My first u-boot item - Optical Azimuth Compass

[WWIIBuff]

Just thought I'd help to start off our new Kriegsmarine sub-forum with a new addition to my collection. This is an Optical Azimuth Compass from a u-boot.

Unfortunately someone removed all the original grey paint, but I think it still looks pretty cool in it's naked bronze form.

[WWIIBuff]

The plate with the KM eagle and serial number remains, although the plate with the makers info above is missing.

The lever in the second picture allows the unit to be removed or attached to the base of it's transport case, and then also to attach it to the bridge of the u-boot.

[WWIIBuff]

My understanding it that it had to be built out of heavy bronze, so incase the submarine had to make an emergency dive, and it was left attached to the bridge, it would survive.

[WWIIBuff]

.

[WWIIBuff]

Makers mark of a standing man using a sextant (C. Plath, Hamburg) and what is I assume is a serial number, although since there was already a number on the eagle plate, I'm not sure.

[WWIIBuff]

No comments on this. Hmmm, is that a good sign or a bad sign?

[glaser]

good sign

It is a good sign because I think we are all astonished to see such a rare U boat item in excellent condition with its case, I can assure you I would love to have one like that in my collection! CONGRATULATIONS!

[coloprimus]

Hello,
very nice U-boot compass, scarce piece of optic.
Cheers, Pierre

[WWIIBuff]

Thanks guys. I know it's not pristine since it's had it's grey paint removed, but I like the way it looks, and it's definately original.

[NickG]

Cool item John abd rare!! Congrats! Btw I just signed up on AtlantikPirat!
Back in the 80's I was dating the daughter of a Spanish Naval officer.
In his study he had a bunch of such parts from old Uboots that Spain was supplied with during the war (and later scrapped),
these were salvaged, like instruments, gages, German data plates etc....

[WWIIBuff]

Thanks Nick.

So you didn't get any of those u-boot parts while you had a chance?

[WWIIBuff]

I recently picked up a grouping of u-boot photos with some nice shots of the azimuth compass on the bridge.

[WWIIBuff]

I was also fortunate enough to be able to acquire another of these compasses. This one is a minty piece.

[WWIIBuff]

I assume this one was never issued since there is no number next to the KM eagle.

[km-spain]

john, really nice pice congratulations for this new piece.