Large 114×96×135mm Compass with Light – Marine Compass for Yachts (Black/White)

This large marine compass offers exceptional readability and accuracy, which are especially beneficial for medium to large vessels on extended voyages. With its substantial dimensions of 114 x 96 x 135 mm, it features a bigger dome and compass card compared to standard small compasses. This means larger numbers and gradations that can be easily read even when you’re standing a bit away from it or when the boat is moving fast over waves. The large dome provides a wide viewing angle of the dial – the skipper can glance over from the helm and immediately see the heading without squinting or moving closer.

Illumination & Visibility: The compass is equipped with a bright 12V backlight, which evenly illuminates the entire card during night passages. This is crucial for navigation at dusk or in the dark – the directions and numbers glow clearly, eliminating the need for a flashlight on the compass. The prominent lubber line (course marker) is applied on the inside of the clear dome and serves to orient the compass to the vessel’s heading. Together with the large dial diameter, this makes holding your set course much easier, since any deviation from course is immediately apparent.

Precision Dial: The compass card on this model is graduated to professional standards – a tick mark at every 5° and bold numbers at every 30°. Because of the dial’s larger size, the numerals (e.g., 0, 30, 60... 330) are bigger and thicker, which helps with legibility in bright sun or when the boat is vibrating. This precise gradation allows the helmsman to maintain an accurate heading or make fine course adjustments – important during long crossings where even a 5–10° deviation can take a yacht off its optimal route.

Installation & Build: The compass is installed via flush mounting on a horizontal surface, typically the helm dashboard or console. Due to its larger size, you’ll need an appropriate space – roughly a 114 x 96 mm cutout for the base. Once installed, only the hemispherical dome and the graduated ring are visible above the panel, resulting in a professional-looking helm where the compass is a central, easy-to-see feature. The construction includes a sturdy bracket or through-bolts for securing it from below, ensuring stability even under heavy vibration.

The dome is liquid-filled, similar to smaller compasses but with greater volume – this provides additional stability. In heavy seas or sharp maneuvers, the compass card quickly settles and doesn’t swing wildly out of control. The housing is made of durable ABS or similar polymer, built for long-term outdoor use. This compass is made to withstand years of service under blazing sun, in salty marine air, and with frequent spray – it won’t crack or fade easily.

Advantages Underway: In practice, having such a large compass on your boat or yacht greatly increases confidence in navigation. At higher speeds (for instance, on a fast powerboat), the larger dial allows you to monitor your course without taking your eyes off the horizon for too long. In rough seas or poor visibility, when electronic instruments might fail or be hard to interpret, an analog compass with illumination remains a reliable reference. Many seasoned mariners insist on a big compass as a backup navigation tool because it doesn’t rely on electronics or satellites.

Who It’s For: This model is recommended for vessels around 5–6 meters (16–20 feet) and up – sailboats, cruisers, cabin motorboats, as well as professional fishing vessels. On such craft, where crew or the helmsman may be at a bit of distance from the instruments, the large compass ensures that anyone can see the heading at a glance. It’s also an excellent choice for captains who prefer traditional navigation and want a dependable, physical instrument on the bridge. The compass is available in two housing colors – black (SF80305-1) or white (SF80305-2) – to match your dashboard’s aesthetic.

With this compass onboard, you have a reliable “heads-up display” for your direction – large, bright, and always functional, no matter the circumstances. It’s an essential tool for safe and efficient navigation, providing peace of mind on every journey.