Pantochronometer by Samuel Porter, c.1840 Wood Dome-Cased Magnetic Dial

Antique Wooden Dome-Cased Sundial Compass. With original paper face plates, wooden tops, and functioning dials.  This 19th Century Pantochronometer, or magnetic dial, features a central compass and outer inscribed dial, with glazed cover & turned lidded Sycamore case. Circa 1840.

The term pantochronometer, was first used in the early 19th century by Charles Essex & Co. of Clerkenwell, London. This floating sundial compass was patented by the London instrument maker Samuel Porter in 1824, who referred to these instruments as 'Magnetic Dials', visible on the bases' label. 

This example features a turned wooden case and floating sundial compass card, incorporating a brass gnomon under a domed glass. Compass is in full working order.

Featured in the Science Museum London (#2).