Design
This wall barometer combines precision measuring technology with a design typical of its time. The round instrument is set into a wide, light-coloured brass faceplate with a narrow rim. On the left, three stylised circles with long rays evoke wind and stormy weather. On the right, an abstract sun represents fair weather.
At the centre is the black-and-gold dial with two atmospheric-pressure scales and the German weather markings “Sturm” (storm), “Veränderlich” (changeable) and “Schön” (fair). Parts of the mechanical measuring mechanism are visible through the glazed opening. The combination of geometric shapes, brass and the contrasting dial gives this barometer its characteristic 1960s appearance.
Technology
The barometer measures atmospheric pressure using a mechanical aneroid mechanism. Inside, largely evacuated metal capsules respond to changes in external air pressure. Their minute movements are transmitted to the pointer through a system of precision mechanical linkages.
The scale shows atmospheric pressure in both millibars (mbar) and Torr. An additional reference pointer, adjustable by hand, makes changes in air pressure easier to observe.
Before weather forecasts were readily available on the internet and smartphones, barometers like this were used in many households to observe the weather from day to day.
The instrument was made by Feingerätebau Fischer in Drebach in Germany’s Ore Mountains (Erzgebirge). The maker’s mark on the back, reading “Feingerätebau Fischer – Germany”, documents its origin.
Manufacturer
Feingerätebau K. Fischer GmbH
Drebach
· Ore Mountains – Saxony
· Germany
The history of Feingerätebau K. Fischer GmbH began in 1945, when aeronautical engineer Kurt Fischer founded a precision engineering workshop in Drebach in the Ore Mountains of Saxony. The first barometers were produced as early as 1946, followed by other meteorological measuring instruments.
The small workshop grew into a company whose precise, durable instruments soon became known beyond Germany. In 1958, the business accepted state participation and began operating as Feingerätebau Kurt Fischer KG. Alongside meteorological equipment, it also developed instruments for aviation, including microbarographs and altitude recorders.
During the 1960s, Bernd Fischer played an important role in the company's technical development. His research into hygrometry helped establish the excellent reputation of Fischer measuring instruments. In 1965, a six-part aneroid barometer movement was patented.
In 1972, the company was expropriated during the nationalization of private businesses in East Germany and continued operating as VEB Feingerätebau Drebach. The Fischer brand was retained because of its international recognition. Members of the founding family also continued working at the factory.
Following German reunification, the company was returned to private ownership in 1990. It came back into the hands of the Fischer family and adopted its present name, Feingerätebau K. Fischer GmbH. A modern production facility was built in Drebach in 1997.
The following years brought economic challenges and a restructuring of the business. After a period of insolvency, operations continued under a new ownership structure in 2015. Traditional precision engineering remained central to production.
In 2012, Fischer took over the manufacture of mechanical measuring instruments under the LUFFT brand. The long-established BARIGO brand joined the business in 2024, expanding its range to include marine barometers, thermometers and other onboard instruments.
Today, the company continues to produce mechanical precision instruments in Drebach, including barometers, hygrometers, thermometers and weather stations. Its instruments combine traditional precision craftsmanship with decades of expertise in measurement technology.
In 2025, Fischer celebrated its 80th anniversary, reflecting a history that spans the rebuilding years after World War II, nationalization in East Germany and the precision instrument workshop of today.
Sources:
https://fischer-barometer.de/fischer/geschichte
https://www.manufactum.de/feingeraetebau-k-fischer-c202447/
https://proinn.eu/erfolgsstories/fischer-feingeraetebau/
https://www.toplicht.de/barigo/
