Promo Code Captain'S Nautial Books & Charts 2026: Up to 20% OFF May

In 1897, Captain'S Nautial Books & Charts, formerly known as Max Kuner Company, opened its doors in Seattle, Washington, just a few doors down the hall from the U. S. Customs Office. During the Klondike Gold Rush, Seattle piqued Max Kuner's interest. Business was booming, and Seattle was the major deep-water railhead seaport closest to home in the continental United States. Max Kuner, a German immigrant's son, took advantage of the port's need for ships to navigate. Captain'S Nautial Books & Charts was an expert in nautical charts and maps, made watches, and provided services as a nautical optometrist. Anna took over the business when Max died in the 1930s, and she did so until her death in 1943. Tom Williamson, an employee watchmaker, purchased the business and carried on the tradition until his death in 1949. Leonard Schrock, a native of Seattle, served in the Navy as a compass adjuster during World War II and graduated from the University of Washington.