Rare and complete Walker's "Excelsior" Yacht Log Mark III, manufactured by Thomas Walker & Son Ltd., Birmingham, England, and housed in its original fitted wooden case. This mechanical marine navigation instrument was used aboard yachts and commercial vessels to accurately measure speed and distance traveled through the water long before electronic navigation systems and GPS. The original instruction sheet remains affixed inside the lid and identifies the instrument as: Walker's "Excelsior" Yacht Log (Mark III) Manufactured by: Thomas Walker & Son Ltd.58 Oxford StreetBirmingham, England The case also retains its original marine supplier plaque: Kelvin & Wilfrid O. White Co.112 State StreetBoston, Massachusetts This example is notable for being a substantially complete surviving set, including the original towing mechanism, rotor assembly, line, register dial, and fitted storage box. Dimensions Length: 16" Width: 7" Height: 5.25" Features Complete Walker's Excelsior Yacht Log Mark III Original fitted wooden storage case Original manufacturer's instruction sheet Kelvin & Wilfrid O. White Boston dealer plaque Mechanical speed and distance recording system Towing rotor/fish assembly Original line Maritime navigation instrument Circa 1900–1925 Condition Good condition with expected age-related wear from maritime use and storage. Original labels remain present. The wooden case shows surface wear, scratches, and handling marks consistent with age. Components appear complete and retain an attractive original patina. Untested and offered as found. Historical Significance Walker's yacht logs were among the most respected marine navigation instruments of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. Towed astern behind a vessel, the rotor spun through the water and transmitted movement through a line to the recording mechanism, allowing mariners to determine vessel speed and distance traveled. Complete examples with original cases and documentation are increasingly difficult to find.
