This Ritchie Wheelmark 3″ magnetic compass is a fixed surface-mount steering compass from the Voyager series. Model S-87-WM features a black housing, black card, and a visible card diameter of 3″/76 mm. The version is type-approved for workboats and classified as a MED/4.23 Class B magnetic compass for lifeboats.
The CombiDamp card can be read from both the front and above. The DirectiveForce magnet system is designed for rapid stabilization on course, while a matched sapphire jewel bearing and a hardened steel pivot support the compass movement. Built-in compensators allow for the correction of fixed magnetic deviation, and the movable sunshield can be adjusted to the reading direction.
The built-in green LED lighting is powered by 12 V and consists of two light sets. The high-temperature-resistant composite housing measures 115 mm in total width and 83 mm in height. The model is made in the USA, is fully serviceable, and comes with a 5-year manufacturer's warranty.
The compass is mounted on a flat, horizontal surface and aligned parallel to the boat's centerline. When mounting on a curved or sloping surface, a suitable leveling block must be used. Use non-magnetic mounting hardware and place the compass with minimal interference from speakers, magnets, iron, steel, live cables, wiper motors, and other instruments. The mounting location should have no more than 15° of deviation on the four cardinal directions.
The Wheelmark version is covered by the Marine Equipment Directive 2014/90/EU and meets relevant requirements in SOLAS, the LSA Code, the HSC codes, ISO 1069, ISO 25862, and IEC 60945. Module B certificate DK-MED000099 Issue 05 specifically covers the surface-mount S-87-WM and is valid from April 29, 2026, to April 28, 2031.
Documented service parts include the SH-0195 KIT with green 12 V replacement lighting and the SH-0202 KIT with alternative red 12 V lighting. Protective cover V-83-C is compatible with the S-87 series. Installation and maintenance are described in manual SH-0221 and the model-specific supplement VY-0193.
Key featuresSurface-mount Wheelmark magnetic compass
3″/76 mm black CombiDamp card
Reading from both front and above
Green 12 V LED lighting with two light sets
Built-in compensators for deviation correction
Movable sunshield
High-temperature-resistant composite housing
Total width 115 mm and height 83 mm
MED/4.23 Class B certified
Type-approved for workboats
