Name/Title
Paragon beam compass, probably model 502X, sold by Keuffel & Esser Co., (Hoboken), n.d., ca.1920s-1930s.Entry/Object ID
2009.006.0056Description
Paragon heavyweight tubular beam compass, probably model 502X, distributed by Keuffel & Esser Company, (Hoboken, N.J.), no date, circa 1920s-1930s. Stainless steel machined bars and holders; plated metal accessories except steel compass point. Hinged clamshell wood case, covered with black leather, K&E logo stamped on top, 17-3/4" long x 3-3/4" deep x 3/4" thick; fitted wood interior with green velveteen.
Model number is not marked on any pieces or case. Only product marking is on the 13-7/8" long bar with cap end: "Paragon K&E Co. Germany." Set is essentially the description of model 502 (in the 35th edition catalog of 1915) or 502X (38th edition, 1936): the set called for 3 bars with a stated length of 38" inches; the bars were of heavier material than other models; and the 1936 description states "stainless steel." The accessories are as called for, but by finish, style and condition seen in the image of them, it appears that one or more may be replacements.
Contents:
3 tubular stainless steel bars, 1/2" diameter, dimension given below is the overall length:
-16" long with micrometer adjustment on end and fixed compass point holder at that end with a set screw to secure it once the micrometer adjustment is made; also a thumbscrew to hold the point or other accessory; second moveable point holder with same fasteners (there is groove in all the bars for this sliding holder to move the length of the beam and to be held in the same orientation as the fixed holder.)
-15-1/4 long extension bar
-13-7/8" long, capped end: this is the only piece in the set that is marked (see below.)
Five accessories to fit compass: 1 steel compass point, 1 needle compass point, 2 lead holders, ink pen; plus a screw top metal tube for spare pencil leads.
Also present are two additional matching 15-1/4" extension bars; cannot store in the case.
Although item is marked "Germany" as country of origin, K&E main offices and factory were in Hoboken during the period when this was manufactured and was among the many products they offered that were packaged and distributed from Hoboken.
Item is very similar to the description of model 502 (in the 35th edition catalog of 1915) or 502X (38th edition, 1936): the set called for 3 bars with a stated length of 38" inches; the bars were of heavier material than other models; and the 1936 description states "stainless steel."
As shown in the catalog illustrations, the set screws on the point holders were on the top, where there are actually on the side on this item. K&E products are known to vary from catalog depictions. Further research in more editions may allow more careful dating of this item.
The actual point-to-point length allows the boxed set to scribe up to a 40" radius rather than the 38" stated in the catalog. The two additional bars would allow it to draw up to a 66-1/2" radius.Acquisition
Accession
2009.006Source or Donor
Lukacs, ClaireAcquisition Method
GiftCredit Line
Museum Collections. Gift of a friend of the Museum.Made/Created
Date made
1940 - 1950Notes
Date: 1940-1950General Notes
Note
Status: OK
Status By: dw
Status Date: 2009-05-18
