Before the new electronic position
finders were invented, only the skill of the ships officers
could be relied upon to navigate vessels around the world.
The two most important instruments were the sextant and chronometer,
and over 200 years only minor changes were made to improve
them. Other collectable instruments include barometers, rangefinders,
star globes, astro and positioning plotters, compasses including
a land compass (using the sun dial principle), draft indicators,
and these together with a range of old charts and navigational
tables are all in stock.
Prices vary of course, but sextants are between £225 and £685
depending on age and maker. |
