Vintage Nautical Brass Compass by Cassens & Plath – Type 51

This vintage nautical brass compass is a shipboard navigation instrument built with a solid brass housing. Over time, the brass developed patina, residue, and oxidation from marine use. You can also see oxidation buildup along the outer edge. In addition, this vintage nautical brass compass includes a side compartment that once held oil, which allowed sailors to read the compass during low-light conditions.

The front face uses plastic and shows heavy scratching from regular handling. A black rubber rim surrounds the face and helps protect the outer edge. Also, slotted screws secure the bezel and appear original to the piece. Because of this wear, this vintage nautical brass compass shows clear signs of use in a working marine environment.

Inside the housing, this vintage nautical brass compass holds a Cassens & Plath compass with a 4-inch glass face. The compass card displays clear degree markings and cardinal directions. It also shows the Cassens & Plath name and serial number (No. 95234), while the housing is marked “Type 51.” The compass still gimbals easily, and the internal mechanism responds as expected. However, a visible fluid bubble is present inside the compass.

Because of its condition, this vintage nautical brass compass works best as a display piece or for light functional use. Overall, it reflects the type of navigation equipment used on working vessels.

About Cassens & Plath

Cassens & Plath is a German manufacturer based in Hamburg. The company started producing marine navigation instruments in the early 1900s. Since then, it has built a reputation for reliable compasses used on both commercial and recreational vessels.

Features:

• Solid brass housing with patina, residue, and oxidation
• Cassens & Plath compass with 4″ glass face (No. 95234)
• “Type 51” marking on housing
• Gimbaled compass moves freely with visible fluid bubble