BACKGROUND: Map/dispatch cases were issued on a limited basis to specifically designated personnel such as unit commanders, messengers, and observers. The M35 map/dispatch case was based on the Weimar Reichswehr, (National Defence Force, Circa 1919-1933), era pattern map/dispatch case with minor variations. The M35 map/dispatch case underwent a front closure modification in mid-1936, and an additional small front pocket was added in 1938, although the early pattern cases continued to be manufactured through-out the war. When issued the map/dispatch cases came complete with an assortment of map reading and plotting tools and instruments including a march compass. The march compasses came in a wide variety of different models but they were all quite similar in design. Of Note: As with other armies the Germans had a Kriegskarten- und Vermessungswesen Abteilung, (War Maps and Surveying Department), under command of the OKH, Oberkommando des Heeres, (High Command of the Army). The war maps and surveying department was responsible for all army issue maps and worked in conjunction with the German Reichsamt für Landesaufnahme, (National Land Survey Office). Regulations dictated that army issue maps were exclusively for use of army personnel and that any reproduction or improper usage were punishable offences. German army maps were generally named and numbered and were issued as required.

PHYSICAL DESCRIPTION: Roughly, 2 1/8" diameter, 3/4" thick, black painted, brass construction field march compass with a fold back top lid with an internal bar hinge. The bottom edge of the compass has a hinged, fold back, fifty millimeter ruler with impressed markings. The fold back top lid opens to reveal an internal, hinged, polished nickel/silver plated alloy "mirror". The mirror opens to reveal a glass faced compass with white degree markings, luminous dots at the four, major, cardinal directional points, (North, South, East & West), and true North and a movable, white, directional arm on a black background field. The outer edge of the compass has a diamond grooved dial to allow for directional orientation and a small inset locking clip. The forward edge of the compass has an inset, circular, suspension ring. Nicely marked "clk 122070". Original and rare tropical lanyard is included. The compass still functions. Nice map/dispatch case accessory.