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 1810
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.
Featured in Harvard University (Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments)
circa 1808-1813
Thomas Mason, Dublin
Encased in original embossed, hand-stitched leather case. Irish made by Thomas Mason (served as Optician to His Excellency the Lord Lieutenant). A very rare individually signed piece from a dynasty of renowned opticians.
Later model featured in Harvard University (Collection of Historical Scientific Instruments)
Universal Equinoctial Dials
For reliable & accurate use from any latitude on Earth (no base latitude).
Circa 1785
German Universal Equinoctial Sundial
Intended for -7 degree magnetic variation, this dial was likely made for a Polish audience, functioning best near Warsaw.
Features 2 latching hooks, original glass, blued-steel needle on Ruby pivot, locking bar, graduated equinoctial ring, compass card, & collapsing latitude scale.
Circa 1800
French Universal Equinoctial Sundial
Unique French Mahogany boxed Equinoctial Dial with half-blued steel needle on Ruby pivot. Silvered brass equinoctial ring. 'O' on East indicates likely German or French origin. Interesting for its relatively larger size
Circa 1885
German Augsburg-Type Universal Dial
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”
Circa 1890
London Polaris Equinoctial Sundial
This London Polaris Equinoctial Sundial by Frank Morrison. American made. Patent No. 2559. The base is signed London Polaris Frank Morrison, Cleveland O. Patent No. 2559.