Compass Buying Guide

We bridge the gap between history and modern adventure with our premium compass collection. Each compass in our selection is not just a tool but a testament to human ingenuity and the spirit of exploration. With our straightforward guide you’ll find the perfect compass for your needs.
Antique Compass
Our antique compasses are more than just tools, they’re pieces of history. Crafted in the late 18th and early 19th centuries, these compasses were essential for explorers charting unknown lands. Their aged brass and intricate engravings tell stories of the past, making them perfect for collectors and history enthusiasts alike.
- Use: Collecting, historical education
- Design: Classic, with aged brass and intricate engravings
- Origin: Late 18th to early 19th century
Robert Forest Masters Voice London 1920 Vintage Brass Antique Poem Compass
2. Marine Compass
Designed specifically for use at sea, marine compasses have been guiding sailors since the 14th century. With robust construction and waterproof casing, they’re built to withstand the harshest maritime conditions. The marine compass is an indispensable tool for anyone who feels the call of the ocean.
- Use: Sailing, marine navigation
- Design: Waterproof, robust for sea conditions
- Origin: Since the 14th century
3. Nautical Compass
Nautical compasses, often synonymous with marine compasses, are tailored for precision navigation on water. Their design incorporates features like gimbal suspension to ensure accuracy even in turbulent seas. Essential for both historical ships and modern yachts, a nautical compass is your companion in maritime adventure.
- Use: Marine navigation, boating
- Design: Engineered for precision and durability in maritime environments
- Specialty: Essential for sailors and boaters, designed to perform in dynamic sea conditions
Antique Brass-Silver Sundial Compass | Gilbert & Sons Style, Water Level | Engravable Wooden Box, Desk Decor & Collector’s Gift
4. Vintage Compass
Our vintage compass collection features pieces from the early to mid-20th century, each with its unique charm and story. These compasses combine functionality with the elegance of bygone eras, making them perfect for those who appreciate the aesthetics of the past.
- Use: Collection, decorative
- Design: Features designs from the early to mid-20th century
- Specialty: Combines functionality with historical elegance
5. Brunton Compass
Invented in 1894 by D.W. Brunton, the Brunton compass is a specialized instrument for geologists. Its precise measurements of magnetic declination and inclination make it indispensable for field surveys and mineral exploration. The Brunton compass is a testament to human curiosity and our desire to understand the Earth’s secrets.
- Use: Geology, surveying
- Design: Precision instrument for measuring magnetic declination
- Origin: Invented in 1894 by D.W. Brunton
Vintage Brass British WW2 Prismatic Compass
6. Prismatic Compass
The prismatic compass, developed in the 19th century, is prized for its accuracy in land navigation. Its unique prism sighting system allows for precise readings, making it a favorite among surveyors and military personnel.
- Use: Land navigation, surveying
- Design: Features a prism sighting system for accurate bearings
- Specialty: Favoured for its precision in navigation
7. Sundial Compass
Merging timekeeping with navigation, the sundial compass is a marvel of Renaissance engineering. By using the position of the sun, it not only provides direction but also estimates the time of day. It’s a piece of history that celebrates human ingenuity.
- Use: Direction finding, basic timekeeping
- Design: Combines sun dial and compass
- Origin: Renaissance era
Antique Brass Map Reader Spencer Compass | Magnifying Lens, Needle Stop | Vintage Cartography Tool & Collector’s Gift
8. Navigational Compass
Navigational compasses are designed for the precise determination of direction over long distances. Used extensively by explorers and pioneers throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, they were crucial for mapping the uncharted territories of the world.
- Use: Exploration, mapping
- Design: Designed for precise direction determination over long distances
- Specialty: Crucial for explorers and pioneers
9. Wrist Compass
The wrist compass offers convenience and accessibility, ideal for those who require both hands free while navigating. Popularized during World War II, it remains a practical choice for outdoor enthusiasts and military personnel.
- Use: Hands-free navigation, outdoor activities
- Design: Compact, wearable on the wrist for easy access
- Specialty: Ideal for hikers, runners, and anyone needing direction without having to stop or hold a compass in hand
Antique Brass Wrist Compass | Engraved Ship, Leather Strap, Vintage Nautical Style | Wearable Explorer Gift
Stanley London Black Antique Brass Compass | Engraved Poem, Handcrafted | Collector’s Pocket Gift
10. Poem Compass
A unique addition to our collection, the poem compass includes inspirational verses along with directional guidance. These compasses serve as a reminder that sometimes, our journey’s direction is as much about the heart as it is about the geography.
- Use: Inspirational, gift item
- Design: Includes inspirational verses along with directional guidance
- Specialty: A unique blend of poetry and practicality
11. Calendar Compass
The calendar compass integrates a calendar function, allowing users not only to find their direction but also to track the date. This dual functionality is particularly useful for long expeditions, where keeping track of time is essential.
- Use: Expedition planning, date tracking
- Design: Integrates a calendar with navigational features
- Specialty: Useful for long expeditions
Antique Brass Compass with 40-Year Calendar | Wooden Box, Handcrafted | Collector’s & Executive Gift
12. Gimbal Compass
The gimbal compass, with its double-axis suspension, ensures accuracy even when the base is tilting. Essential for aviation and marine navigation, it’s a tool that adapts to the challenges of moving vehicles.
- Use: Marine, aviation navigation
- Design: Features a double-axis suspension for stability
- Specialty: Ensures accuracy even when the base is moving