*German, Souvenired U-Boat Compass, Marked: U141, D.R.P No 12759, Berlin 1942*
Approximate measurements: 6.5cm across (top to bottom – including Swastika and hinge) x 5.7 cm x 3.8 deep.
A distinctive brass compass marked with a Swastika and “U141” on the front, with “Berlin 1942” engraved on the bottom. The side bears the inscription “D.R.P. (Deutsche Reichs Patent) No. 12759.” “D.R.P.” refers to “Deutsches Reichspatent,” German patents issued from 1877 to 1945. The folding sight pops up on opening. In addition to the compass it has a spirit level. It features a lid with a mirror and a hairline indicator, reminiscent of WWI-era British prismatic instruments from which it may have evolved.
It is similar to a Brunton Compass, a type of compact pocket instrument invented by mining engineer D.W. Brunton in 1894. The Brunton compass includes a standard compass, foldable sights, a mirror, and a rectangular spirit-level clinometer. It can be used in the hand or mounted on a staff for measuring horizontal and vertical angles, leveling, and determining magnetic bearings.
Background:
German submarine U-141, a Type IID U-boat of the Kriegsmarine, was laid down on 12 December 1939 at Deutsche Werke in Kiel and launched on 27 July 1940. Commissioned on 21 August 1940 under the command of Oberleutnant zur See Heinz-Otto Schultze, U-141 began her service with the 1st U-boat Flotilla. She later served with the 3rd and 21st flotillas, conducting four patrols between May and September 1941, sinking four ships and damaging another. For the remainder of the war, she was used as a training vessel with the 31st flotilla before being scuttled on 5 May 1945.
*Condition*
This a heavy, substantial feeling compass that makes an evocative WW2 souvenir. Good patina with the expected scratches and dings commensurate with service. The needle looks like modern with a red paint tipped end. Some of the edges are very sharp. Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
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