The top of the sundial is hinged and a curved scale is used to set your local latitude angle. The magnetic compass allows the sundial to be oriented North. The compass features a needle lift mechanism to protect the compass's jeweled bearing when being transported. There are three adjustable legs that are used to precisely level the sundial. The sun's shadow cast by the sundial's vane marks the local time. The top of the sundial can lay down flat, and both the latitude scale and the sundial vane are hinged to lay flat for compact storage. The sundial measures 4 1/2 inches (11.4 cm) tall, 2 inches (5.1 cm) tall when collapsed, the body of the compass is 2 7/8 inches (7.3 cm) in diameter, and the sundial weighs 14 ounces (397 grams). The sundial compass has a antique brass patina finish.