Augsburg dial

Augsburg dial for latitudes 0°-90° North. Standard dial (see related terms) except for the following details:-

The dial-plate consists of lacquered brass. The compass has a degree scale divided 0°-90°-0°-90°-0°, and a four-point rose. Eight points are marked and named in French and North is further indicated by fleur-de-lys. A replacement needle, blued at one end, is surmounted by a brass cylindrical pivot and engraved around the compass are seven European cities with their latitudes, including 'Paris 49' and 'Vienne 48.' The latitude arc, signed 'N-BION-A-PARIS' on its outer side, is shaped and decorated at the tip. The obverse side of the hour ring is numbered clockwise I-XII, I-XII, and the reverse is numbered 1-12, 1-12. Also on the reverse is a table of latitudes comprising places from all over the world, including 'Lahauane (Havana) 23', 'Pequin (Beijing) 40', 'Siam (Thailand) 14' and 'Lima 12'.

This dial is a rather simple piece by Bion. The compass includes a degree scale but no rod to indicate the magnetic variation.

For more information regarding this dial please refer to the OUP & NMM catalogue, 'Sundials at Greenwich'.

Object Details

ID: AST0285
Collection: Astronomical and navigational instruments
Type: Augsburg dial
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Bion, Nicolas
Places: Beijing
Date made: 1685-1715
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London, Caird Collection
Measurements: Overall: 13 x 67 x 72 mm