A mid-20th-century nautical taffrail log, model Knotmaster Mark III A, manufactured by Thos. Walker and Son Ltd. of Birmingham, England. This mechanical instrument is designed for measuring a vessel’s speed and distance travelled through water. The set comprises a mechanical register unit, two impellers, and a braided log line. The register unit features a circular cream-coloured dial housed in a black-finished body with a chrome-plated bezel. The dial is graduated from 0 to 100 nautical miles on the outer scale, with two smaller sub-dials for measuring fractions of a mile and cumulative nautical miles. The dial is inscribed KNOTMASTER MK IIIA, NAUTICAL MILES, and BIRMINGHAM. There is a small oiling aperture visible on the dial face. Two winged brass or bronze impellers are included; one exhibits surface oxidation from use, while the other is contained within a protective plastic wrap. The braided log line connects the impeller to the register unit. The set is housed in its original fitted pine transit box, which features brass hinges and twin hook-and-eye latches. A paper label on the lid is printed with Walker’s KNOTMASTER LOG Mark III A Made in England by Thos. Walker and Son Ltd., 58, Oxford Street, Birmingham, B5 5NX.
Condition report:
The set appears complete and is housed in its original fitted case. The wooden transit box shows age-related staining and wear, particularly to the paper label which shows minor losses and discolouration. One impeller shows heavy surface oxidation and verdigris consistent with marine use. The register unit\'s housing and chrome bezel exhibit minor surface wear and light pitting. The mechanical movement is untested. The log line shows typical signs of use.
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