This brass ship clinometer antique is a working piece of maritime history — a genuine instrument recovered from a real commercial vessel, not a decorative copy. Made by SDM, a specialist naval instrument manufacturer, this circular brass clinometer was built for one purpose: to tell the captain and crew exactly how far a ship was tilting to port or starboard at any given moment. At 20 cm in diameter with a solid brass bezel and original white enamel dial, it is as visually striking today as it was essential at sea.

Whether you collect maritime antiques in London, furnish a coastal home in Bordeaux, or design atmospheric interiors in Amsterdam, this is a rare and genuinely functional piece of seafaring heritage that very few people can say they own.

What Is a Clinometer — And Why Did Ships Need One?

A clinometer — also called an inclinometer or list indicator — is a precision instrument that measures the angle of tilt of a vessel relative to the horizon. On a working cargo ship or tanker, knowing the exact angle of tilt at all times was critical for crew safety, cargo stability, and preventing the vessel from taking on water in rough seas.

This specific instrument carries the word Yalpametre on its original white enamel dial. This is the Turkish word for clinometer, which tells us directly that this piece was manufactured for use aboard Turkish commercial vessels — most likely a cargo ship or tanker operating in the Mediterranean, the Black Sea, or further afield. The manufacturer, SDM, produced specialist navigation instruments for the maritime industry, and the code 74-904-02 printed on the dial is the original factory product reference for this exact instrument model.

The red pendulum pointer inside the dial swings freely from side to side, always pointing vertically downward due to gravity. As the ship tilted, the pointer moved across the graduated scale, showing officers the precise angle of list — from 0° at centre to a maximum of 40° in either direction (port or starboard). This is the original working mechanism, and it remains intact on this piece.

Explore more authentic maritime navigation pieces in our collection of nautical navigation instruments and gauges and instrument panels.

Dimensions & Specifications

• Diameter: 20 cm
• Material: solid polished brass with white dial
• Scale: minus 40° to plus 40° (heel/tilt angle)
• Weight: approximately 1 kg (solid and sturdy)
• Brand: YALPAMETRE by SDM
• Finish: warm brass that develops a gentle natural patina over time

It is ready to mount on any wall with simple screws. The clear glass protects the dial while the red pointer moves smoothly to show the angle.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do you pack and send the vintage brass ship clinometer?

Yes, we wrap it carefully in protective foam and place it in a strong box. Every order to the UK and Europe is fully insured and tracked so it arrives safely at your door.

Q: Is this a real old ship instrument or a new copy?

It is 100 per cent authentic, salvaged from working vessels in the mid-1900s and carefully restored in Europe. Every piece carries genuine marks from its time at sea.

Q: What does a clinometer actually measure?

It shows the angle of tilt or heel of a ship. Captains and crew used it to monitor stability – now it makes a wonderful decorative piece that reminds you of life at sea.

Q: Is it easy to mount on the wall?

Yes, it fixes with simple screws through the brass frame. The 20-centimetre size looks great in any room or on a yacht bulkhead and needs only a small space.

Q: Can I order one for a gift or buy several?

Yes, we are happy to sort single gifts or bulk orders for yacht clubs, offices or special presents. Just send us a message and we will help with pricing and delivery.

Q: How do I keep the brass looking nice?

A quick wipe with a soft cloth keeps it clean most days. For extra shine you can use a gentle brass polish made for marine items. Many people actually like the natural patina that develops – it makes the clinometer look even more authentic.

Ready to add real ship history to your wall? Take a look at our full range of nautical clocks and barometers or the bigger nautical navigation instruments to build your perfect collection.