Objects Database

Silva Compass

Accession Number

1036.2012.1

Object Name

Silva Compass

Created

07/11/2012

Creator

H

Accession Date

07/11/2012

Brief Description

Silva baseplate compass in homemade pouch

Materials

plastic, metal

Dimensions

10(l) x 5(w) cms

Number Of Objects

1

Inscription Description

"SILVA" and fir tree logo "MADE IN SWEDEN A.B. BROD KJELLSTROM STOCKHOLM SWEDEN " on base

Colour

silver

Maker

Silva

Object Production Place

Sweden

Provenance

This is a pretty old Silva Compass which we think dates back to the 1960's, or maybe earlier. It once belonged to MIck Tighe's mountain guiding company, Nevis Guides and was superceded by better versions.
Swedish instrument maker, Gunnar Tillander, created the first 'baseplate' compass back in 1928 when he combined a protractor and an ordinary compass into one unit and decided to call it Silva - meaning wood - after his native forests in which he spent a lot of time orienteering.
This version is not liquid filled like later versions which means the needle wobbles about and is often damaged in transit as a result.
The little blue case was one of several made by one of Mick's clients to protect the compass when rattling around in the top of a rucksack.

Acquisition Method

Donated by Mick Tighe

Acquisition Date

07/11/2012

Condition Check Date

07/11/2012

Rules

Spectrum : UK Museum documentation standard, V.3.1 2007

Modified

07/11/2012

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