CARL BLATH BAROGRAPH
Hamburg, Germany, Circa 1880
Signed on a silvered brass maker's label "C. Plath Hamburg", and marked with serial no. 2113 on the interior brass plate. Seven compound bellows are attached to a pivoting arm by means of a brass linkage system. The bellows are unique in that they are mounted horizontally, as opposed to the usual vertical placement. The pivot arm scribes on graduated recording paper laid over a revolving brass drum, turned by a jeweled 8-day clock movement, rotating once every seven days. The mechanism is adjustable, and the pen trace may be interrupted when recording is not desired by use of a knurled lever. Built-in key for winding the clock inside the removable brass cover of the drum. A small brass receptacle housing a glass ink bottle is also provided for inking the scribe. Housed in heavy glazed wood case with brass hardware and hinged cover.

Provenance
The West Sea Company, Old Town San Diego, California, 2001.
The Kelton Collection of Marine Art & Artifacts.

Notes:
The firm of C. Plath was founded by Carl Plath, who purchased the nautical instrument making business of D. Filby in Hamburg, Germany in 1862. Plath quickly gained a reputation for manufacturing the finest quality nautical instruments in the world. His precision sextants are legendary. Carl's son Theodor joined the firm in 1892 and became a partner in 1899. The elder Plath retired in 1905 and Theodor became sole owner in 1908. The firm continues in existence to this day.

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age; these issues will likely not be mentioned in the condition report. Please contact Eldred's before the auction with any condition questions. Questions about condition will not be answered after purchase. Condition reports are provided as a courtesy, and we are not responsible for any errors or omissions. Important note on frames: Frames are not guaranteed to be in the same condition as they are in the item photograph. Due to handling and shipping, many frames, especially antique ones, are prone to losses. If you have questions about the condition of a frame, please contact us prior to the auction.