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Barnebys HQ
Brahegatan 10
BOX 5038
114 37 Stockholm
All auctions / Furniture, Design & Mirrors / Planimeter - Metal
For true collectors of scientific antiques, engineers, architects and enthusiasts of the history of technical design: we present an exceptional Salmoiraghi Polar Planimeter Model 236, a genuine jewel of high-precision Italian mechanics. Made by the renowned "La Filotecnica Salmoiraghi" of Milan, this instrument represents the apex of pre-digital analog technology, an era in which mathematics and physics fused with flawless metallurgical craftsmanship. Founded in Milan in 1865 by Ignazio Porro and later led by Angelo Salmoiraghi, "La Filotecnica" was for over a century the absolute world reference in the production of optical, geodetic, measuring and aviation instruments. Salmoiraghi instruments traced the maps of our cities, designed Italy’s great historical infrastructures, and equipped the army and navy with millimetric targeting systems. Owning a Salmoiraghi-branded object means possessing a piece of the country’s history of industrial excellence. Before the advent of CAD software on computers, the planimeter was the indispensable tool in engineering and surveying studies. It allows calculating the exact area of a geometrically irregular surface (such as a mountainous terrain, a basin, or a neighboring property) drawn on a map. The professional moved the instrument’s arm along the perimeter of the shape through the special optical aiming lens: a sophisticated integrated wheel recorded infinitesimal movements, translating them, thanks to the calibration scale, into real square meters or hectares with astonishing mathematical precision. The lot is exceptionally well preserved and consists of: - Salmoiraghi Model 236 planimeter in splendid aesthetic condition, with extremely clear graduations and scales, pristine lenses and smooth mechanics. - Polished steel anchoring polar rod for fixed placement on the desk. - Original calibration accessories and micrometric counterweights. - Original rigid protective case from the period, inside which remains the intact and rare Original Salmoiraghi S.p.A. Milano Calibration Label with the calculation values printed in red and matched to the specimen’s serial number. An object of immense charm and class, ideal to display in a modern professional study, in a loft, or inside a display case of antique instruments. An exclusive gift for a professional or a safe investment for the scientific collecting market.
Estimate:£68.8
To the auctionView all items fromCatawikiorFurniture, Design & Mirrors
Estimate:
£68.8
Antique Oak Flat File Map Cabinet, Late 19th to Early 20th Century
09/26/2026
£359.83
Est: £358.34
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