This impressive full-size binnacle was restored at our AMA Woodworks shop in Tracey’s Landing MD. The binnacle was originally made by the famous British firm Henry Browne & Son Ltd (England). This company was a prominent manufacturer from the late 19th century through the 20th century, known for high-quality and precise marine compasses.
The term “Sestreline” typically refers to Sestrel compasses, a type of marine magnetic compass housed within the binnacle. The Sestrel brand, noted on this binnacle, is an acronym for SEnsitive, STeady, RELiable, reflecting the precision engineering and stability of these compasses.The Sestreline Type 90440 binnacle is a wet mount, gimbaled compass binnacle designed to minimize friction and oscillations, ensuring accurate readings at sea.
The binnacle has a 22-inch by 22-inch wood base at floor level.The wood 13-inch diameter pedestal has a brass “night house” cover, and measures 53-inches high.Inside the top of the pedestal is a gimbaled compass, which allows it to remain level to ensure navigational accuracy despite being on a rolling ship.There is a clinometer, brass manufacturer’s plaque, and 3 access doors on the pedestal.A working modern light is now installed inside the pedestal to light up the compass bowl at night.
The binnacle is 29-inches wide at the arms that are holding the red and green painted iron correcting spheres.There is a 3-inch diameter brass housing for the Flinders Bar on the fore side of the binnacle.
