The earliest wheel, or banjo, barometers have fan inlays, a short shoulder (the vertical distance above the top fan, and below the pediment; in this case about 1 inch); the main bezel is very close to the edge of the case; at 12 o'clock on the main dial, the word is "changeable" instead of "change", which came in around 1803; and on the back of the barometer there are hooks to close the long door, instead of latches, and the pulley wheel inside is mounted on a saddle shape, instead of a rectangle of brass. There ae several other small details that help one date a barometer, but visually these points are a quick guide.

This barometer has all of these attributes, as well as chequer stringing to the edges, and horizontal veneer to the sides of the barometer. It is also signed by John Barbon of 21 Panton Street, Hay Market, (London).This is an opportunity to purchase a very early, fully working, antique barometer.

Maximum dimensions :

Date : c.1795-1800