U.S. Navy Ship’s Clinometer (Mark II, Mod 0, dated 1912)

This is a clinometer, specifically a U.S. Navy ship’s clinometer (Mark II, Mod 0, dated 1912).

Size: 12 Inches long, 7.5 Inches wide.

Purpose:

• A clinometer is an instrument used to measure angles of tilt, slope, or inclination.

• On ships, it measures the angle of roll or pitch — basically how much the vessel is leaning (heeling) to one side or pitching forward/backward in the water.

Features in the Photo:

• Pendulum weight (brass bob): Always hangs vertically due to gravity.

• Curved scale (in degrees): Ranges from 0° to 70° each side, letting sailors read how far the ship is tilted.

• Engraving: Identifies it as "Clinometer U.S. Navy Ships Mark II Mod 0, 1912" manufactured by Virginia Plating Co., New York.

Use in Service:

• Mounted on the bridge or control room of naval vessels.

• Critical for navigation and safety — if a ship heels too far (beyond stability limits), it risks capsizing.