their accuracy. This may involve periodic adjustment to correct for any deviations from true north, as well as keeping the compass clean and free from debris.
Variations: While brass compasses are popular, compasses come in various materials, including plastic, aluminum, and stainless steel. Modern compasses may also feature advanced features such as illuminated dials or digital displays.
Orientation: When using a brass compass, it's essential to understand the difference between true north (the geographic North Pole) and magnetic north (the direction indicated by the compass needle). Depending on your location, there may be a significant difference between the two.
Brass compasses serve both practical and aesthetic purposes. They are valuable tools for navigation in outdoor and wilderness settings and are also appreciated for their historical significance and visual charm. Whether used for practical navigation or as a collector's item, brass compasses continue to hold a special place in the world of traditional and antique navigation instruments.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best brass compasses on the marketProduct description
Solid brass compass in Antique finish with stamped leather case. This engravable compass comes with Premium quality cow hide case that is stamped with compass rose. The compass can be engraved at a local engraver shop on top side, back of top side and the bottom. Under the glass of compass cover is a beautiful, detailed copper compass rose that is marked our brand name NEOVIVID. The high quality jeweled compass needle settles to North very quickly for timely and accurate readings. It has a small lever on the side of the compass that operates a needle lift mechanism to protect the compass bearing. Size-Compass: 2.5 x 2.5 x 0.75 inches, FINISH: Antiquated Brass.
- Brass compass with antique finish, detailed copper rose dial, real cow hide case and chain.
- The compass can be engraved at a local engraver shop on top side, back of top side and the bottom. You would receive the compass not engraved.
- Compass is 2.5 x 2.0 x 0.75 inches in size. Case is stamped with compass rose.
- Compass is working and makes a great gift for boy, husband, boyfriend, father, son, brother, groomsmen Engravable Compass, Pocket Compass, Brass Compass with Leather Case, Gift Compass, Fathers Day Gifts, Camping Compass
- Custom design/finish compass can be ordered directly to NEOVIVID.
Product description
The perfect gift for travelers (armchair or otherwise), our Antiqued Brass Poem Compass With Leather Case includes a cover with Robert Frost's famous poem "The Road Not Taken." This is a gift that will be cherished for generations. Brass and glass compass, leather case. Size: 2-1/2" dia. x 1"H.
- Leather
- Imported
- Antiqued Brass Poem Compass With Leather Case
- Engraved with Robert Frost's famous poem "The Road Not Taken"
- Brass and glass compass, leather case
- A gift that will be cherished for generations
User questions & answers
Question: | I love the compass, but it’s broken. How do I return it |
Answer: | Just go through the return process via Amazon. |
Question: | Does it glow in the dark |
Answer: | Thanks for the question. Our Antiqued Brass Poem Compass does not glow in the dark. - Wind & Weather Customer Service |
Question: | Hi, received it today. Love the look of it but it doesn't work. Supposed to work right |
Answer: | I bought 2 for my grand son to go with the pirates chest I made for the gss both work some people got the compass said the cover was.touching the needle causeing the compass not to work check that out see if that's the problem I hope this helps |
Question: | Will my compass be covered in mold |
Answer: | Mine came in with mold on it. The case and the compass look neat; however, mine did not work indoors and I did not take it outside. I would not recommend this item to anyone. |
Product description
BRAND-MAH Pocket Brass Compass is the best gift for your family and friends.100% Brand New with good quality. Size: - 4.8 cm - Dia x 1.5 cm - Thick (Compass) Size: - 9 cm - L x 6.4 cm W - 3 cm H (Wooden Box) Total Weight Approx.- 170 gms.
- Brass Compass is the best gift for your family and friends.
- 100% Brand New with good quality.
- Portable design, convenient to carry.
- Gift for some one you love.
- Made of Solid Brass.
User questions & answers
Question: | Do the seller engrave it if I ask for it |
Answer: | No,we can't engrave it as this product is stored on FBA.Thanks. |
Question: | Where is this made |
Answer: | China |
Question: | Is this compass liquid filled |
Answer: | No |
Question: | what are the dimensions are the actual compass |
Answer: | Sorry for late reply, Size:- 4.8cm - Dia x 1.5cm - Thick (Compass);Size:- 9cm - L x 6cm W - 3cm H (Wooden Box) Thanks. |
Product description
4" BRASS SUNDIAL COMPASS BY INDIA OVERSEAS TRADING CORP
- Brass Anchor .
- West London Etched on the Compass
- Compass Measures approx 4.25" in diameter .
User questions & answers
Question: | Product came with compass parts not attached - how do you attach the compass spinners |
Answer: | The answers dated April 2, 2016 and March 31, 2016 are all good answers. If your brass sundial compass components came out of the shipping container in more than one piece, ship it back. |
Question: | Does it come with a wooden display box |
Answer: | There was no box.. Kind of what made it special... |
Question: | Do you have a sundial/compass that can be worn on the wrist like a watch |
Answer: | https://smile.amazon.com/Vintage-Antique-Sundial-Nautical-Handmade/dp/B07DLWBWZ4/ref=sr_1_72_sspa?keywords=alethiometer&qid=1579306113&sr=8-72-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUExOEU4Nkc2T0FMMzk2JmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwODc5NTcwM0dBVUhVV0Q5NUFaUyZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMzc3NjEyMjBCREc5VVpQWE5XQyZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX210ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU= |
Question: | can you set the declination on the compass |
Answer: | The compass by which the three bolt is set Lavil Thanku |
Product features
Sundial Compass- India Overseas Trading Corp
Solid Brass Sundial Compass 4.5" in Diameter .
For bulk order contact India Overseas Trading Corp
Variety of compasses available .
- ✔ Antique look Handcrafted Vintage Brass Compass with Beautiful Rosewood box (80mm x 80mm x 40mm) / (3.14" x 3.14" x 1.57")
- ✔ The Compass Brass comes in a Rosewood Box which makes it a Perfect Gift for Travelers, Collector's or to your Friend or Relative Who loves Antique Collection
- ✔ Fully Hand-Crafted, Antique Compass with Copper Dial with paper chart in wooden box. It's a best Home Decor, Table decor, Trekking, Navy gift, Collectible's Gift
- ✔ Antique Nautical Compass is made of Premium Grade Brass, it's portable design make it convenient to carry
- ✔ A Complete Hancrafed Antique Nautical Decor Made in India, It's a long lasting Perfect Home, Office Decor Piece
User questions & answers
Question: | Does the compass come out of the box |
Answer: | No |
Product features
Handmade Antique Vintage Brass Compass in Rosewood Box
Antique look Vintage Brass Compass comes with a Wooden Box handcrafted case. Available in black and brown color.
Gift for someone you love.
Antique look
This item is of antique elegant design which could also be an addition to your home decor, restaurants and office.
Handcrafted Wooden Case - Black
Beautiful Antique Vintage Compass made of solid brass with a wooden case of very fine quality, this item can be gifted to loved one or to the collectibles lover.
Handcrafted Wooden Case - Brown
This antique vintage compass is manufactured to reflect the workmanship and materials of a more elegant bygone age.
A must-have vintage look compass.
Perfect Gift
An ideal gift for kids, youngsters and adults, loved by those with interest in -
- astronomy
- maritime
- nautical
- naval
- navigation
- royal
- sailor, and trekking.
- QUOTE ENGRAVED - With a famous quote by Thoreau: "Go confidently in the direction of your dreams! Live the life you've imagined”. Compass contain 100 Year Calender.
- CLASSIC MATERIAL FEATURE: Antique Brass Compass Ensures That The Mechanisms Inside Are Perfectly Protected While providing Elegance, Rugged Exterior And Corrosion Resistance Nature Makes the compass Long Lasting as well as Eye Pleasing. FINISH: The antique finish lends a timeless beauty that cannot be matched. Its Antique Finish Makes It An Ideal Item For Home Decor And Gift.
- IDEAL POCKET SIZE : This Camping Brass Compass is 2.0 inch in diameter which can be easily fit into your pocket therefore these compasses is also called as pocket compass.
- ACCURATE READING: This Compass Provides Accurate directional assistance. this compass can also be used for Camping, Hiking or Adventure Traveling. Perfect Sailors gift for men women, husband, wife, father and your navy friends.
- IMPRESSIVE UNIQUE GIFT: A Beautifully handcrafted and manufactured antique solid brass pocket compass with a rich, vintage patina finish. This Portable design pocket compass is convenient to carry. This Antique Brass Compass is valued as decorative objects, literary gift, and objects of mathematical study.
User questions & answers
Question: | Should I buy this for my son |
Answer: | Aside from being decorative, it is a good quality compass that works very well. It is definitely a perfect gift for son, husband, or boyfriend. |
Question: | Is the inscription customizable? Can it be changed from the current quote |
Answer: | Yes.. It Is Customizable.. If Customer Purchase It In Quantity..(More Then 10 Pcs) |
Question: | Does it contain the poem as engraved in the photos |
Answer: | Hi Richard, the answer is Yes!! It does contain the poem as pictured on the inside lid. The item is very nice. I am a Sherlockian and I belong to The Agra Treasurers, a Sherlock Holmes Society. I am always looking for items about Holmes and this item is very very nice. Happy Sleuthing, Marcy |
Question: | Does the compass really work |
Answer: | Hello..Yes Sir..Compass Is In Fully Working Condition..We Guarantee For Needle's Magnet It Will Work Endless... |
Product features
CRAFTED WITH HIGH-QUALITY MATERIAL
Sailor’s Art Compass is made from Solid Brass Metal With A Handcrafted Sheesham Wooden Box. Antique Brass Compass Ensures That the Mechanisms Inside are perfectly protected while providing elegance, rugged exterior and corrosion resistance nature makes the compass long lasting as well as eye pleasing. The antique finish lends a timeless beauty that cannot be matched.
ACCURATE READING
This Compass Provides Accurate directional assistance. this compass can also be used for Camping, Hiking or Adventure Traveling. Perfect Sailors gift for men women, husband, wife, father and your navy friends.
ENGRAVED WITH QUOTES
Example of Quote:
Thoreou's: “All Those who Wander are not lost"
The perfect Size Compass Is designed To Take Along With You Wherever You Go.
Product description
Compass
- Be Strong And Courageous Engraved Compass, Confirmation Gift Ideas, Baptism Gifts.
- Perfect gift for any occasion: birthday gift, baptism gift, Mother's day gift and Father's day gift, Duty to God award, missionary gift, Baptizm gifts, confirmation gift.
- The high quality jewelled compass needle settles to North very quickly for timely and accurate readings.
- Manufactured by Roorkee Instruments
- The Perfect Gift for Travelers, Nautical Collector's and Table Decor.
User questions & answers
Question: | Please. Are any of the compasses you sell liquid filled? Thank you |
Answer: | Noodler's is 3 ounces or 90 mls. So this bottle is 2/3 the size. Per ounce the Parker is cheaper. |
Question: | Does the Case have a loop for belt |
Answer: | There are three Parker Quinks; Blue, Black and Blue-Black. The answer to your question is No, No and Sort Of. The first two, blue and black, are washable inks, meaning they can be washed out of clothing that gets stained by those inks. The last one, blue-black, is a permanent ink. However, in this case Parker does not mean "waterproof on paper" it means that the ink will permanently stain any clothing it gets on. Which also means that it will stain paper and remain legible to some degree if the paper gets wet. So no, these inks are not actually what you would call "waterproof" and the blue-black Quink is as close as Parker gets to that. |
Question: | Is this real brass |
Answer: | Recommend the Parker Deluxe Ink Converter (5638200) instead of the cheaper converters that come with some if their pens. Have this converter and no problems in my "Urban" to date. Best of luck! |
Question: | Does the Compass come with a case |
Answer: | Parker's Ink works with All Parker pen :) However, Parker "Black" is not black at all. ( It is grey green, dark green. Anyway it is kind of strange color...)spend a bit bucks more to buy a bottle of Pelikan or Lamy Black, they will be a better choice. If you want the ink to be bulletproof and really really black, buy a bottle of Noodler's Old Manhattan Black. |
Product description
Authentic Vintage Style Brass Pocket Compass With Leather Case Compass Size : 2.5 Inches
- Authentic Vintage Style Brass Pocket Compass With Leather Case
- Finish : Antique Brass
- Compass Size : 2.5 Inches
- Case Size : 3 Inches
- Primary Material : Brass
User questions & answers
Question: | Does the case hook onto a belt |
Answer: | Yes, it comes with a chord that you can plug into the wall. |
Question: | what is written on the top |
Answer: | I never used the old version, but I love this version, |
Question: | My compass is broken. isn't it supposed to work? there is tiny broken pieces of glass inside |
Answer: | On the side near the top there are a couple indentations in the plastic. These didn't help much in opening the lid. So, I just carefully wedged my fingernails between the top piece and the body of the sharpener, giving it a few wiggles and PRESTO... it opened. Be careful also when replacing the top piece - it has 2 delicate prongs that only fit one way. |
Question: | Is that a reproduction |
Answer: | It's not a popcorn maker it's a pencil sharpener |
Product description
Robert Frost Poem Engraved Brass Compass with Embossed Needle & with Case. Gift for someone you love. Engraved message of the Compass. The high quality jeweled compass needle settles to North very quickly. ''The Road not taken two roads diverged in a yellow wood, And sorry I could not travel both And be one traveler, long I stood And looked down one as far as I could to where it bent in the undergrowth; Then took the other, as just as fair, And having perhaps the better claim because it was grassy and wanted wear, Though as for that the passing there Had worn them really about the same, And both that morning equally lay In leaves no step had trodden black. Oh, I marked the first for another day! Yet knowing how way leads on to way I doubted if I should ever come back. I shall be telling this with a sigh somewhere ages and ages hence: Two roads diverged in a wood and I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference Size:- 7cm - Dia x 2cm - Thick (Compass) Size:- 8.5cm - L x 3cm - H x 8.5 - W (Case) Total Weight- 250 gm. BRAND-MAH
- Robert Frost Poem Engraved Brass Compass with Embossed Needle & with Case
- Brass Compass is the best gift for your family and friends.100% Brand New and high quality.
- Portable design, convenient to carry, Made of Solid Brass,Gift for some one you love.
- Size:- 7cm - Dia x 2cm - Thick (Compass) Finish- Bronze
- Size:- 8.5cm - L x 3cm - H x 8.5 - W (Case) Total Weight- 250 gms.
User questions & answers
Question: | Is it engravable |
Answer: | Sorry for late reply.Yes you can engrave yourself on the back side of the compass. Thanks. |
Question: | Is it possible to get this compass without the engraving |
Answer: | Sorry It's not possible, This asin is store in FBA (USA) |
Question: | Can I order without the poem |
Answer: | No |
Question: | Is the face of the compass glass or plastic |
Answer: | Glass. |
- PROFESSIONAL GRADE COMPASSES: Our MecArmy compass performs flawlessly in temperatures ranging from -10° F to 120° F; Waterproof IPX5; Ideal for camping, military usage, emergencies, and anywhere the beaten track takes you, with the professional compass survival is more likely.
- HIGH SENSITIVITY: The exquisite portable compass is made of available in either TC4 titanium & brass, uses special encapsulation technology to improve the sensitivity and precision. This brass compass is the top quality pocket compass on the market, it performs flawlessly in extreme temperatures.
- FLUORESCENCE: The compass’ interface glows in the dark( please put it under light or sunshine 1~3 mins), so even when night falls, you can read at any time, max runtime up to 1 hours.
- MINI SIZE: Teardrop shaped design of navigation compass, D type key ring makes it convenient to match accessories; Length:27.45mm/1.08in; Width:22.5mm/0.886in; High:8.6mm/0.34in; Weight:9g/0.32oz.
- MULTI USE: Hand held compass can be used as a hiking compass, camping compass, backpacking compass, hunting compass, youth scout compass, boat compass and orienteering compass. Right direction.
User questions & answers
Question: | Is this liquid filled or jeweled |
Answer: | Not liquid filled, it’s encapsulation technology. |
Question: | Is it fluid filled |
Answer: | Yes it is. |
Question: | Is the unit filled with oil |
Answer: | No, it’s encapsulation technology |
Question: | Is this truly waterproof? Or just resistant |
Answer: | Yes, waterproof IPX5. |
Product features
PROFESSIONAL GRADE COMPASSES
The working temperature of MecArmy compass is -26° C to +48° C / -10° F to 120° F, ensured the liquid does not freeze or produce bubbles inside.
WATERPROOF IPX5
IPX5 waterproof compass allows navigate up to 98 feet deep without water damage.
Durable
A hiking compass for hiking must be durable. To ensure durability, our MecArmy compass has an anodized brassy metal/titanium housing, and is proofed to resist harmful conditions, such as sand particles or being emerged in water.
Parameter:
Material: Titanium & Brass
Length: 27.45mm/1.08in
Width:22.5mm/ 0.886in
High:8.6mm/ 0.34in
Weight:9g/ 0.32oz
Feature:Titanium & Brass, Compass
Accessory:Beaded chain
- Teardrop shaped design, fluorescence- glow in the dark, max runtime up to 6 hours
- Use special encapsulation, technology to give high sensitivity
- Free beaded chain, may be worn as a pendant
- Length: 27.45mm / 1.08in Width: 22.5mm / 0.886in High: 8.6mm / 0.34in Weight: 9g / 0.32oz
- Mini size , Designed for everyday carry
User questions & answers
Question: | Is the cover glass of plastic |
Answer: | Dear customer, Thank you for your question. The material is TC4 Titaninum with cover glass If you need anything,please feel free to contact me. Sincerely yours, SkyBen.Trade Customer Service Team |
Question: | Is this solid brass or just coated? Like their flashlight its only coated |
Answer: | It looks to be solid brass and feels so from the weight. There are some shallow trammel holes in the back, probably used in assembly, that show brass to the bottom. Nice little compass - has been on my keychain for six months or more and works great. |
Product features
MecArmy CMP waterproof EDC compass, designed for everyday carry with chain, max runtime up to 6 hours
Ultra compact and lightweight ,high sensitivity compass, best choice for hiking, camping, military and navigation activities
- Pocket compass design, beautiful style, compact and portable.
- Outdoor camping compass scale is clear and the pointer is very accurate.
- High quality metal case, the mirror-finished surface is smooth and bright and looks very good.
- Ideal for hiking, camping and outdoor activities, it is a great gift for friends, kids, and families.
- Kindly remind that please place the compass on a horizontal level to make it work correctly, and make it stay away from other magnetic objects that may disturb it's function.
User questions & answers
Question: | Just wondering what size is it |
Answer: | Yes, it can sharpen hard charcoal and pastel pencils. But this heavy duty pencil sharpener is not for soft lead pencils. Thank you. |
Question: | What material is inside it |
Answer: | The gears are metal, it is a well built sharpener. I took it apart just to see what was inside and to my surprise it was pretty rigid |
Question: | I am a compass novice, so maybe I'm doing something wrong, but when I am facing east the compass is pointing west, and vice versa. Is it me |
Answer: | This heavy duty pencil sharpener has 2 years warranty from the purchase date. If you have any questions, please contact [email protected]. |
Question: | This does not appear to be a copper case as stated. What is it made of? Is there dampening oil in case |
Answer: | If broken leads get stuck in the blade, you can pull out the shavings box and use a metal pin to get rid of the broken lead. Thank you. |
Product description
Handmade Brass Push Open Compass On Chain With Leather Case, Pocket Compass For Hiking And Camping · Handmade Brass Push Open Pocket Watch Style Compass On Chain With Leather Case For Hiking And Camping · Compass is made in brass with polished brass finish and the case is real cowhide. Rose dial is copper. · Size of compass is 1.8 inches approx and weighs 2.5 ounces without chain and case. Chain is 12 inches in length. · Could be carried easily in pocket or worn as a necklace. Also makes a great gift for kids and party favors. · Handmade product, not sold as antique. Brass Pocket Compass For Camping, Hiking, Gifting, Boy Scouts Compass PRODUCT DESCRIPTION 1.8 Inches Brass Push Open Compass On Chain With Leather Case, Pocket Compass For Hiking And Camping A beautiful Solid Brass Nautical Directional Pocket Compass with detail copper rose dial. This functioning brass face pocket compass with polished brass finish has a spring loaded protective cover that opens easily. The compass comes with chain and real leather case. Gift it to your kids as a learning tool or use it to navigate while hiking or camping. Compasses have been used for years to help travelers determine their location as well as the location of their destination. Used while hunting, camping, hiking or working, the compass can be a lost individual's most prized possession. Product Dimensions : 1.9 x 2.5 x 0.5 inches Item Weight : 4.6 ounces Shipping Weight : 4.6 ounces PACKING Utmost care is taken in packing the material, so that the item reaches the customer in its original shape.
- Handmade Brass Push Open Compass On Chain With Leather Case, Pocket Compass For Hiking And Camping
- 1.8 Inches Brass Push Open Compass On Chain With Leather Case, Pocket Compass For Hiking And Camping A beautiful Solid Brass Nautical Directional Pocket Compass with detail copper rose dial.
- This functioning brass face pocket compass with polished brass finish has a spring loaded protective cover that opens easily. The compass comes with chain and real leather case. Gift it to your kids as a learning tool or use it to navigate while hiking or camping.
- Compass is made in brass with polished brass finish and the case is real cowhide. Rose dial is copper. · Size of compass is 1.8 inches approx and weighs 2.5 ounces without chain and case. Chain is 12 inches in length.
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