Thanks to all who have replied. Once again I am reminded why this forum is so different and useful.

I have decided to stick with the baseplate model and am leaning towards a needled compass instead of the Eclipse. Although I have sent Brunton customer service an email asking their opinion in the max. altitude they recomend for their product. I will share their reply with the list. My inclination is to not bother and chance it. After all, what good is the promise for a replacement capsule midway througH A 12 day trek when I'm standing atop of Mt. Baldy at 12,440 ft.?