Exerpts from the RMTC Publication: Tools of the Rocky Mountain Tool Collectors
The pride of Dave Fessler’s instrument collection, a SOLAR COMPASS. When surveying in areas with iron ore deposits, or near the magnetic pole, the needle can’t be depended upon for a True North reading. The solar attachment determines north much like a sextant does at sea. The instrument is equipped with both sight bars, and an auxiliary telescope.It was made by Gurley in 1891, and is reported to be the only one of its kind. It is made of aluminum and brass. At the time of its manufacture, aluminum was almost as valuable as silver.
Thought to be CALLIGRAPHER’S SCISSORS from Turkey, ca. 1700. The long blades are for trimming straight edges. The blued blades are elaborately engraved and the ornate brass bows appear to be gold plated. Grace Goss Collection