Waltham Vintage Brass Pocket Compass with Cover
Waltham · Collectibles & Antiques > Vintage Scientific Instruments
Era / Decade
Mid-20th Century (circa 1940s-1950s), indicated by the font style, brass patina, and classic military-style hunter case design.
Material
Brass case with glass crystal face and paper/card dial.
Condition
Good. The brass casing shows natural age-related patina and minor surface scuffs. The dial face has some yellowing and slight staining, but the text and numbers remain legible. The hinge and cover mechanism appear functional.
Demand Level
Moderate. Steady demand from antique collectors, vintage decor enthusiasts, and hikers looking for classic mechanical gear.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$35 - $60 - $90
Estimated Retail Value
Unknown / Historical item, estimated original retail value in its era would be nominal, but modern equivalent quality brass pocket compasses range from $50 to $100.
Comparable Sales
Similar vintage brass pocket compasses by Waltham or comparable makers (like Taylor or Keuffel & Esser) typically sell between $40 and $75 on eBay depending on working condition and cosmetic preservation.
Description
Vintage Waltham pocket compass housed in a round brass hunter-style case with a hinged protective lid and top loop for a chain or fob. Features a paper dial face with a 360-degree scale marked in 20-degree increments, cardinal directions (N, E, S, W), and the Waltham brand name printed above the center. Compact size, ideal for collectors of vintage nautical or military gear.
Key Features
Recognizable Waltham brand name, classic brass hunter case with hinged lid, desirable vintage aesthetic for nautical and steampunk decor, portable pocket size.
Authenticity Indicators
Clear Waltham maker's mark on the dial face, traditional period-accurate brass construction and font typography. Confidence level: High.
Flaws to Note
Patina and minor oxidation spots on the brass case, yellowing and minor staining on the paper compass dial face, minor surface wear consistent with age and handling.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
eBay and Etsy are the best platforms for vintage scientific instruments and collectibles due to the targeted collector audience.
Selling Tips
Highlight the Waltham brand name prominently in the title and description. Take clear, well-lit macro photographs of the dial face and maker's mark. Test to ensure the needle points North and state whether it is fully functional in the listing. Ship securely in a small box with bubble wrap.