Naudet Co 1915 1916 Paris World War I French Aviation Altimeter Militaire
World War I French aviation altimeter made by Naudet & Co.
Antique French aviation altimeter designed specifically for aviation, and dating to the first years of the 20th century, circa 1915-16. This is a very rare instrument by this premier maker, crafted with a silvered brass dial with twin concentric scales, the rotating outer with a range from 0–4000 metres with stations at 200 metre intervals and a resolution of, 10 metres, the last 1500 metres read on a part-second revolution, 3500m and 4000m marked in red. The inner scale graduated from 56-78 cm of mercury. The upper centre dial marked “Naudet & Cie,” with “PHNB” logo and “Paris.” The lower portion with serial no. “1142” and “Aviation Militaire.” Broad blued-steel pointer set beneath bevelled glass. The very high quality single capsule movement constructed in brass with a full range of adjustment, Naudet pattern compensation. The drum pattern case with top mounted stem and altitude ring adjustment crown. The rear with compensation screw set at 4 o’clock.
With the original supplied leather case with four suspension rings, these aviators’ instruments are very seldom seen and very rar. This one has survived in remarkably excellent condition. The dial with insignificant marks, the glass in perfect condition and the bronze case in perfect shiny condition. This unusual instrument is very much a collector’s piece.
Dial: Cream silvered on bronze with Arabic numerals, blued iron hands and inscribed; Naudet & Cie. PNHB Paris 1142 Aviation Militaire.
Weight: 630 Grams, (1.38 Pounds).
Complete Dimensions: The diameter is 4.5 Inches and the deep is 2.02 inches (11.43 x 5.13 Cm).
References: Bonhams New York 19 – 29 January 2021, Lot-10
Note: For reference, the altimeter numbered 1149 was given to the Captain James Norman Hall. WWI Flyer and Writer. 1887-1951. Most probably the altimeter we are offering was owned by a member of the 103rd and 94th Aero Squadrons.
Population: Probably not more of 10 pieces from this model in existence.
Naudet & Co. (Naudet et Cie) began operating in Paris in 1860. The logo used on their instruments is PNHB, which represents the last names of their four founders Pertuis, Hulot, Bourgeois, and Naudet. They are specialist in Barometers and altimeters makers since the 1860. They are based in Paris. Naudet has been manufacturing holosteric barometers and barographs since 1860. Before the invention of aneroid capsule in 1844 by Lucien VIDIE, barometers were all mercury-based, operating according to the principle discovered in 1643 by Torricelli. This experience of over 150 years gives Naudet unparalleled expertise in the design and manufacture of high quality measuring devices. They was very active during the WWI and WWII. They are the only French manufacturer still in business, is the leading brand in the field of barometers and hygrometers. The 100% made-in-France with special craftsmanship always meets the most strident criteria of excellence. Today Naudet offers a full range of barometers and barographs, hair hygrometers, thermometers, and clocks that find their place at home, inside your boat or in the wine or cigar cellars. Before the development of current weather forecast, the barometer was "tapped" each morning by sailors or farmers whose work depended on climatic conditions, or just by enthusiasts and the curious who wanted to predict local weather. Today the Naudet instruments remains beautiful, useful and timeless. A gift to be transmitted.
How do you read an altimeter?
The numbers on the dial each represent 100 feet, and the 4 indices, or lines, between the numbers each represent 20 feet. Add the reading from this pointer to the numbers from the others to get your total altitude. For example, if the 100-foot pointer is at the 2nd line past the 5, then you read it as 540 feet.
Collateral: It accompanied with the original brown leather case from the period.
Condition: The overall condition of this altimeter is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to any part. All parts are secured in the settings including the leather case. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and the authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: D041323RENG/.2221
