Original British WWI R.F.C. Sketch Board with Compass and Inlaid Protractor by Aston & Mander – dated 1910 Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This type of sketching board was used by British cavalrymen and Royal Flying Corps observers to sketch enemy positions, trenches, landscape features, and record data during the First World War. The board would be strapped to the wearers forearm via a leather strap to the rear and a scroll of paper wrapped and the two brass tubes on either side. The board is in overall very good condition with a complete strap. The compass works and points in a northerly direction. The compass rotates within the frame, so that the board can be properly oriented. 

Compass is nicely marked:

ASTON & MANDER

LONDON

The sketch board has a wooden frame measuring 10″ tall by 7″ wide. The tops of the two brass posts have winders with locking knobs so the observer can easily roll a free writing surface into view, and lock the paper in place. There are also distance and inch markings on the top and bottom. The bottom rear of the board has the manufacturer information listed:

ASTON & MANDER LTD LONDON
1910
IV

There are also British “Broad Arrow” marks, as well as serial number 2228. Interestingly, this sketch board has a brass protractor inlaid into the rear, which is maker marked W. G. HOLMES. It goes from 50 to – 50 degrees, and also has a leaf spring that holds it in place, with a release button to remove the spring friction.

Clearly a very useful aviation item for taking notes of enemy positions from the air. In very fine condition, a quality manufactured item and a most unusual item to find from the WWI Period. Ready to display!