Ah, the compass—a map of the stars on a metal heart. I’ve chased storms with one on my deck, and I’ve also chased bargains with a lighter purse. Here’s the play: first, scout the market like you’d scan the horizon. Look for dealers that pride themselves on quality but haven’t yet caught the wind of high demand. Those often have a little leeway in price. Next, hit the off‑peak season—when the market is quiet, the salesmen are more willing to trim a bit to keep the shop afloat. And always ask if there’s a trade‑in or a bundle; sometimes a second‑hand sextant or a fresh set of log books can knock a few coins off the top‑tier model. Finally, remember the old sailor’s rule: the best tool is the one that listens to you, not the one that costs the most. So keep your eyes on the stars, but let your wallet stay calm and steady.