For as long as barometers have existed they have been standard equipment on water-going craft of all shapes and sizes. There is little as important to a mariner as the weather and sea conditions, and the barometer gave a way to measure air pressure, a statistic from which determinations could be made as to sailing or rowing course and tactics.
The barometer was first created in the early 1600s. Advancements were made over the years, and barometers using either water, mercury, or air were all available. (In 2007, the sale of mercury was restricted and from that point, most if not all new barometers in Europe were either the air or water variety.)
See also: Ancient Roman coins: History you can hold in your hand
Antique barometers are very collectible and great pieces tend to show up for sale rather often. Look through the listings here and see if any of them suit your needs; we usually feature, at any one time, several varieties, eras, styles, prices and companies. Often barometers are built into a wooden piece containing a clock, and sometimes with a barograph or some other instrument.
We also list equipment needed to display some barometers and barometer/clock combinations (stands, mounts, etc). Look through the listings below and check our latest offers – many of these are unique and if you see what you like in your price range, go for it because it may be a while before a similar item pops up for sale.
