In 1873, optician John Enos Hand came to the United States on the Sir Robert Peel with wife Caroline from Liverpool. That same year he established John E. Hand in Philadelphia, manufacturer of surveyor's instruments and navigational equipment and also provided service as compass adjusters.
Hand Company built instruments for all types of floating vessels including those for the US Navy. Binnacles, azimuths, wrist compasses, barometers, boxed compasses, taffrail logs and clinometers were among the extensive stock production.
This is a professionally restored John E. Hand & Sons Co. binnacle that is in excellent condition for its age. The mechanical components are complete and the original wood barrel is in wonderful shape. Brass plate reads, "Type: L.N.S." and "No. 2882." Complete with wheeled dolly, constructed of quality deck grating. Warm, functional lighting. Some dents in binnacle top. This is a very hard-to-find item and won't last long!
