There is a small lever on one side of the compass that operates a needle lift mechanism to protect the compass bearing. The compass needle is accurate, quick and responsive. The compass is 4 inches in diameter and weighs almost 1 pound. The compass rose is graduated in degrees and has a standard surveyor's 0 - 90 degree scale from North and South.

This solid brass compass comes with solid rosewood box that has the Hampton Nautical anchor with rope logo embedded into the top. The box is a smooth and polished finish wood with a green felt on the inside to protect the compass.

The Poem on the front of the compass reads: “Those who dream by day are aware of many things which escape those who dream only by night.” – Edgar Allen Poe