New Mexico Mineral Symposium — Abstracts

A Canadian-born Colorado geologist named David W. Brunton patented an innovative tool for mineral exploration in 1894. Brunton’s compass, officially designed as the “Brunton Pocket Transit,” is an instrument that is legendary in the United States. The William Ainsworth Company in Denver, Colorado, manufactured it for over 75 years with the Brunton name engraved on the cover. Because of that long association between the Brunton® name and the pocket transit, most field geologists simply refer to it as a "Brunton.” His compact design, which combined several existing tools into one, has proven to be innovative, extremely rugged, and versatile, unequalled in its portability and workmanship.

The Brunton continues to be an essential tool for many types of fieldwork today. Collecting vintage Bruntons is a pleasing way to connect with our geological roots, early science innovators, and the mineral industry. It appeals to those who appreciate fine precision instruments of science and also to those who grasp the human connection to the person who once made their living in part by using it. Because the Brunton has always been difficult to obtain and pricey in any era, they have often been cautiously used and cared for by people like us. This discussion will probe the history of David W. Brunton, the evolution of his transit, and the marvelous high-quality examples that are still available to collectors. Like most precious and rare items, there exist inevitable fakes and rip-offs to be avoided.