Answers from America's World Globe Authority
Whether you are a first-time buyer or a collector of fine cartography, we are here to help. Below are the answers to the most common questions regarding globe care, features, and geography.
General Globe Knowledge
Why are globes tilted?
Most globes are made to tilt at an angle of 23.5º to match the actual tilt of the earth in relationship to our sun. Incidentally, it is this tilting of the earth relative to the sun, rather than its changing distance from the sun, that causes the seasons to change and gives us more daylight hours at certain times of the year.
How do you find a place on a globe? (Latitude & Longitude)
Because a globe is round with no beginning or end, there are two imaginary reference lines from which all distances and locations are determined—the Equator and Prime Meridian.
- Equator: Runs east and west around the exact middle of the globe.
- Prime Meridian: Imaginary line running from pole to pole and passing through Greenwich, England.
- Longitude: Imaginary lines running parallel with the Prime Meridian through each pole and numbered in 15º increments.
- Latitude: Imaginary lines running around the globe parallel to the equator and are numbered at 10º or 15º increments.
Locations are uniquely identified by the point where these lines intersect. For example, Dallas, Texas is located at 33º North (latitude) and 97º West (longitude).
Why a globe instead of an atlas?
An atlas complements a globe and a globe complements an atlas. When used together, each has features that become excellent references and teaching tools. The advantage of a globe is that the world in its entirety is depicted on a sphere, showing land masses, countries, and regions in true proportion. In addition, globes are an attractive decorative accessory for both home and office.
Which place names are used on globes?
Subject to space limitations, most companies attempt to list all nations and capitals, then the biggest city in that country or state, or an important city. The US Government has a list of names for cities and countries outside North America that they call 'conventional' names. They are easier to understand than the literal translation and are why our maps show Finland, for example, and not Suomi.
How often are globes updated?
Most manufacturers have a policy of updating a map every time it's printed. Although the names or boundaries of countries can change due to wars or other political upheavals, most changes are simple name changes that are relatively easy to make. The policy by Replogle is that when the U.S. State Department recognizes the changes as being a fact, we implement the changes into our system.
Features & Styles
What's the difference between beige (Antique) and blue colored globes?
Antique (Beige) Globes: Produced to resemble ancient parchment with an "Old World" appearance. While the aesthetic is vintage, the geographic information is fully up-to-date. These are often preferred for executive offices and home decor.
Blue Ocean Globes: Feature ocean areas in blue and usually consist of highly contrasting, colorful, political boundaries. Children and educators often prefer the realistic appearance of these globes.
What is Raised Relief?
Globes with "raised relief" have a texture that emphasizes the mountainous areas of the world, allowing you to see and feel the terrain. This feature is typically found on 9", 12", and 16" non-illuminated press craft globes. On very large diameter globes (20" & 32") or glass globes, this feature is generally not available due to manufacturing constraints.
Why do some globes have a metal ring around them? (The Meridian)
Most globes have a metal ring called a Meridian. They are generally numbered in degrees from 0º at the equator to 90º at either pole. While originally used to help locate positions, today the ring primarily serves to hold the globe ball in position at the correct 23.5º tilt.
What is that little round dial at the North Pole?
It's called a Time Dial. It is used to compare time around the world. Rotate it to the time in your area to see the approximate time in other parts of the world.
What is the purpose of a compass rose on a map?
The compass rose was traditionally used on early maps to designate wind direction and intensity. Replogle and Waypoint Geographic continue to place a compass rose on many globe maps for its historical beauty and educational value.
What stones are used on Gemstone Globes?
Our gemstone globes feature hand-inlaid semi-precious stones, including: Abalone Shell, Amethyst, Aphrizite, Onyx, Black Spotted Jade, Chrysolithos, Coral, Green Jade, Green Jasper, Lapis, Mother of Pearl, Picture Jasper, Purple Quartz, Red Jade, Tiger Eye, Turquoise, and White Jade.
Care, Maintenance & Troubleshooting
How do I care for my globe?
- Non-Illuminated Globes: Use a dry cloth to remove household dust and markings.
- Illuminated Globes: Household dust can be removed with a dry cloth. You may occasionally use a slightly dampened cloth to remove fingerprints.
- Caution: Do not use industrial or household cleaners that contain alcohol or any solvent. Minimize exposure to direct sunlight to preserve the rich colors of your map.
Where can you buy a replacement light bulb?
Replacement bulbs can be found at any hardware or lighting store.
- 12" Globes: Typically use a 15-watt to 25-watt candelabra light bulb.
- 20" Globes: Typically use a 40-watt standard bulb.
- 32" Globes: Typically use a 75-watt standard bulb.
My globe ball won't stay upright. What should I do?
Make sure that each ear or post on the meridian has a plastic washer and black rubber tip in place. If you are missing these parts, please contact our Customer Service team.
How does the "Touch On" feature work?
On select Replogle® 20" or 32" illuminated globes, the meridian ring acts as a sensor. By touching any part of the metal meridian ring with your fingertip, you can control three light intensity levels.
Can push pins be used in my press craft globe?
No. We do not recommend sticking any object into the globe unless it is specifically sold as a "Cork" or "Pin-able" globe. Standard globes will be damaged by pins.
How old is my globe and what is it worth?
For help dating your globe ball, check out our "How Old Is Your Globe" article. For valuation, we recommend contacting a rare map dealer such as Murray Hudson Antiquarian Books, Maps, Prints & Globes.
The Updatable Globe Program
What is the Updatable Globe Program?
GlobeStore.com wants to help you keep your globe as up-to-date and accurate as the day you bought it. As a Replogle or Waypoint Geographic globe owner, you are eligible for 50% off the retail value of a new globe ball through this program.
To take advantage of this program (available in the USA), make note of your globe model number and the date of purchase. If a change occurs in the world, you can request an update by contacting Customer Service at support@globestore.com.