Astronomical compendium for latitudes 0°-90° North. This compendium consists of two hinged, flat plates that fold over the main body of the instrument, the upper carrying the lunar volvelle, nocturnal and the table of latitudes, and the lower holding an equinoctial dial. The table of latitudes, which is in two columns, comprises cities in Europe. On the universal equinoctial dial is an hour scale and a pivoted brass strut across the East-West diameter to support the rod gnomon. On the back is a groove, in which is held a pivoted brass strut for setting the latitude of the dial.

The compass has 32 winds marked in Italian around the edge of the compass aperture. The cardinal points are marked by Italian initials and the magnetic variation is marked by an engraved arrow at 3° East of North. There is a scale on the West side of the box for setting the latitude and a carrying handle on the side to which the upper plate is hinged. The dial has two small, shaped catches to hold it closed. The sides of the instrument are engraved to give the impression of a book with fine lines suggesting the page edges.

This instrument is similar in style to German compendia, and may well have been influenced by makers from Augsburg and Nuremberg. On the base it is signed 'Cornelio Vinchx fecet Napoli 1623'. Another compendium by Vinch is in the Musée de la Vie Wallonne in Liège.

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