A Compass as a Keepsake?

What is the Compass Story?

Giddy Aunts like to think that the compass was invented by an innovative Girl Guide or Boy Scout, but apparently, this is not the case! According to the Authentic Models people who make a fabulous range of retro and antique reproduction compasses, the compass was invented thousands of years ago in China and primarily used by feng-shui priests so they could work out where to build.

The basic compass has a magnetized needle that rotates on a vertical pin and points the the Earth's magnetic north.

In the 16th Century sailors used the compass, along with their knowledge of the stars, prevailing winds and ocean currents, to navigate across the oceans.

In today's age of 'sat navs' and suchlike, a compass is a romantic reminder of the journey of life and adds symbolic meaning as we navigate our way along the milestones, at any age or stage.

Engraved Compass Messages

Over the years we have hand-engraved compasses with names, dates and meaningful sentiments and we have gathered a few of our favourites below for you. We'd love to hear any more that you can think of.

You help me find my way
Follow your dreams
I would be lost without you
With you I am home
Long may the journey last
Moving forward
May your faith always guide you
May faith & love always guide you
Find your true direction
Good luck with your new direction
You give my life direction
Go confidently in the direction of your dreams...
Always find your way home
So you can always find your way back to me
And so the adventure begins...
You are my true North
You are my world
Wherever you go I will follow
Guard my ways and guide my steps
32°56'43"S 151°08'21"E 3.10.17 (Co-ordinates and Date)
Name, Date and Birthplace
You're off to great places, Today is your day, Your mountain is waiting, So get on your way. Dr Seuss