This exceptionally rare and early, 1807 Second Edition of the Practical Navigator measures approx. 5 3/4” by 9 1/8” and contains 679 pages plus a one page, publisher’s advert at the rear. The Volume is near complete with 9 of the 10 called for plates present (lacking Plate VI) and lacking the folding, frontis Chart. There are various owner inscriptions on the endpapers dated 1811and 1816.

    First published in 1802, the "New American Practical Navigator" (also known simply as "Bowditch") was the 19th century navigation "Bible". It was regularly updated to reflect the changing methods of Navigation and advances in maritime knowledge. It includes chapters on celestial navigation, dead reckoning, compass error, navigation, sextants, sight reduction, identification of the stars, eclipses, climate, oceans, tides etc. Extensively illustrated with charts, maps, figures and diagrams.

    This important, early edition of Bowditch’s American Practical Navigator is bound in its original, full leather binding which is warn. The spine and the block are intact and sound with only one signature partially loose. The leather is worn with loss at the spine ends and edges. As stated above, the interior pages are near complete – all text pages are present as are 9 of the 10 called for plates. The Volume also lacks the original, folding frontis Map. The interior pages and plates are age toned and exhibit scattered foxing. There is also a thin, 1 ½” “cut” to the outer edge of the leaves of the second half of the Volume.

    Having been buying and selling Antiques here on Cape Cod for 46+ years, we have handled quite a few examples of Bowditch’s Practical Navigator. We have seen only three other example of the 2nd Edition in all those years and those examples were incomplete in one way or another. This 1807, 2nd Edition is exceptionally rare and worthy of a place in even the most advanced, Marine Library or Collection. There are presently four examples of the 2nd Edition being offered for sale by Antiquarian Booksellers – all are lacking plates or text pages and they range in price from $795 to $1500.

    An exceptionally rare and original, 1807 Second Edition of the "American Practical Navigator" – near complete (lacking only the folding Chart and one plate) - and a fantastic addition to any Marine Collection or Library!!!