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Highly scarce, authentic 18th-century turned boxwood pocket compass crafted by the master instrument maker Peter Höchel (Hoechel) of Nuremberg, Germany, dating to circa 1750–1790.This museum-quality piece features an exceptionally well-preserved hand-colored copperplate engraving on a paper dial, complete with the traditional German cardinal directions, including \"O\" for Ost (East). Directly below the South (\"S\") marker sits the distinct, authentic \"P.H.\" maker\'s cartouche stamp, solidifying its provenance and historical value.Key Features & Collector Points:
Maker: Peter Höchel (active mid-to-late 18th century, Nuremberg) — Signed \"P.H.\" on the dial.
Dial Details: Hand-colored 32-point compass rose with a beautifully stylized Fleur-de-lis indicating North (\"N\"). Features traditional German markings (N, O, S, W) and a graduated outer degree ring.Casing & Craftsmanship: Exceptional \"Turnwood\" artistry. The exterior of the boxwood lid features a prominent central lathe spindle mark (\"top knot\") surrounded by beautiful, deeply aged concentric circular turning rings. This provides clear physical evidence of authentic 18th-century hand-turned craftsmanship.Lid Mechanics: The original friction-fit lid remains remarkably strong, precise, and well-seated. It pulls away smoothly but holds a tight enough seal that you can lift the compass entirely by the lid without it separating, showing exceptional wood integrity with zero warping over the centuries.
Needle: Features its original wire-mounted blued-steel compass needle sitting on a central brass pivot.Condition Report:
This antique instrument is in remarkable, functional condition given its 230+ year age. The wood case is incredibly solid with no major structural splits, repairs, or cracks on the top, bottom, or rims, showing only the honest handling wear and rich, untouched natural wood patina of an authentic travel piece. The paper dial remains bright and highly legible with minimal fading, light time-toning, and no devastating water damage or staining. The glass is intact and firmly seated. The needle balances cleanly on the pivot and continues to seek magnetic north perfectly.
Please review the standard and high-magnification macro photos provided to appreciate the pristine hand-engraved lines, ink texture, tight seam profile, and fine wood grain.Shipping & Handling:
The item will be meticulously wrapped in acid-free material, heavily double-bubble wrapped, and shipped securely in a crush-proof box. It will be dispatched fully insured with tracking and signature confirmation required upon delivery.Thank you for viewing. Please reach out with any questions.
