Could easily put in a bulkhead mounted compass in the back of the cabin for half that price or less. Then you just need to cover the top of the pedestal. I have seen many creative solutions to that problem, many involving conveniently sized buckets and varying degrees of modification / fiberglass moulding / etc.

Although we don't use it for serious long distance navigation, we do use it for general navigation and one day outings. I continually refer to it when at the helm and sitting on the side, looking at the "marks" along the side of the compass. I'm sorry but I don't recall the proper nomenclature for these.

Check with Minney's in Newport Beach, CA and/or any boat salvage yards.

Good Luck

I prefer having a real ship's compass on the binnacle, but removing it would leave room for one hell of a cup holder!

There're called "Lubber lines".

Thanks. It's been a number of years since I needed to refer to them. However, as I said, I use them regularly when at the helm.

Mike,
I would think long and hard before I cut a hole in the bulkhead for a new compass. Once done it cannot be undone. If/when you go to sell you boat, a prospective buyer would be wondering what other short-cuts have been taken on the boat, IMHO. Bulkhead compasses are great if you have a tiller, but with a wheel, the binacle compass is there for a reason. I second the idea of checking with consignment shops and second-hand stores. You might even check with Ritchie. They may have some refurb models that are almost as good as new. Just a thought.