Windex 10 Wind Direction Indicator 250mm – Masthead Wind Vane

The Windex 10 Wind Direction Indicator 250mm (10") is a precision masthead wind vane designed for smaller cruising yachts, trailer sailers and racing sailboats.

Suitable for sailing boats approximately 3–6 metres (10–20 feet) long, the Windex 10 provides an immediate visual indication of apparent wind direction, helping sailors make informed decisions about sail trim, steering and upwind performance.

Featuring a low-friction sapphire jewel bearing, lightweight wind vane and adjustable tacking reference tabs, the Windex 10 is designed to respond to changing wind direction in both light and stronger breezes.

Reflective markings improve visibility in low-light conditions, making this a practical sailing instrument for recreational cruising and competitive sailing.

Available from Barton Marine NZ, the Windex 10 is an excellent choice for New Zealand sailors looking for a reliable, easy-to-read masthead wind direction indicator.

Key Features

• Genuine Windex 10 wind direction indicator

• 250mm (10-inch) vane length

• Designed for sailing boats approximately 3–6m (10–20ft)

• Provides visual apparent wind direction information

• Sapphire jewel suspension bearing for low-friction movement

• Lightweight, low-inertia vane for responsive operation

• Adjustable tacking reference tabs

• Reflective markings for improved day and night visibility

• Helps sailors assess wind angle and optimise sail trim

• Suitable for cruising and racing sailboats

• No batteries or electrical connection required for normal operation

• Practical masthead sailing accessory

• Designed for marine sailing environments

Technical Specifications

Accurate Apparent Wind Direction

Understanding apparent wind direction is essential for efficient sailing.

The Windex 10 provides a clear visual indication of the direction from which the apparent wind is approaching the boat.

Mounted at the masthead, the vane operates in relatively unobstructed airflow, allowing the sailor to monitor wind direction without relying solely on sail telltales or electronic instruments.

This visual information can help with:

• Steering a consistent course

• Adjusting sail trim

• Monitoring wind shifts

• Sailing upwind

• Assessing tacking angles

• Improving overall sailing efficiency

Because the Windex displays apparent wind direction, its reading is influenced by both the true wind and the boat's movement.

Sapphire Jewel Bearing for Responsive Movement

A key feature of the Windex 10 is its sapphire jewel suspension bearing.

This precision bearing helps minimise friction, allowing the lightweight vane to respond to changes in wind direction.

The low-inertia construction is particularly useful in light winds, where a heavier or less sensitive indicator may respond more slowly.

The result is a responsive visual reference that helps sailors recognise changes in apparent wind direction.

Adjustable Tacking Reference Tabs

The Windex 10 includes adjustable reference tabs that can be positioned to provide visual guidance when sailing upwind.

Once set to suit the boat and sailing conditions, the tabs help the helmsman compare the apparent wind angle on port and starboard tacks.

This can be useful for maintaining consistent upwind steering and identifying changes in wind direction.

The reference tabs are a sailing aid rather than a substitute for proper sail trim and boat handling.

Reflective Markings for Improved Visibility

Reflective markings on the wind vane and reference tabs make the Windex 10 easier to see in low-light conditions when illuminated.

This is particularly useful for sailors operating early in the morning, late in the evening or during night sailing.

Visibility will depend on ambient lighting, viewing angle and the availability of a suitable light source.