A magnetic compass comprises a case having a transparent cover and a magnetic compass card having a hub, which is rotatably supported on a central shaft projecting up from the base of the case by bearings comprising a thrust bearing between the hub and the upper end of the shaft and a radial bearing between the hub and a portion of the shaft spaced downwardly from the upper end. The radial bearing comprises a bearing ring set in a central recess in the hub and a full circle of small balls between the bearing ring and the shaft. In one embodiment there are two such radial bearings located one below the other. The bearings rotatably support the compass card on the shaft and retain it approximately perpendicular to the shaft even if the case is tilted.
