Offered here is a rare and unusual black parallel marked "Capt. Field's Improved Parallel" made in ebony with white lettering.  Also marked "Made in England".  From research I estimate this was made in the mid to late 1800's. Measures 18 1/4" long and 3 1/4" wide.  Both brass hinges and knobs are fastened tight. There is some expected wear on the edges and a chipped corner in the lower left "west" position (see photo). 

Capt. William Andrew Field (about 1796–1871) of Britain added a protractor and compass scales to hinged parallel rules in 1854. This made it easier for ship navigators to move the rule without losing track of the ship's course. Captain Feild's (or Field's) design had one of its outer edges divided into degrees like a protractor, with the opposite edge divided into points, half-points and quarter-points (of the compass). This made it easier to read off the bearing of a line than with a plain parallel rule, which had to be moved across the chart to the nearest compass diagram.

I sell mostly USED and UNIQUE vintage or antique items.  Expect minor evidence of use or imperfections, wear, dings etc. from age.  I take many photos of my items to assist with the description.  Please use the photos to help judge content and condition.

BUY WITH CONFIDENCE: I value positive customer feedback. I have been in good standing to the eBay collector community for over 23 years. My history speaks for itself so that you can buy with confidence.

RETURNS: Accepted, full purchase price refunded upon return. Buyer to pay return shipping. Please inspect your item carefully and please notify me of a return within 3 days of receiving it.

SHIPPING: 99% of items shipped within four or less business days.