Vintage John Lilley & Gillie Clinometer – North Shields England

This vintage John Lilley & Gillie clinometer comes from North Shields, England. It measures the angle of tilt, elevation, or depression relative to gravity. People also refer to it as a tiltmeter, level gauge, or gradiometer.

Maritime and aviation crews used clinometers to monitor balance and stability. This piece is made from black-painted brass and shows light wear from use. You can see surface scratches, which reflect its age and working life.

You can display this clinometer in several ways. For example, it works well in:

• A wall display with other nautical instruments
• An office or study
• A bar or lounge area with maritime decor

History of the Company

John Lilley started John Lilley and Son in London in 1812. He focused on optical services and nautical instruments. Later, in 1885, John Wilson Gillie founded Wilson & Gillie in North Shields. His company produced charts, magnetic compasses, and marine instruments.

The two companies merged in 1913. In 1943, they became John Lilley & Gillie Ltd. The company still produces nautical instruments today.