FitzRoy's highly respected name was associated with several different types of barometers (though whether he could be called the inventor of all of them is questionable) made by a number of different makers. Pictured right is an example of a FitzRoy storm barometer with its Wet and Dry bulb thermometers flanking a central thermometer gauge complete with the trademark 'special remarks', which give the admiral's advice on predicting the weather. Housed in a modest oak case (typically domestic instruments are more ornate than the storm type) this example by Negretti & Zambra included a silver presentation cartouche inscribed Presented by William McClure Esq, Chairman 1872.
The highlight of the sale conducted by Glasgow auctioneers McTears (15% buyer's premium) from the Greenock Club, Greenock on June 23, it sold for £2300 (estimate £500-800).
FitzRoy and forecasts – the perfect mix
ADMIRAL Robert FitzRoy (1805-1865) has several claims to fame. He was companion to Darwin on the Beagle, the first Head of Meteorology at the Board of Trade (the Met Office) and, using the newly invented electric telegraph, one of the first to attempt a scientific weather forecast. His first daily weather forecasts were published in The Times in 1860, thus introducing the British public to a new pastime – complaining that the forecasters got it wrong.