This magnetic marine compass from the Ritchie Explorer series is the S-53W model for surface or deck mounting. It features a white housing and a direct-reading, white compass dial with a diameter of 70 mm. The compact, low-profile design is intended as a steering and navigation compass on boats.
The compass has built-in compensators for correcting fixed deviation. The correction system consists of two magnet sets on separate adjustment rods, and a small non-magnetic screwdriver is included for the adjustment. DirectiveForce magnets contribute to rapid stabilization on course, while the compass movement uses a custom sapphire jewel bearing and a hardened steel pivot.
The green night lighting connects to a suitably fused 12 V circuit. Polarity does not need to be observed, and the light wire can be routed either out the back or down through the base. The compass features a movable sun shield, which improves readability under changing light conditions.
The housing is made of a high-temperature resistant composite and measures a maximum of 93 mm in width and 73 mm in height. The compass module can be released from the base using the release buttons on the sides, allowing it to be removed for safe storage. The construction is serviceable and repairable, and the product comes with a five-year warranty.
The base's slotted holes allow for first centering the mounting screws and then making the final parallel adjustment relative to the boat's centerline. The included adhesive mounting pads can be used for a drill-free installation. Any mounting screws must be chosen according to the mounting surface and be non-magnetic. The mounting location must be kept free of disturbing magnetic fields from, among other things, live cables, electrical equipment, and ferrous objects.
The S-53W is generally suitable for powerboats up to 7.32 m (24 ft). The manufacturer part number is S-53W, while S-53-WCLM and S-53W-CLM are documented alternative model designations. Product-specific spare parts include, among others, white sun shield EX-0121, white 5° compass dial EX-0124 ASY, white mounting base EX-0175, and complete base assembly EX-0175 ASY. The standard lighting uses the 12 V light source EX-0005 and lamp assembly EX-0022 ASY.
Key FeaturesSurface and deck mounting
White 70 mm direct-reading compass dial
5° scale graduation
Built-in compensators for deviation correction
Green night lighting for 12 V
Max. width 93 mm and height 73 mm
Removable compass module and movable sun shield
Adhesive mounting pads and adjustment tool included
High-temperature resistant composite housing
Five-year warranty
