Barometers Realm

This early 20th-century Imperial Russia Nickel-Plated Aneroid Barometer by the renowned Berlin manufacturer Otto Bohne is a refined example of scientific instrumentation that elegantly combines the precision of meteorological design with the expressive aesthetics of interior decor.

The mirror-finished case, made of nickel-plated brass, features a suspension ring at the top and bears the company’s logo—interlocking initials “OB” within an oval—on the back. Two small threaded holes at the bottom suggest that the instrument was originally equipped with legs for tabletop display. Unlike the standard 135 mm marine-style brass-cased aneroids, this barometer has a more compact 125 mm diameter.

The exposed dial is crafted from dense cardboard and features a dual concentric scale: the outer one calibrated in centimeters of mercury, the inner in inches of mercury. The scale is enriched with detailed weather indications in Russian, printed in pre-revolutionary orthography using uppercase serif letters.

This barometric scale reflects a thoughtful adaptation of meteorological instruments to the climatic and geographical conditions of European Russia, as well as to the practical needs of users. It accounts for the lower average pressure caused by elevation above sea level, typical synoptic patterns, and household weather forecasting requirements. A pressure of 750 mmHg aligns with the label “ПЕРЕМѢННО” (CHANGE), accurately representing unstable weather. Readings above or below that point indicate a transition toward fair or rainy conditions. In the European part of Russia—especially cities like Moscow (150–180 meters above sea level)—the average atmospheric pressure is lower than the sea-level standard of 760 mmHg. A typical range in such areas is around 740–755 mmHg, making 750 mmHg a neutral value signaling transitional weather between cyclonic and anticyclonic phases. The “ПЕРЕМѢННО” (CHANGE) label at 750 mmHg thus corresponds to variable cloud cover, possible light precipitation, or clearing skies—typical of the temperate continental climate of central Russia.

The dial is protected by thick mineral glass with a faceted edge, centrally fitted with a knurled brass knob that adjusts the trend pointer located beneath the glass. The glass is held in place by a tightly fitted, thin nickel-plated bezel, with a reflective silver ring surrounding the dial.

At the heart of the instrument lies a 45 mm sensitive aneroid capsule with a tensioned C-shaped leaf spring and a lever mechanism made of brass. Movements of the capsule walls are transmitted to the needle shaft, which rotates a blued steel hand shaped like a crescent-feathered pointer.

This barometer not only exemplifies the fusion of scientific precision and decorative elegance, but also reflects a rare export model tailored specifically for the Russian market.