Question 1

Is this a real working compass?

Accepted Answer

Yes — the compass has a functional magnetic needle, and the sundial gnomon casts a shadow to approximate the time when oriented correctly.

Question 2

Is this an antique original?

Accepted Answer

No. This is an antique-finish reproduction — newly manufactured with a vintage patina to evoke the look and feel of a genuine heirloom.

Question 3

What material is it made from?

Accepted Answer

Solid brass with an antique-finish treatment, with optional leather or wood presentation cases.

Question 4

What is the difference between the $55 and $89 compass?

Accepted Answer

The $55 Compass Only is the antique brass compass with no engraving. The $89 Personalized Compass adds photo, text, name, date, handwriting, logo or your own design engraving.

Question 5

Can I engrave a photo?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Upload a clear, well-lit photo and we will prepare it for laser engraving on the top lid.

Question 6

Can I engrave my own handwriting?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Choose "My Handwriting" and upload a clear photo or scan of your handwriting on white paper. We engrave your original handwriting — it is not converted to a typed font.

Question 7

Can I engrave both the top lid and the back?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The most popular combination is a photo on the top lid and a message on the back.

Question 8

What type of photo works best?

Accepted Answer

A clear, well-lit, high-resolution photo with good contrast and visible faces produces the sharpest engraving.

Question 9

Can I upload my own design or logo?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Choose "My Own Design" to upload artwork (PNG, JPG, PDF, SVG). We will prepare it for engraving.

Question 10

Can every compass in a bulk order have a different name?

Accepted Answer

Yes. For corporate orders you can provide a list of individual names and messages — each compass is engraved separately.

Question 11

What is the minimum corporate order?

Accepted Answer

The minimum for corporate/bulk pricing is 25 units. For a firm per-unit price, request a quote on our Corporate Gifts page.

Question 12

How does volume pricing work?

Accepted Answer

For orders of 25 or more, contact us for a firm per-unit price and production date — we quote each bulk order individually.

Question 13

Can I request a corporate quote?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Visit our Corporate Gifts page or use the quote form to tell us your quantity, package preference, and personalization needs.

Question 14

What is the leather case?

Accepted Answer

A premium embossed leather case with a vintage compass-rose design — the perfect protective companion for your compass.

Question 15

What is the wooden presentation box?

Accepted Answer

A wooden display box with a lined interior that turns the compass into a presentation-worthy heirloom.

Question 16

How long does personalization take?

Accepted Answer

Personalization and production typically take 1–3 business days (1 business day for express orders), followed by shipping.

Question 17

Can I preview my personalization?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our live preview shows your photo and text on the compass as you build it. The final engraving is professionally prepared.

Question 18

Is it gift-ready?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every order is carefully packaged, and the Complete Gift Set arrives ready to present.

Contact The Engravers Shop