Nautical Odometer

Ship's nautical odometer used to determine the distance travelled by a vessel during an ocean journey. The instrument employs analogue technology using a cable and vane system which is lowered into the ocean. The rotation of the metal vane through the water sends a signal to the odometer through an electrical cable. The current generated powers the instrument panel which records the nautical mileage that the vessel has travelled. The odometer is made from brass and features three calibration dials indicating distance travelled in nautical miles. The cable attached to the odometer is approximately ten meters long and has been severed from the power supply. The clock face of the odometer has a lockable hinged brass lid with a glass cover which can be opened to adjust the instrument settings as required.

This nautical odometer was captured by the Royal Australian Navy Clearance Diver Team during the 2003 Iraq War. The odometer was captured by a boarding party from HMAS Kanimbla after intercepting the Iraqi tug Jumariya. This instrument is a Ship's nautical odometer used to determine the distance travelled by a vessel during an ocean journey. The instrument employs analogue technology using a cable and vane system which is lowered into the ocean. The rotation of the metal vane through the water sends a signal to the odometer through an electrical cable. The current generated powers the instrument panel which records the nautical mileage that the vessel has travelled.