This volume presents a detailed history of the astrolable as well as a complete and spectacularly illustrated catalogue of 34 astrolabes and related devices. Full bibliography and index. 365 illustrations (281 b/w and 84 full color).
My own personal indulgence. The mostly clearly presented explanation of how astrolabes work combined with luscious photography of those in their collection. Only superseded many years later by the Adler's catalog.