SHORT & MASON oak cased 'Stormoguide' barometer, 1952

The British company Short and Mason was highly renowned for its precision measuring instruments, supplying industry, academia and government for over 100 years. It also supplied scientific instruments to the Scott and Shackleton polar expeditions and Everest climbers.

This is a very fine example of their ‘Stormoguide’ barometer, produced for the domestic market in 1952 (the movement bears a pencilled date of 24 January 1952). The unique forecasting dial helps to determine the general weather outlook simply and with good accuracy for 6 to 18 hours in advance.

The 'Stormoguide' forecasting dial, often attributed to Short and Mason, was actually copyrighted by the American company Taylor Instruments in 1914 (Taylor used the brand name Tycos until 1932). In 1930 Short & Mason copyrighted the 'rising-falling' indicator, which was complementary to the Stormoguide's function. This was just one aspect of a long collaboration between the two companies, beginning in 1907 and leading ultimately to their merger in 1969.

The barometer features a 4 inch high quality aneroid movement, engraved and champagne enamelled steel dial, spun and lacquered brass bezel, silvered sight ring and thick bevelled glass. The impressive turned, solid oak case is strikingly figured and has an almost glass-like golden finish.

The barometer has been fully disassembled, serviced and cleaned and the case has been wax-polished. It is in excellent vintage condition with a few light marks consistent with careful use. The top of the brass bezel shows some discolouration due to degradation of the lacquer and there are a few rubs to the rear of the case (pictured), but these would not justify restoration.

 It is currently set to read pressure at sea-level but will be supplied with instructions on adjustment to local conditions and guidance on how to read the dial.

Dimensions

Dial diameter 5 inches (125mm); overall diameter 240mm; overall depth 57mm. Weight 1.5kg

SOLD

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