{"product_id":"vintage-us-army-engineering-department-pocket-compass-1917-ultranite-silver","title":"Vintage US Army Engineering Department Pocket Compass 1917 Ultranite Silver","description":"\u003cp\u003eThis vintage US Army Engineering Department pocket compass dated 1917 is a highly collectible military navigation instrument from the World War I era. Sought after by collectors, this compact compass represents early American field engineering equipment and period military craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe compass is pre-owned and shows clear signs of age, including surface wear, patina, oxidation, and dial discoloration consistent with long-term use and storage. The hinged cover opens and closes properly, and the original loop and crown remain intact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eConstructed with a silver-toned metal case, this example features a marked dial reading “Ultranite,” directional indicators, and period patent markings. The rear case is stamped “Eng. Dept. U.S.A. 1917,” confirming its military issue origin. The compass weighs approximately 43.6 grams.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCompasses like this were essential tools for U.S. Army engineers during World War I, used for surveying, mapping, and field navigation. Ultranite dials were designed to improve visibility in low-light conditions common in trench and field operations.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMilitary historians, World War I collectors, and antique instrument enthusiasts will value this piece for its documented date, military markings, and authentic field-used character. It also displays well as a historical artifact.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis item has been visually inspected for authenticity and condition and is offered as a genuine vintage military collectible sourced through secondary markets.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDid You Know? During World War I, U.S. Army engineering units relied heavily on pocket compasses for trench layout, artillery positioning, and battlefield navigation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDisclaimer: All trademarks and brand names are the property of their respective owners. California Auction Company is not affiliated with or endorsed by any brand.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"ROY STOCKTON","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":46153592799431,"sku":null,"price":100.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0735\/4633\/4407\/files\/PXL_20260129_174611035.jpg?v=1770140077","url":"https:\/\/209marketplace.myshopify.com\/products\/vintage-us-army-engineering-department-pocket-compass-1917-ultranite-silver","provider":"California Thrift \u0026 Collectibles","version":"1.0","type":"link"}