I think it's a matter of doing the right thing vs. the need to
use it... a good habit to get into. Then, as with most habits,
you don't have to think about it.

I can't imagine that the few hours of direct sunlight
over the course of use would have a significant effect on
either the look or life of the compass. They're built for
use. Most of the damage caused to compass is typically
that someone washed the dome with a harsh chem or
left them uncovered for months at a time. According to
the same logic, you could leave your sails in their bags
because of the threat of premature damage. This would,
of course, be foolish.

"CANDChelp" wrote in message
...
No. He's right. You should uncover the compass. The minimal
amount of damage during the time you'd be using it on the water
from the sun is nothing.

Why expose an instrument for no reason, Ganzy? I've seen plenty of
compasses
killed early. Even my Radar in the cabin stays covered when switched off.

RB