Antique Jules Richard Pocket Weather Station. France, XIX Century

Antique pocket weather station made in the 19th century by the famous French company Jules Richard. This curious piece contains an aneroid barometer, a thermometer and a compass, being the three pieces in working order. The barometer has been tested with the vacuum bag test and we can guarantee that it works but we cannot tell how precise it is. The three devices that make up this fascinating weather station are assembled in a metal plate, attached in turn to a delicate leather case in really good condition. If we open the cases lid we will see the compass to the left, the barometer to the right and the thermometer horizontally disposed over them. The compass stands out for its black face with golden letters and symbols. The barometer has a white face with black symbols; printed in the face we can see the manufacturers name, Jules Richard. On the other hand, the thermometer shows the temperature in centigrade and Fahrenheit grades. Under the barometer and the compass lays the word TOURISTE clearly engraved in the metal plate. Last but not least, the case is outside decorated with fine golden lines and remains in amazing condition. Its good working order and delicate quality turn this antique weather station into a highly evocative piece. Measurements: Width: 4.3 in / 11 cm. Depth: 3.5 in / 9 cm.History of Jules Richard Born in 1848, Jules Richard would use skills, learned and refined in the business of precision instrument making, to create the most popular line of Stereo cameras, viewers and accessories of the early 20th century. His father, Felix, died in 1876 leaving the family business in poor condition. Jules Richard took over, and in 1880 patented a highly successful recording barometer. The firm expanded its line of scientific instruments, and by the 1890s Richard was enjoying considerable success. Along the way, he acquired an interest in stereo photography.