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NAVIGATIONAL INSTRUMENT No. 24
NAVIGATIONAL INSTRUMENT No. 24
Antique ships navigation Battenburg Course Indicator, Mk. II, by Elliot Brothers, London. No.149.
Diameter 12.25" / 31 cm
The Battenburg Course Indicator was invented to aid a ships speed and distance navigation calculations, it was particularly useful for large flotilla's of Warships that were operating in convoy.
The main body of the instrument is made from brass with an aluminium surface plate. The main outer dial has compass bearings on the outer ring. The guide bar with the large pointer is set to the compass course of the lead ship. The bar pivoted at the centre of the small bearing circle has a scale for speed. the other two smaller bars have a scale for distance.
Station, speed and distance indicators were developed following the introduction of fast steam ships, when it became more important to be able to calculate the course and speed of other vessels within sight. The Battenburg Course Indicator was invented in 1892 by Prince Louis of Battenburg ( 1854 - 1921 ) He later became the First Sea Lord. The Batternebrg Course indicator was first issued to the Royal Navy's fleet in 1895. It could also be used as an enemy Torpedo calculator.
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