A very rare WW1 French Spad, or similar aircraft altimeter by the renowned makers L. Maxant, Paris.

The instrument is in excellent original condition and retains the outer leather case. Unusually this altimeter is plated, so is not the usual brass finish, making it a rather handsome instrument.

When in use it was fixed within a sprung cradle to reduce vibration from the engine.

It responds well to atmospheric pressure variations and can be set to the correct altitude.

This altimeter would make a fine addition to any early aeronautical collection.