French Country · Encyclopedia · Clocks, Instruments and Machines
Barometer
Instruments for measuring air pressure.
Scientific & Measuring Instruments · Indicative US retail $100–$3,000
At a glance
- Family: Scientific & Measuring Instruments
- Periods most often found: Most date from 1850 to 1930.
- Typical price: about $400; range $100 to $3,000 and more for exceptional pieces
- What drives value: Type, case
What it is
Barometers measure atmospheric pressure to forecast the weather, and were a fixture of 19th-century hallways. French aneroid barometers in carved and gilded Louis XVI-style cases with ribbons, crests and garlands are the most common in France; English banjo-shaped mercury barometers combine a thermometer, hygrometer and level; stick barometers and ship barometers are other types.
How to identify and date it
Aneroid barometers have a sealed metal capsule and a needle on a dial; mercury barometers have a glass tube and must be transported upright and carefully. Check that the needle moves when you tap the glass gently, that the dial is clean and the glass intact; carving, gilding and maker's or retailer's names on the dial add value.
Periods and styles
Most date from 1850 to 1930.
How much is it worth?
On the US retail market, most barometer examples ask around $400. Simple or worn pieces start near $100, while documented, signed or exceptional examples can pass $3,000. The main value drivers are: type, case. These are indicative ranges, not an appraisal; see our price guide for French antiques for the method.
Questions buyers ask: antique barometer - price guide. The answer depends on the points below, which are worth checking before you compare prices.
Before you buy
- Check the needle
- Inspect carving and dial
- Confirm glass
Living with it
A barometer in a hallway adds a classic, practical touch; tap it each morning as people did a century ago.
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How we write these guides: identification notes are general guidance written by French Country; a style name, a region or a resemblance does not by itself date or attribute a piece. Price ranges are indicative US retail asking prices for antique and vintage examples in sound condition (dealers, specialist marketplaces and auctions), estimated and rounded as of November 2026; check recent sold results before relying on a figure. They are not appraisals or offers to buy or sell: condition, provenance and documentation can move a value far outside the range. For insurance, estates or sales, ask an independent, qualified appraiser for a written valuation.