Vintage Brass Ship Taffrail Log

Description

Vintage Brass ship’s taffrail log

1890-1920’s

Commonly referred to as a “fish” or spinner.

A total length of 48 1/2” inches (measuring the rotator, connecting line, and governor piece together) confirms this is a full-sized, standard commercial or naval version rather than a smaller yacht variant.  Used by major maritime suppliers like Thomas Walker & Son (Birmingham, England) for their commercial ship lines, such as the Cherub or A1 models.

Function: It was towed behind a vessel to measure speed and distance covered at sea.

Components: The device consists of the brass spinner (shown) and a coupling that would have connected to a long line and a mechanical register.

48 1/2” long overall

33 “ rope w.coupler

15 1/2” Spinner

3 lbs 

$195

1-available