Ritchie Globemaster 5" marine compass is a magnetic compass for pedestal mounting on powerboats and sailboats. The open, flat card is read from above and features a black background with white markings and 5° graduations.
The compass features a full internal gimbal system and a PowerDamp dial, which dampens rotation and oscillations at high speeds or in rough seas. Lubber lines at 45° and 90° assist with reading from various angles, while built-in compensators can be used to correct for fixed deviation.
The black SP-5B version features a textured finish and a glass-reinforced Valox bowl. The construction includes a hardened steel pivot, sapphire bearing, DirectiveForce magnets, and liquid-filled dampening. The compass is fully serviceable, made in the USA, and covered by a five-year manufacturer's warranty.
The compass card has a diameter of 127 mm. The compass's outer diameter is approximately 184 mm, and the total height is approximately 181 mm. The primary bolt circle for pedestal mounting is 133.3 mm. The mounting template also shows a 166.6 mm bolt circle for older SP-5 deck mounts.
The green LED night lighting is powered by 12 V. During installation, the mounting surface must be level, and the compass's centerline must be placed parallel to the boat's centerline. The compass must be kept clear of magnetic interference from sources such as steel, high-current cables, speakers, wiper motors, and other electrical equipment. The lighting circuit must be properly fused; a 1 A fuse is sufficient.
The GM-5-C protective cover and WS-P weather/sun shield are available as separate accessories. Relevant replacement kits for the lighting include GM-0087 XSP for 12 V green light, GM-0091 XSP for 24 V green light, SH-0175 XSP for 12 V red light, and SH-0305 XSP for 12-24 V red light. When servicing the liquid-filled 5" Globemaster series, Isopar L is used as the dampening fluid.
Key FeaturesPedestal-mounted magnetic marine compass
5" / 127 mm black compass card
White 5° graduations
Open flat-card dial for reading from above
PowerDamp dampening and full gimbal system
Built-in compensators
45° and 90° lubber lines
Green 12 V LED night lighting
Outer diameter approx. 184 mm and height approx. 181 mm
Fully serviceable construction
