A gimbal compass is used for nautical use to keep the compass upright with respect to the horizon despite the ship's pitching and rolling. Our gimbal compass is a fully functioning solid polished brass compass for actual use or decorative nautical addition to a desk, mantle or end table. - 6-1/2" in height - Compass is 2-5/8" in diameter - Solid, polished brass - Includes true North functional, magnetic compass needle with geographic cardinal directions - Great addition to any interior nautical decor