The Stormglass was, so far as we know, first used in about 1750 by sailing ships to predict stormy weather. The first proper report concerning its use on board a ship stems from the Darwin Expedition in 1831-1836. On 27th December 1831, Charles Darwin set off on HMS Beagle under the command of Captain Fitzroy (the future Admiral of the Fleet), who throughout his career at sea and on land used the Stormglass. Fitzroy was also a meteorologist and later became director of the British Meteorological Office. The Stormglass is a reliable barometer which predicts the weather by the formation and changes of fernlike crystals in the fluid filled tube. Everybody who has one will consult it daily to see what the weather is going to do in the next 24 hours or so! There is no doubt that the Stormglass works. However, to date nobody has been able to provide a scientific explanation as to exactly why. Admiral Fitzroy, believed that it was down to static electricity in the fields around us. A revolutionary thought at the time! For optimum use, place the Stormglass in a cool place, for example in a north-facing window or on a boat. As the name suggests, the Stormglass is best at predicting stormy weather within the next 24- to 48-hour period. The Stormglass does not completely replace the barometer - but it is a good supplement. Always remember to listen to the weather forecast! Details Solid brass housing Wall/bulkhead mountable Height: 145mm How To Reset Your Stormglass Sometimes due to shipping the Stormglass crystals can get “stuck” - With the crystals just sitting at the bottom and storm glass not working correctly. Crystals can stay that way for weeks, if not months, even when the weather drastically changes. If you aren't seeing any changes in your stormglass, then chances are you need to reset it. Resetting your storm glass is simple, carefully place it in a plastic container filled with mildly hot tap water and leave it there for about 20-40 minutes. You can gently shake the glass every 5-10 minutes to move crystals around and speed up the process. Repeat the process until all crystals dissolve and the liquid inside the weather glass becomes completely clear. Once you reset your storm glass, dry it with a towel and let it cool down for 5-10 minutes. Place it near a window or outer air and within a few hours the liquid inside your storm glass will begin to crystalize - from now on it should work properly and be reactive to weather changes, as long as it has been mounted in a suitable place.
About Force 4 Chandlery:
Supplying sailing equipment to sailors & boaters for 40+ years, offering quality & value for money.
Visit Product Page
