*British, Cherub Ships Log Rotator, made by T. Walker & Son, Birmingham*
Amazingly this rotator still has its original label.
“Insist upon a genuine “Cherub” Rotator!
Important. The Rotator should never be allowed to strike against the ship’s side’ as the vanes may thus become bent, and the accuracy of the Log seriously Impaired. It should be dried and well oiled after use.
Look for this trade-mark stamped on every vane.
Sole Makers
Thos. Walker & Son, Ltd., 58, Oxford Street, Birmingham, Eng. T.W.“
This 4 bladed rotator is marked with the Cherub trademark on each vane (Anchor, over T.W. over Cherub). Plus on one vane the trade mark logo is over 468. The manufacturers name is on another vane – T. Walker & Son Ltd, Birmingham, England.
Approximate measurements: rotator – 36cm long (to rope)
Background:
Thomas Walker & Son were prominent makers of nautical instruments in the 19th and 20th centuries, specializing in mechanical logs that measured a ship’s speed through water. Founded in Birmingham in the 1830s by Thomas Walker (1805–73), the firm later merged with that of Walker’s uncle, Edward Massey, whose patented logs were widely used in the 19th century.
One of the firm’s key innovations was the Cherub log, introduced in the 1880s. Unlike older models that required hauling the log aboard for readings, the Cherub featured a separate dial mounted on the ship’s rail, enabling measurements while in use. This advancement greatly improved practicality and reliability. The Cherub was highly successful, with initial sales of 400 units per year, rising to 2,000 by the 1890s.
Mechanical logs relied on a four-bladed rotator towed behind the vessel, with its rotations transmitted via a line to a counting mechanism. This approach evolved from earlier log-lines, simple ropes with knots tied at intervals, which had been used since the 16th century to estimate speed. The adoption of mechanical logs marked a leap forward in maritime navigation accuracy, with Walker’s firm leading the way.
*Condition*
This rotator is in excellent condition (comes without gauge). Please see photographs as part of the condition report.
RQMCOXHO_2979187421
