Universal Equinoctial & Inclining Dials
A fine selection of antique horizontal inclining & universal equinoctial dials dating from the 18th to 19th century. Horizontal Sundial's were the predecessors of Equinoctial Dials. Featuring British, French, German, and American made sundials.
Horizontal Inclining Sundials
For use at varying latitudes- Adjustable from a base latitude.
circa 1791-1809
W. & S. Jones, London
Crafted by brothers William & Samuel Jones, apprentices of their optician father who built upon his work to become one of the renowned instrument makers of the early 19th century. It was the Jones' sextant that Meriwether Lewis & William Clark carried on their 1804-1806 expedition across America to the Pacific Ocean. Thomas Jefferson was a notable early client and close personal friend of William Jones, whose personal pieces are still housed in his Monticello estate.
Circa 1805-1819
Matthew Berge, London
Signed 'Berge, London'. Three footed compass with two glass bubble levels, locking needle, jeweled pivot. English made, early 19th century. Matthew Berge was foreman to esteemed Jesse Ramsden for over three decades.
circa 1836-1880
Thomas Mason, Dublin
Adjustable horizontal dial, base angle for gnomon is 60 degrees. Compass card has 8 cardinal directions, jeweled pivot, needle lock, dial graduated every 1 degree, quadrants every 10 degrees.
Universal Equinoctial Dials
For reliable & accurate use from any latitude on Earth (no base latitude).
Circa 1785
German, Unsigned
Weight: 4.2 oz.
Dimensions (Closed): 3" x 3" x 1"
Height (Open): 3.5"
Circa 1800
French, Unsigned
Showcasing a unique French Mahogony boxed Equinoctial Dial. Featuring a silvered compass face, blue steeled needle, with Ruby pivot, 8 cardinal directions, 1 degree increments- listed every 10 degrees. Folding center needle gnomom. Unsigned, circa 1800.
Circa 1885
Augsburg-Type, German
Showcasing a fine, late 19th century Augsburg-type encased German Equinoctial Sundial with levels, in original felt-lined leather box.
Weight: 12.3 oz.
Dimensions: 4.75” x 4.75” x 2.00”