In contrast to a dry rose, the movements of the rose on a rolling ship in a liquid compass are damped in a liquid. This liquid consists of a mixture of alcohol and distilled water. A first attempt was introduced by E. Halley in 1690. The first serious design was patented in 1813 by the Briton Crow. Occasionally the Royal Navy placed it on smaller ships. In 1860 S. Richie designed an improved model that was generally accepted by the American Navy and from 1908 also by the British.

This azimuth compass is an early Dent Pattern 24 improved model in a very solidly constructed and polished mahogany case. Rare in this condition.
It is a nice complete example with 2 original sighting stylus (one spare) to be placed on top in the center when taking azimuth. With a bras funnel on top to top up the liquid filling and a leather carry strap. Due to the unfamiliarity with liquid compasses, Dent has provided instructions for use on the inside of the case.
Compasses like this one were first used aboard torpedo boats, later they found their way into the entire fleet. This ended the dominance of the Kelvin dry compass.

Catalogue: NM.7-09
Date: 1870-1880
HWL case: 20x26x26 cm
D compass: 20.3 cm
Signed: E. Dent & Co London No 44281, rose also signed Dent
Origin: England
Condition: complete and perfect; the leather strap is original, but not attached to the box