Compass, Type 92 Model 2, in Wooden Case, Japanese Navy Aircraft

This is a WWII-era direct reading magnetic compass,Type 92 Model 2, made by Yokogawa Electric Corporation for aircraft of the Japanese Navy in its wooden storage container. The Type 92 was primarily used in aircraft such as the Mitsubishi A6M5 Zero fighter, see photo of a Zero instrument panel showing the compass location. It was also used in the Nakajima B5N2 Kate torpedo bomber.

There is a panel which, when unscrewed by turning the two knurled knobs at the bottom and opened, reveals a lamp for illuminating the compass and the compass correction adjustment mechanism, which can be pulled out. The compass correction card slips into the frame on the front of the panel.

A directional indicator is set in a peripheral frame around the compass lens. There is an adjustment screw a the 5 o'clock position for rotating the course card from 0-360 degrees that still functions.

The original authorization paper permitting the US serviceman to possess the compass is included.

This specimen still contains the compass card but the dampening fluid has evaporated. It is in exceptional condition given its age. Measures ~6 inches high, ~4.5 inches wide, and ~4 inches deep. The case is 8 inches tall, by 6 inches by 8 inches.