This Riviera White Star 5″ magnetic compass, model BW4, is a liquid-filled steering compass with a binnacle for small and low pedestals on sailboats. The low-profile design is suitable for locations where a low sprayhood or bimini restricts space above the pedestal. The compass is a standard version recommended for vessels up to 14 m.
The flat, black compass card has a visible diameter of 130 mm, 5° graduations, and heading numbers every 30°. Readings are taken from the rear against a red lubber line. An anti-glare screen and blue 24 V LED lighting ensure clear readability under varying light conditions.
The compass features an internal gimbal system and a built-in, manually adjustable compensation system. It is filled with Shell Sol D70 compass fluid, and an elastic diaphragm compensates for volume changes in the fluid to prevent bubble formation. The stable fluid temperature range is from −30 °C to +60 °C.
The BW4 measures approx. 181 × 181 × 176 mm, has a maximum base diameter of 181 mm, and an upper diameter of 169 mm. The binnacle is secured horizontally through four mounting holes using the supplied screws. The mounting location must be as far as possible from magnetic fields and moving ferrous objects, and the 24 V power supply must be checked before connecting the LED wires.
After installation, the compass must be compensated by an authorized professional using a non-magnetic screwdriver. The compass is a Class B compass and is type-approved according to DM 388 of 29 September 1999. The model is covered by MED 2014/90/EU, but an individual MED certificate is only included if ordered with the compass. The compass card must also be balanced for the geographic area of operation.
The compass is assembled in Genoa, Italy, is repairable, and has a 36-month manufacturer's warranty calculated from the production date stamped on the flange. Cleaning should be done with a soft cloth dampened with fresh water; filling plugs and other screws must not be opened. Non-included protective accessories include white covers with item no. 62.00180.01 and 62.00117.01, as well as textile cover 62.00062.01.
Key featuresWhite Star 5″ model BW4 for low pedestals
Liquid-filled magnetic steering compass with binnacle
130 mm black, flat compass card with 5° graduations
Rear-facing reading and red lubber line
Internal gimbal system and adjustable compensation
Blue 24 V LED lighting
Anti-glare screen
Product dimensions approx. 181 × 181 × 176 mm
Horizontal surface mounting through four mounting holes
Stable fluid temperature range from −30 °C to +60 °C
