Made toward the latter part of the 19th century, this brass cased green card dial prismatic compass with folding sight vane is inscribed 'MAJOR HUTCHINSONS IMPROVED 248' and is signed 'ELLIOTT BROS, STRAND, LONDON' on the dial around the pivot.

The founder, William Elliott, formed a partnership with his sons Frederick and Charles in 1850, and the firm became known as Elliott & Sons, the name later changing to Elliott Bros in 1854 after William retired the year prior.

The improved models were a revision designed to be lighter and less bulky than their predecessors and added a glass window within the brass body to view bearings and for superior protection when on the move. The compass retains much of its blackened brass finish, though there is some wear to the underside and measures 2¾" (70 mm) diameter and comes with a leather case, which is in good condition and bears the initials "A.N." in black pen, presumably the initials of a previous owner.

Dating to the late Victorian period, it is in good working order including the transit lock activated by the folding sight vane. The compass and case together weigh just under 230 grams in its case.