Horizontal dial for latitudes 47°-49° North. The dial is part of a travelling set that includes a barometer and spirit level. It is made of silver and has a glass front. The degree scale is divided clockwise (0-360°). The compass is set below the dial and is painted dark red with gold markings. Eight points are marked with English initials and the magnetic variation is indicated by an arrow at 23° West of North. The needle can be locked by a bar operated from the outside of the dial. The central circular dial-plate is engraved with hour scales and the brass gnomon is hinged and folds flat when not in use. It has a silver bird index to mark the latitude.

The instruments have a black leather case with a decorated vellum lid carrying the mottoes 'Crux Christi Nostra Corona' (The Cross of Christ is our Crown) and 'Souviens Toi, de moi' (Remember me). The case also displays a monogram (BFH) and a coat of arms. Although it has a French motto, the markings on the sundial are in English. The style of the bird gnomon, however, is French (see AST0141). This suggests, therefore, that although it was made by a French maker, it was probably intended for an English owner. While the gnomon is adjustable for quite a large range of latitudes, the two hour-scales only allow use of the dial around 47° and 49° North.

For more information regarding this dial please refer to the OUP & NMM catalogue, 'Sundials at Greenwich'.