The reason for this is that it is a surveyor's compass with fixed sites along the north south axis and this allows easy non reversed readings of bearings.
When you turn the compass siting on this axis the needle of course follows magnetic north. Align the sights with magnetic north and then turn the compass clockwise 45 degrees which should be North East or N 45 degrees E and you will see that the needle is showing the correct bearing because the East and West are reversed.
Ken S.
how old keuffel&esser builders level-transi serial #138143
Yes
To get more information about the Keuffel Esser transit, you can try searching for the model number or any other identifying marks on the tool. You can also contact antique tool collectors or reach out to organizations specializing in vintage surveying equipment for more details on its history and value.
E and W are reversed to facilitate making trend measurements on geologic features. See the following link: http://www2.gsu.edu/~geohab/pages/geol4013/bruntonCompass.htm
Serial numbers that started w/23000 are dated form 1911-1912 . 1912 serial numbers start w/ 26000
Wright Esser's birth name is Karl Wright Esser.
Dick Esser died in 1979.
George Esser died in 2006.
George Esser was born in 1921.
Robin Esser was born in 1935.
Dick Esser was born in 1918.
Leo Esser was born in 1907.