Henry Browne & Sons, "Sestreline" Trade Mark Ship's binnacle

A free standing ship's binnacle manufactured using a rare fiberglass housing built by Henry Brown & Son LTD. England.

Click here for enlarged view.

The brass Manufacturers plate states:

The plate above states:
REG. DES. NO. 913004
PATENT NO. 955213
COMPASS NO. 7720 N/S

The binnacle houses it's original Sestreline "Dead Beat" compass built by Henry Brown & Son LTD., Serial #7720NS. She stands 58″ tall with pedestal width of 28" and spans 36″ (compensating sphere arms). This compass is fully functional. The compass itself is 10″ in diameter with a 7 1/2" compass and almost 6″ deep. Glass bottom for night viewing with an interior light. The binnacle also houses a liquid inclinometer displaying 40 degree heel to Port and Starboard on the front, and a brass 'flinders’ Tube with cap, and adjustable painted cast iron compass compensating spheres”. The binnacle helmet has hinged brass covers over the view ports on the front and back and a removable lid with handle on top. A side window is designed to hold a portable burner for night light (not included) but does have it's removable brass cover. We are not sure of it's age, but would guess to be in the mid 20th century. I have only seen one other example similar to this in the last 20 years, so there is not much to reference material to compare it to or to utilize from an appraisal perspective.

This compass is certainly a step-away from the traditional mahogany pedestal binnacle found on most commercial vessels from the past. The fiberglass housing with off-white finish survives in good condition with some expected surface wear and scratches. Beyond this, one of the compensating sphere arms is slightly bent up, but works fine and is not readily noticeable unless pointed out. The light adjustment knob is partially missing, but should still work. This binnacle can be re-painted if desired and would be an outstanding display in a contemporary setting.