Bidspirit auction | Waltham US Military Issue Nickel

Waltham US Military Issue Nickel Plated Hunter Case Pocket Compass with Bead Chain - This magnetic pocket compass is housed in a nickel-plated white metal hunter-style case. The exterior of the front cover features the impressed characters U. S. centered on the surface. The interior features a silvered metal dial protected by a glass crystal. The dial is printed with a 360-degree scale in 2-degree increments, with numbered markers every 20 degrees. The cardinal and ordinal directions are indicated by printed letters N, NE, E, SE, S, MS, SW, and NW. Below the North index mark is the printed name WALTHAM. The instrument is fitted with a balanced magnetic needle featuring a darkened end to indicate North. The case is constructed with a hinged lid and a top-mounted ring and bow, to which a metal bead-style neck chain is attached. The reverse of the case bears a rectangular yellow adhesive label with illegible handwritten markings in black ink. Diameter: 1.75 inches. The case shows widespread surface wear, fine scratches, and minor pitting consistent with field use (photos 3, 4, and 6). Light oxidation and small areas of verdigris are visible around the hinge and stem (photo 5). The dial surface exhibits moderate foxing and localized discoloration, particularly near the center and outer edges (photo 2). The glass crystal remains intact with minor superficial scratches (photo 2). The adhesive label on the reverse is degraded and partially torn (photo 4). The hinge and latch mechanism appear to be in functional condition (photo 5).