Vintage Brass Ship Taffrail Log

Vintage Brass ship’s taffrail log 1890-1920’s Commonly referred to as a “fish” or spinner. A total length of 48 1/2” inches (measuring the rotator, connecting line, and governor piece together) confirms this is a full-sized, standard commercial or naval version rather than a smaller yacht variant. Used by major maritime suppliers like Thomas Walker & Son (Birmingham, England) for their commercial ship lines, such as the Cherub or A1 models. Function: It was towed behind a vessel to measure speed and distance covered at sea. Components: The device consists of the brass spinner (shown) and a coupling that would have connected to a long line and a mechanical register. 48 1/2” long overall 33 “ rope w.coupler 15 1/2” Spinner 3 lbs $195 1-available