Located on the Starboard cabin wall of the Disney Nautilus Wheelhouse, we find the Atomic Counter that is depicted in many exciting action scenes from the movie: 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea. But exactly what is it and what did it do? My name is Theo Wilhelm and I am your host and guide here at DisneySub. And the propose of the Atomic Counter is a valid and intriguing question for the avid fan of the Disney Nautilus. However, just viewing the movie, it's propose is not clearly understood. So come along with us as we explore the possible answers and tour exciting images of the Nautilus Wheelhouse Atomic Counter.
The mystery of this until recently unknown Nautilus wheelhouse device has finally been explained. While the DisneySub Forum was active, we investigated this device at length. It rockes back and forth at faster rates when the Nautilus engines run faster. It is therefore a type of indicator depicting the submarine's speed. The two units on each side of the Atomic Counter are rests to dampen the lever's travel as it rocks back and forth. Harper Goff, the designer of the Disney Nautilus affectionately referred to these dampeners as "Ice Cream Cones."





It does look like an Ice Cream Cone!



This is an early drawing by Harper Goff of the Atomic Counter.



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