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Clinometer

Forestry

This object has a plastic leather-imitation case with a flap lid. Inside the case, there is a piece of card with scales and instructions in Finnish.

The instrument is a small metal rectangular box with two curved edges on the top and the bottom. Set in the flat surface of one side is a circular window behind which there is a semi-circular rotating scale marked in divisions of ten from 0 to 90 in two directions and an indicator needle. Surrounding the scale there is a clear liquid with a large bubble in it. On one of the curved edges there is a circular lens set into the side. Next to this lens there is a metal loop.

On the reverse side of the clinometer there is a round chart indicating cosine decimals.

Accession Number: 2017.for.6

Alternative Name:

Primary Materials: Metal, Glass

Markings:

On the front of he instrument”: “O/Y SUUNTO HELSINKI PATENT”
On a sticker directly below this: “Suunto Instrument
“Code: PM-5 360 PC”
“Made in Finland”

On the reverse side: “360° COSINE DECIMALS
DECIMALES DES COSINUS
COSINUSDEZIMALZAHLEN”
“Made by SUUNTO Co., Helsinki FINLAND
Manufactures of Precision Instruments”

Dimensions (cm): 15cm x 8.5cm x 2cm

Function:

To enable a user to measure from the ground the height of an object, such as a tree, given a known distance from the vertical base of the object. With this clinometer, measurements of angles are taken looking through the eyepiece through to the rotating scale.

Condition:

Good. The metal surface of the clinometer is somewhat worn and discoloured in places. The liquid is not supposed to contain a bubble and likely indicates a compromised seal.

The case is in good condition. The male side of the popper closer has rust around its base.

Associated Instruments:

Manufacturer: Suunto Instruments, Finland

Date of Manufacture: 1960-1990s

Provenance:

Department of Forestry. This clinometer was most likely used by undergraduate students in fieldwork training.

Additional Information and References:

This model has been available from Suunto Instruments since 1960. [Benson, M.L. The Suunto Clinometer. Australian Forestry. Volume 25, 1961 – Issue 2, pgs 122-126: 122]

Historical Notes:

Themes: