: On modern sailboats, the binnacle often doubles as a pedestal for the steering wheel and houses electronic chartplotters, depth sounders, and engine controls.
One of the most recognizable designs is the Kelvin-White binnacle, which features two distinctive iron spheres—often called "Navigator’s Balls" or Flinders bars. binnacle
In contemporary maritime use, the binnacle has evolved beyond a simple compass housing. : On modern sailboats, the binnacle often doubles
: The aesthetic of the binnacle has even influenced luxury goods, such as the Bernhardt Binnacle series of watches, reflecting its status as a symbol of precision and exploration. : The aesthetic of the binnacle has even
: High-quality binnacles were often made of brass or copper to remain non-magnetic and withstand harsh salt-spray environments. Evolution in Modern Sailing
: These spheres act as "compensators" to neutralize the magnetic interference from the ship’s own hull.