This is a reproduction of the highly desirable "American Model" WWII Escape Compass, also called a "button compass." These tiny compasses were given to paratroopers and aircrews as part of small escape and evasion kits, which also included a cloth map and a small hacksaw blade. The compass's small size made it easy to hide anywhere on the body. Many soldiers sewed the compass into the fly or waistband of their trousers to keep it hidden from the enemy during searches if they were captured.

These reproductions measure .75" in diameter and .213" in height, weigh less than an ounce, and closely match the design and quality of the originals. Constructed from a solid piece of machined brass, just like the originals, these reproductions feature an acrylic crystal lens that protects the face of the magnetic dial. Escape compasses were made as a "dry" design, meaning there was no liquid to suspend the compass dial. This was done so that the compass would still work in cold weather, as a liquid-filled compass could freeze and become unusable.



made by stand in the door 1944