This is just a sample of the many
antique surveying instruments we have sold.
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Most prices seen reflect actual sale results from this website.
Prices seen
span a long period of time and may not reflect current values. Some
are selling for more, many now sell for less.
On some pieces you will see no price, or a price range,
with or without an explanation. The reasons for that are discussed on the FAQ page.
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Young
& Sons # 10 Solar Transit with Smith Patent Telescopic Solar Attachment in
Original Box This rare c. 1913 Young Solar
Transit with an unusual Smith Patent Telescopic Solar Attachment is in very nice
overall condition. It includes the box and a nicely refinished tripod. A
graphic and commanding piece for display or addition to many collections.
Young solar transits are called off as model No. 10 in early Young
catalogs. The patent for the Smith solar attachment was first granted in 1880.
This solar transit carries an improved model solar attachment that was re-issued
a patent in 1902 and is so stamped. The 8484 serial number on the face of the
compass on the transit dates it from shortly after the turn of the century.
Young's use of Aluminum for many of the different parts of the solar transit
is very unusual for an instrument from this time period. The transit has a 4½"
horizontal circle, a 4" silvered vertical circle, a 3.3" needle, and a 10" main
telescope. The telescope on the Smith solar unit is 7" long, and is inscribed
"Pat Sep 16, 1902." All motions are free and move smoothly. The optics are
clean and clear and it has 3 horizontal and 1 vertical crosshair. The compass
swings to north, and the needle lock works as it should. Note that there is a
vernier scale on the outside plate, and another under the glass. The different
scales are all silvered w/ tarnish. The transit fits into the lift top box with
the solar attachment in place. The box shows its age but is OK. The tripod is
included in the price. Fine . . . . . .
$2850.00 SOLD!!
Buff
& Berger # 11 Theodolite / Transit This
unusual special use surveying instrument
is in excellent condition. The partnership of Buff & Berger was formed in the 1870's and dissolved in
1898. Each partner went their own way, and opened up new shops under the
names Berger & Sons, and Buff & Buff.
The scope on this
unusual instrument is 11"
long and the image inverted. The optics are crisp and clear. The end
plate on one side is marked City of Boston St Laying Out Department. In reading from a
Buff & Buff catalog
from this era it can be seen that this style theodolite was designed
specifically for this type of application. Road building that is. An interesting feature is
that the caps on the end of the scope axles can be swung out so that the scope can
be lifted and reinserted 180 degrees so that one could shoot a line to the
rear without disturbing the set-up of the base. This design was necessary as
the scope can not be turned in a full circle when mounted because the optics
were such that the scope is too long to do that. All of the level vials
are full and appear to be original. There are two magnifiers over the
vernier scales to help with reading the fine graduations on the silver
scales. There is no tripod or box.
A large, graphic
and rare instrument that is in very nice condition and will be a
highlight of any display or collection.
Good + . . . . . . $500.00
SOLD!!
George Shilling - Washington DC Surveying Transit
An interesting instrument made by a little known but
documented maker who was born in Norway in 1844 and first opened up his own
shop in Washington DC in 1875. There is a short bio on him at the Smithsonian site
who own several of his instruments, in Smarts book on Surveying instruments, and
some more info at the SurveyHistory.org
site. The info found indicates the government was his best customer,
and that he died about the time of WWI.
The optics are OK, but one of the 3 horizontal crosshairs has
broken. That has affected the vertical crosshair. All the motions
are free and move well enough. The level bubble on the plate is broken,
the one on the plate is OK.
It came in a box, but it is not original. For some reason the vertical
circle is not marked off in degrees. The edge is silvered and tarnished, but
there is no increment markings on it. A mystery. It has a nice
patina, and will display nicely as it sits. Good . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
Dietzgen Solar
Transit This c. 1900 Dietzgen Solar
transit is in nice condition. It is a light mountain or preliminary survey
size instrument and has a 9" scope. It has a female threaded mounting point
on the top of the scope for a solar attachment. It is being sold w/o the attachment. All motions are free and smooth.
Good optics w/ crosshairs. Compass points north. Nice even
patina. An overall nice piece in nice condition.
Good + . . . . . . . $495.00 w/o attachment
SOLD!!
Dietzgen
Engineers Transit in Box
This is a nice looking Engineers size transit by Dietzgen. The serial number of 14,236
would date it from the late 20's, a period they were producing approx. 500
instruments a year.
The overall condition is nice. The black finish
is well over 90%. Cross hairs are present, and the optics are good.
All bubbles are full. All motions are free and smooth. The
compass points north. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $395.00
SOLD!!
Weiss & Heitzler
Prismatic Scope Transit This is a very unusual transit. The maker mark,
Weiss & Heitzler Instrument Co. Denver Colo. and the patent info of June
1908 can be found under the glass on the
compass face. Paul Weiss was born in Switzerland, and moved to the United States in 1881. From 1906 to 1910 he worked in partnership with Frank Heitzler, whose patent (#891,773), dated June 23, 1908,
described a telescope with two prisms making it substantially shorter than telescopes ordinarily used with surveying
instruments at the time. The scope on this transit measures under
7" and is of the type described. There are short Bio's on
both Weiss and Heitzler in Smarts book on surveying instruments, and all
of that info was derived from that.
The Smithsonian has a transit /
instrument that looks very similar to this one marked Weiss & Heitzler
in their online collection. They show, and refer to the
binocular style scope like this transit has, but get the patent date /
number wrong. The correct patent for the offset scope with prisms, much
like a binocular is Pat. 891773 - June 23 1908. Heitzler pulled
another patent, US Pat. 946602 - Jan 18, 1910, for a mining transit
with a very unusual feature of a sliding standard so that the transit could
be used for mining purposes when the standards were shifted to the edge of
the plate. There are no known examples of that transit known.
The
overall condition is fine. Parts of this transit like the screw
base and parts of the scope are made of Aluminum. Most of the rest is brass. The scope is
approx. 7"
long. The compass needle 3 1/2" and working. The finish,
a mottled bronzing, is factory and in super condition.The optics are clear and not
inverted. The crosshairs, 3 horizontal and one vertical, are present. The vertical circle is
4" Dia. All motions are free, and operable and smooth.
This is an
interesting and rare transit that would be a fine
addition to any collection of surveying instruments. Opportunity
Knocks.Good + . . . . . . . $995.00
SOLD!!
Ainsworth Light Mountain Mining Transit in Box
This is a nice looking light mountain size transit by Ainsworth of Denver
Colorado. Ainsworth was a major western maker and supplier for the
mining industry in the western states, The axle for the main 9" scope is threaded
on both sides to take a second mining scope and counterweight. That scope and
counterweight are missing.
The overall condition is nice. Cross hairs are present, and the optics are good.
All bubbles are full. All motions are free and smooth. The
compass points north. A pretty rare instrument that would be a
standout if the missing scope could be found. Different, and Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $550.00
SOLD!!
Expedition Size Transit w/ Aux. Compass & Tripod
This is a super condition rare & unusual miniature
antique
surveying instrument. The scope on this tiny transit is only 4" long.
There are two tags in the lid of the box. One from the San Francisco
instrument maker
Lietz and one from Schwalb Hermanos who I believe was a large distributer in
South America and also had an office in France. I see no marking on the
instrument itself but am confident that it is French or European and not US
made.
The aux. compass mounts over the top like a striding level. Note that
West is called off with a O. Also note the beveled limb on the plate.
The tripod legs are hollow and the extension leg slides
up into the larger portion. A neat design. The box measures
approx. 6" square. The plumb bob is a two piece affair, I
assumes so that it will
stop swinging quicker given the extra weight. The optics are
good, and crosshairs are present. A super display piece for the
science / technology antique collection or home decor. Fine . . . . . . $800.00
SOLD!!
Lietz
Aluminum Solar Transit This is a rare
transit form
in a rare material for surveying instruments from this period. Lietz
was the premier maker of instruments in California and the west coast.
They first opened for business in the early 1890s. This solar transit has
a serial # 1690
which according to Uzes's
book on surveying instruments would date it from pre 1906 Earthquake era in
San Francisco.
Lietz first opened their doors in the 1890s in San Francisco CA and offered
some innovative instrument designs to compete with other more established makers
and satisfy their customer base on the West Coast.
The solar transit is shown on the left w/o the attachment, and on the
right with it in
place. It is being sold either way as I also have a Bausch & Lomb
Solar Transit that this attachment fits on. The Saegmuller type solar attachment
is unmarked as to maker and is housed in a separate box. (see last few
pics) There is no
provision in either transit box for an attachment so it would be proper to
go with either instrument as it would be something special ordered according
to the users preference.
The transit is in overall very nice condition.
Some of the motions are a bit stiff from sitting for so long, and it needs to be lubed and cleaned.
The transit optics are good and so are the solar attachments. A rare
instrument that will display nicely in a number of collection themes.
Very Nice!! Fine . . . . . . $2250.00 w/ Attachment SOLD!!
C.
L. Berger & Son Engineer Transit This
is a nice looking Engineer size Surveying transit that is in in
nice condition. Good Patina. No condition issues. There is no box. A nice piece
that will fit into many different collections or decors.
Good + . . . . . . . $350.00
SOLD!!
W. & L. E. Gurley
Transit w/ Smith Solar Attachment This W. & L. E. Gurley
transit is equipped with an unusual form solar attachment known as the
Smith Solar Attachment named after the inventor who was issued his patent in
1881. Solar transits are one of the most desirable and sought after of all
surveying instruments to be found. They are graphic, historically important,
rare, and represent an important aspect of surveying history. This
example dates from the 1950s and the end of the era for this design or style instrument
before GPS and electronic instruments took their place.
This instrument and the Smith Solar attachment are in like new near
mint condition. The serial # on the transit indicates a manufacture
date of 1956. The box is very nice
as well. All motions and the
screws are
free. The compass works and the compass face is very nice. Also
included is a brochure and an additional print out on the instruments use and
proper setting up of it. Also included is a Cox Stadia rule put out by
Gurley. This instrument once belonged to Bud Uzes, the well known
surveying instrument collector and author of the book Chaining the Land. There are two
pictures of him using this transit on a job in 1989 in New Mexico.
The idea behind solar instruments, either transits or compasses, was
that in certain areas the magnetic deviation was so great, and the
errors it could cause so great, that these unusual and significant
devices were developed as a way to compensate for or alleviate this effect. The Burt
Solar attachment was first Patented in the 1830's to be used on solar
compasses. Gurley later bought the rights and offered this style
attachment with
their instruments. Later on they also offered the Smith Patent
version. A solar instrument enabled the user to find a true
reference or location using the horizon and the position of the sun
instead of the standard method employing the compass. Even though the
concept had been around and employed in seafaring navigation for
centuries,
very few of them were actually made for use in the field w/
transits or compasses. They are rare.
Each major surveying
instrument maker made a transit that could be equipped with one form or
another of these devices. The best known names in the surveying
instrument field were Gurley and Keuffel & Esser, but Berger, Buff,
Dietzgen, Lietz, Warren Knight, Sala, and others offered versions solar transits.
Different attachments are typically known by the name of the inventor,
and the examples designed and developed by Saegmuller, Smith, Pearson & Burt
being the best known solar attachments. The Saegmuller, Smith
and Pearson utilized small secondary scopes, while the Burt design more closely
resembled a octant or sextant in design and used a peep site.
Rarely seen or offered for sale this transit will move your collection to
the head of the line. A super piece.
Fine . . . . . . . $2750.00 SOLD!!
Buff
& Buff Mfg. Co. Solar Transit w/ Smith Patent Solar Attachment / Box &
Tripod
This Buff
& Buff solar transit is in exceptional condition. From the serial #28294 we can surmise this solar transit was manufactured in the 1920's - 1930's.
The Buff & Buff MFG. Co was formed after the breakup of the Buff and Berger company back near the turn of the century. The original firm
of Buff & Berger split into two companies with each principal
going into business with family members of the same name, hence the company names, Buff & Buff, and Berger & Sons
found on those later instruments.
The transit has developed a nice even
patina on the brass portions. The transits main scope is 9" long which would
make this a light mountain size transit. It has an image erect and the
optics are good and clear. Crosshairs are present. The 4" silvered compass works properly. The
silvered vertical circle is 4" and has an aux Stadia scale as shown. All
level bubbles are good, and there are 2 striding levels as well. All
motions operate as they should but this instrument should be gone through
and lubed as some thumbscrews are "gummy" tight from sitting unused for
nearly 100 years. The solar attachment has an inverted image, and 4
crosshairs. 3 in one orientation and one intersecting. The serial # on the box and instrument
match. Even the leather strap is original and stamped with the serial #
28294. The box is very nice and has nearly all of its original finish. The
counterweight is a molded piece of lead that is fitted between the standards
on the opposite side in such a way as to save space and allowing the box to
be smaller and easier to transport in the field.
Solar transits were developed so that the user could accurately determine his location
in the field without
relying on the magnetic compass. Magnetic deviations would adversely affect a
magnetic compass and so they were not an accurate means to determine ones location
in many areas. The idea with solar transits was
to use the position of the sun and the horizon to determine ones location, much as a sextant or octant would be used to determine ones true location
on a boat in open water with no visible reference points. The first patent for a
solar transit was granted to Burt in the 1830's but many other variants were
developed and patented afterward.
There are a number of different versions of solar attachments that were patented and used on
surveying instruments. The Burt solar attachment was used on Gurley, Roach and
other instruments. K & E, Buff, Warren Knight, Fauth and others used the Saegmuller patent
attachment. Saegmuller Solar Attachments were a top mounted scope.
(see below) The Smith Patent Solar Attachment
and the Pearson Solar Attachment
mounted on the side of instruments and are both more unusual.
This is is a rare instrument that will display very nicely and be a highlight of any collection of surveying
or engineering related instruments. Fine . . . . . $1995.00 SOLD!!
Buff & Buff Mfg. Co. Solar Transit w/ Saegmuller Solar Attachment This Buff & Buff solar transit is in exceptional condition. From the serial #6625 we can surmise this
transit was manufactured shortly after the turn of the century. The
Buff & Buff MFG. Co was formed after the breakup of the Buff and Berger
company back near the turn of the century. The new company began their
serial # at 4000.
The instrument has a near perfect lacquered
finish on the brass portions. The original solar attachment is nickel
plated and has a great contrasting look. The transits main scope is 12" long which would make this an
engineer's transit. It has an image erect and the optics
are crisp and clear. The 4" silvered compass works properly.
The silvered vertical circle is 4". All level bubbles are good. All motions operate as they should. The serial # on the box and
instrument match. The box is very nice.
Solar transits were developed so that the user could accurately determine his location in the field without relying on the magnetic compass.
Magnetic deviations would adversely affect magnetic compasses and so were not an accurate means to determine ones location
in many areas. The idea was to use the position of the sun and the horizon to determine ones location, much as a sextant or octant would be used to determine ones true location
on a boat in open water with no visible reference points. The first patent for a solar transit was granted to Burt in the 830's but many other variants were developed shortly afterward.
There are a number of different versions of solar attachments that were patented and used on
surveying instruments. The Burt solar attachment was used on Gurley, Roach and
a few other instruments. K & E, Buff, Fauth, Warren Knight and others used the Saegmuller patent
attachment. As evidenced by the other Buff Solar listed, a buyer could
order different style solar attachments of his choice.
This is is a rare surveying instrument that will display very nicely and be a highlight of any collection of
engineering related instruments. Fine . . . . . $2550.00
SOLD!!
C. L. Berger Surveyors' No. 6 1/4 Transit
A minty nice 70 some year old surveyors' transit in its original box. The
serial # of 29060 would date it from approx. 1945. Everything about it is
nice. It looks to have never been used. The black crinkle finish is
near perfect.
It is a large
graphic instrument with a 11 1/2 inch scope. The compass needle is 3 1/2. Note the
triple reading vernier on the 5" vertical circle.
Very Graphic, and Very Nice!! Fine . . . . . . $395.00
SOLD!!
Seiler Builders Transit in Box A super condition instrument that
is NOS / Never been used. This Seiler transit looks to date from the 60's.
Seiler began operations in the 1940s and the company is still in business today.
They are based in St Louis MO. They have moved into other related
fields. A history can be found at
http://www.surveyhistory.org/st__louis_instrument_makers1.htm.
This instrument is a
clone to the K & E version offered above or similar instruments by David White,
Berger, or others that are out there. It is the design instrument I
use to have and use for layouts and general work when I was a general
contractor. It served me well. This builders transit / level has a single
spring loaded lever release on the side to turn it into a limited transit to shoot
vertical angles. It would be perfect for the casual user or builder and a better piece of equipment than Home Depot or Lowes peddles these
days for more money. Fine . . . . . . $150.00
SOLD!!
A. Lietz San Francisco Mining Transit w/ Secondary Scope
in Box A large graphic antique
mining related surveying instrument
with a 11 inch main scope and 7" secondary scope. This good condition
antique mining transit
is in its original box and was made by A. Lietz California's premier surveying
instrument maker and dealer. The black finish is very nice overall. The
compass needle is 3 1/2.
The optics in both scopes is nice. Lietz instruments are hard to date,
but I would think this dates from after the turn of the century and pre
WWII. The box is solid. Very Nice!!
Mining transits were used in situations where the operator had to shoot down
vertical shafts or odd angles. When mounted on the side it projected
past the plate to allow the user to shoot along that line. Different
manufacturers used different approaches to solve the problem. Gurley's
number for the secondary scope was #160. Catalogs of the era show that
it could be ordered to mount over the scope as well. Other
manufactures used the same means or slight variations on the theme. Buff
offered a rare version where the
main scope
could be released and moved into another position further out on the standards above the
plate. There is also a version with a leaning frame to allow for the same effect.
They are much harder to find than a standard instrument and make a great
display when set up. Fine . . . . . . $1495.00
SOLD!!
Umeco
Model 200 Transit This small transit looks
to date from the 1960's or so. I believe it is Japanese and marketed here
by Lietz w/o that info anywhere to be seen. Similar to Sokkisha
instruments also marketed by them. It looks to have seen little use. There is a US Forest
Department tag on the box. Part of the US Government procurement process no doubt.
Buy new to replace the little used older instrument, sell that instrument
for pennies, store the new one for a while, then sell it for pennies on the
dollar. Repeat every few years.
Everything works and the optics are crisp and clear.
It will make for a fine general purpose user.
Fine . . . . . . . $195.00 SOLD!!
Wild Heerbrugg T 16 Theodolite Transit Switzerland
Top of the line in its day. It looks to be in fine condition.
The literature that came with it indicated it was bought as a gift by a son
for his father to use on the ranch property without the son realizing it has an inverted
image, and so was traded in for something else more suitable for casual use
and then sat on a shelf in the shops storage room for 40 years.
Fine . . . . . . $325.00 SOLD!!
Buff
& Buff Mfg. Co. Mining Transit w/ Box &
Tripod
This Buff
& Buff mining transit is in exceptional condition. From the serial #9842
on the plate we can surmise this
transit was manufactured in the first quarter of the 1900's. Mining transits were developed so that the user could
shoot past the plate when sighting down a mine shaft. The second scope could
be mounted on the top, or off one or the other side.
The Buff & Buff MFG. Co was formed after the breakup of the Buff and Berger company back near the turn of the century. The original firm
of Buff & Berger split into two companies in 1898 with each principal
going into business with family members of the same name, hence the company names, Buff & Buff, and Berger & Sons
found on those later instruments.
The transit has has a matte green finish
showing just minimal scuffs & wear at some high spots. The transits main scope is 9" long which would make this a light mountain size transit. It has an
erect image and the optics
are crisp and clear. The main scope has 6 crosshairs. One vertical,
3 horizontal, and an X. The smaller scope has a simple cross. The silvered vertical circle
is enclosed and read from the side window facing the operator. All level bubbles are good. All motions operate as they should
with some stiffness from sitting for nearly 100 years. They could use a
lube. The serial # on the box and
instrument do not match. The leather strap is original and stamped with a
serial #. It has a break or tear in it. The box is very nice and has nearly all of its
original finish with minor scuffs. There is a counterweight and several
sunshades mounted on the base board. The base board has the same
number as the strap, which is different from the # on the instrument.
The original Buff marked collapsible leg tripod is in fine condition and is included in the price.
This is is a rare instrument that will display very nicely and be a highlight of any
mining, surveying, or related collection.
Fine . . . . . $2200.00 SOLD!!
Buff Solar Transit w/ Smith Patent Solar Attachment
in Original Box
This unusual Buff solar transit came from the Bureau of Land Management and was used in the Pacific Northwest to check
lines and boundaries on government properties. From the serial #24846 we can surmise this Buff solar transit was manufactured in the 1920's - 1930's
after the breakup of the Buff and Berger company back near the turn of the century. The original firm
of Buff & Berger split into two companies with each principal
going into business with family members of the same name, hence the names, Buff & Buff, and Berger & Sons
on later instruments.
Solar transits were developed so that the user could accurately determine his location without
relying on the compass in the field. Because of magnetic deviations compasses were not an accurate means to determine ones location
in many areas. The idea was
to use the position of the sun and the horizon to determine ones location, much as a sextant or octant would be used to determine ones true location
on a boat in open water with no visible reference points.
There are a number of different versions of solar attachments that were patented and used on
surveying instruments. The Burt solar attachment which was used on Gurley Instruments, and the Saegmuller solar used on K & E instruments being the
most frequently seen. Both of those types mounted on the top of the scope. Smith Patent Solar Attachments
mount on the side of the instrument and are much more unusual.
The instrument has developed a nice even patina. The transits main scope is 9" long which would make this a light mountain size transit. It has an image erect and the optics
are crisp and clear. The silvered compass works and is 4" with a tiny 2" needle.
The silvered vertical circle is 4". All level bubbles are good, and
there are 2 striding levels in the box as well. All motions operate as they should. The serial # on the box and
instrument match. Even the leather strap is original and stamped with the serial # 24846. The box is very nice and has nearly all of its
original finish. The counterweight is a molded piece of lead that is fitted to the opposite
side in such a way to save space and making the box smaller and easier to transport in the field.
This is a rare instrument that will display very nicely and be a highlight of any collection of surveying related instruments. Good + . . . . . . $2450.00
SOLD!!

Berger Mining Transit w/ Aux. Mining Scope Attachment This
was the third surveying instrument I bought that has a provision for taking
an auxiliary scope mounting either on top or on the side of the transit.
These auxiliary scopes were typically utilized in mining applications as a
means to more readily determine locations and reference points, allowing the
user to shoot straight down past the plate.
I
have bought and sold a lot of transits and levels by various manufacturers over
the years, and during that time saw very few surveying instruments that had
this provision to take an auxiliary scope that this style of transit does.
This example showed up on eBay one
day with a BUY IT NOWicon and I hit it just a couple of hours after it had been listed. I figured
I had done OK. Over the next month or so 3 more
appeared on eBay, with
each one bringing less than the previous. One of them was in absolutely
immaculate condition, and I was the underbidder, with the next lower bidder
at a lot less than I paid for this one. The other in lesser condition after
10 days
bought just about what I paid for this example. Is it a case of
them not being rare, or did these examples come out of the woodwork so to speak
because of the price paid for the first one, or was it simply a fluke of timing.
Over the years I have seen and / or been part of this kinds of scenario before.
Where you run into a pocket of something that was
previously considered very rare, and suddenly there are a dozen or more of them
available. The prices fluctuate, and are volatile for a while. I have
yet to figure out exactly where this instrument fits into this picture, but
it is a very nice example and comes complete with its tripod and box.
The auxiliary scope is a different finish, but that is to be expected and not
improper.
The counterweight is present, as well s two different style
sunshades. The box is in nice condition
overall. and there are three different labels glued to the inside. The overall
condition is very nice, and I believe
that this instrument was factory refinished at one point it is so nice.
All bubbles are good, and all of the screws and motions turn freely as they
should. The collapsible tripod is very nice as well and is included
in this offering.
Good . . . . .$850.00 SOLD
Buff
& Buff Mining Transit w/ Secondary Scope
This engineer size Buff mining transit is equipped with a second scope to
allow the user to shot over the edge of the plate when it is aimed straight
down. The second scope can also be mounted on the outside of the
transit on the main axle. This arrangement with 2 scopes was used
inside of mines to help in the layout of tunnels and shafts. I believe it
dates from sometime just after the turn of the century.
The
vertical circle is silvered and graduated to 30. So is the vernier on the
plate. This graphic looking transit has a 4" compass needle. The compass
works well, and the silvered face is nice. The optics are clear and the
cross hairs are intact. The smaller scope has a cloud on the end lens. It
is also stiff when trying to adjust it, but it does focus, and its
crosshairs are present. There is no counterweight. All other motions are
smooth, and work properly. The three level vials are full. There is no
box. A very nice looking
and hard to find mining transit that will display very nicely.
Good . . . . . . .$950.00 SOLD
Berger Mining Transit
This engineer size Berger mining transit is set up to accept a second scope to
allow the user to shot over the edge of the plate when it is aimed straight
down. This arrangement with 2 scopes was used
inside of mines to layout tunnels and vertical shafts. There is no second
scope although the last pics show it with the scope from the instrument
listed above to show what it would look like.
The vertical circle
is silvered and graduated to 30. So is the vernier on the plate. This graphic
looking transit has a 3" compass needle and black face. The serial
number is 17503. The compass works well.
The optics are clear and the cross hairs are intact. The
counterweight is present and attached to the base plate. It has a
double telescopic effect when focusing it. The front extends out in 2
stages. There is also a thumbscrew near the eyepiece which does not
operate or turn. The eyepiece focuses by twisting and pulling it out
so I am not sure what this motion is there for. All other motions are
smooth, and work properly. The three level vials are full. The box
is nice, and has several paper labels inside. A very nice looking
and hard to find mining transit that will display very nicely.
Good + . . . . . . .$975.00 SOLD!!
Berger
Transit This
transit will make for a great display piece. The box
is a bit torn up and the door needs to be reset. It looks as if
somebody started to refinish it and stopped.
Everything seems to be working OK. The scope
is approx. 10" long and the optics are clear with crosshairs present. The
serial # 14783 as seen under the compass glass. I believe it dates
from the 30's or so. The black crinkle finishes on the
mostly brass instrument are original and OK. They purposefully left
some areas like the base and eyepieces in natural brass. It has a 4"
full vertical circle scaled to 30'. There is a pad missing under
one of the leveling screws on the leveling head.
Note:
I have a nice fixed leg tripod that will fit this instrument. It is a
non standard size approx. 3 1/4 x 12. It is offered separately for
$125.00 additional.
Good . . . . . .$650.00
SOLD!
Buff
& Buff Surveyor's / Engineers Transit
This
is a nice looking surveying instrument by one of the best known makers of surveying
instruments in America. George Buff studied under and made instruments
for a number of other makers before going into business for himself in the 1860's.
In the 1890's he formed the company Buff & Buff in New York and this company
remained in business until 1980 or so. This instruments design was their
mainstay and was produced for over 70 years from the research I have seen.
The condition is very nice noting the missing eye piece end cover, the optics
are fine, and a repair to the Mahogany box. The serial # and patent date
can be seen in the close-up of the compass face, which also shows how nice the
finish is. The finish on the instrument itself is super and original.
I believe it dates from the first quarter of the 20th century.
Good . . . . .$750.00 SOLD
Buff
& Buff Engineer's or Builders Transit The overall condition and
look of this surveying instrument from the famous Boston Maker Buff & Buff,
which dates from the early part of the last century is second to none.
It is fully operational and all moving parts and adjusters move freely.
All 3 of the level vials are good. The sight glasses are nice as well.
The Compass is operational, and its locking feature functions. The clear
lacquer finish is near perfect and original. The green finish portions
on the supports and wheel cover are in great condition also and add a great
contrasting look. The box is also very nice as well. A super piece
for display or the collection.
Good . . . . .$650.00 SOLD
Buff
& Buff Engineer's Transit The overall condition and
look of this surveying instrument from the famous Boston Maker Buff & Buff
is very nice.
It is fully operational and all moving parts and adjusters move freely.
All 3 of the level vials are good. The sight glasses are nice as well.
The Compass is operational, and its locking feature functions. The box is also very nice as well. A super piece
for display or the collection.
Good . . . . .$750.00
SOLD
C.
L. Berger & Sons Engineer's Transit
The serial # is 17,502, and this would date this
surveyor's or engineer's transit / instrument from approx. 1930 or so.
The optics are clear, the crosshairs present, and the compass is functioning.
All other motions are free and operate as they should. All level vials
are full and appear to be original. There are 2 small screws that hold
the shroud over the vertical scale that are missing. This instrument is
currently housed a nicely done craftsman made box that fits it nicely.
Good . . . . .$575.00 SOLD
Below is a short history of this
company that comes from the Smithsonian's well done site and pictures some of
their collection. The link to that site is
http://americanhistory2.si.edu/surveying/maker.cfm
Berger
Christian Louis Berger (1842–1922) was born at Stuttgart,
and was descended from men who made arms and armor for the royal
family of Würtemberg. He apprenticed with Christian Saeger,
a local maker of surveying instruments and analytical scales,
and worked in other instrument shops in Germany and England.
Moving to Boston in 1866, Berger worked for E. S. Ritchie &
Son and then for John Upham. In 1871 he joined with George Louis
Buff, and began trading as Buff & Berger.
In 1898, after an acrimonious dispute over the roles that
their sons would play in the business, Buff and Berger parted
company. Berger acquired the assets of Buff & Berger, began
trading as C. L. Berger & Sons, purchased a 30-inch dividing
engine from William Würdemann, built a new factory in Roxbury,
and continued to produce instruments for engineers and surveyors.
Although C. L. Berger & Sons remained successful throughout
the first half of the 20th century, they could not adjust to
the electronic revolution that swept the instrument enterprise
in the postwar period, or compete with inexpensive instruments
from abroad. The Chicago Steel Tape Company purchased the remains
of C. L. Berger & Sons in 1995.
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Buff & Buff Expedition Size Transit
After the partnership of Buff & Berger was dissolved in 1898 each partner went off on their
own to form new instrument making companies with Berger going into business with his sons,
as Berger & Sons, and Buff doing the same starting the new company of Buff & Buff with his
sons.
This is a nice looking transit with a 8" scope which I believe would make it an
expedition size transit . The serial number is 10,616, and I am not sure how Buff & Buff
went about numbering their instruments after the breakup of the partnership.
Berger just picked up where the two had left off, and from the look of this transit and
figuring Buff did the same I would think this transit dates from near the turn of the
century and before the 1920's.
All of the bubbles are good, and the compass functions.
All the motions are free and turn properly. The crosshairs are present. The serial number
on the base is the same as the instruments. It has a 4" silver vertical circle scaled to
read to a minute. A great size transit and very nice looking instrument that will display
very nicely.
Good . . . . .$450.00 SOLD
Buff
& Berger Bevel Limb Transit This is
a rare transit that made the back page of the 1897 Buff & Berger
catalog. It is one of the few American instruments produced with a
beveled vernier at the edge of the plate. The write up in the
catalog explains why the idea did not last long. it was hard and
expensive to produce, and was very fragile. One of but a handful
known.
Fine. . . . . SOLD
Buff
& Berger #2 Light Mountain Size Transit The partnership
of Buff & Berger was formed in 1871. They were located in Boston, and were
in business until 1898 when the partnership was dissolved and each party went off
on their own to form new surveying instrument companies. Berger went
into business with his sons, as Berger & Sons, and Buff did the same starting
the new company of Buff & Buff. There are Bios for both companies from Smarts
reference book that can be found at the Smithsonian site if interested.
This is a nice looking transit with a 9" scope which according to
the catalog I have would make it a #2 size transit. From the
serial number of 175 it seems that this transit was made during the first few years
of the companies formation in the 1870's.
The center yoke piece is made of a white bronze or brass and has
a great contrasting look with the rest of the instruments darker patiniated brass contrasting
with that color. All of the bubbles are good, and the compass functions.
All the motions are free and turn properly. The rear lens adjustment is tight
and needs a lube to focus the crosshairs easier, but they are there.
A great size and very nice looking instrument from a maker better
known for their larger instruments. Buff & Berger instruments are equal in quality
and feature to anything Gurley or K& E were putting out during the same time period.
They were a well known and respected firm and this instrument is far rarer than
a similar size instrument by either of those better known and more prolific makers.
It will display very nicely.
Good+ . . . . . .$450.00
SOLD!!
C.
L. Berger & Sons Solar Transit w/ Pearson's Patent Solar Attachment
This C. L. Berger & Sons solar transit dates from right
around the turn of the century. It is marked on the compass face "C. L. Berger
& Sons Successors to Buff & Berger Boston". The serial # is 3249 which would
date this from right around the turn of the century, and just after the breakup
of the original Buff & Berger Firm in 1898. From available company records this transit
was originally sold with the shown solar attachment.
The compass is very nice and operates
properly. The compass face measures approx 5" and the silvered needle
just over 4". The horizontal vernier is silvered and in excellent
condition. The transit itself stands
just over 12" tall, and the scope is approx 11" long. All motions are free
and turn freely. The brass finish has developed a very nice patina.
The transit focuses and the crosshairs consist of
three horizontals and one vertical. The image is erect and not inverted. At the
eyepiece end it seems there is cap missing, and the adjustment to bring the crosshairs
into focus is tight / stiff. The half circle vernier is silvered
and reads to 30 degrees. The half circle vernier has a slight bend of about
2 degrees on the right side, as if it had been bumped at some point. It still
rides freely and reads from the scale just fine. It has a 3 1/4 inch tripod mount and
I do not have the tripod. Different makers utilized different styles of
solar attachments and Buff & Berger adopted the Pearson Patent Solar
Attachment. The patent for the Pearson solar attachment was granted in 1882 about the same time as most
other patents for these rare & unusual devices called solar attachments were issued. The
Pearson patent, like the Saegmuller utilized a
telescopic sight. Because of its design and the way it mounts this solar
attachment uses the transits
frame and settings for its set up. The Burt solar attachment and other top mounted style solar
attachments had their own adjusters. This Pearson patent solar attachment appears to be NOS and retains
nearly 100% of it original finish and Lacquer. It is marked on the inside
of the attachment Buff & Berger which means it was made just before the transit
and before the original Buff & Berger Co. broke up. It is stamped with the
#3 which may be its serial # or an assembly #. The focus is crisp and the
crosshairs present. As can be seen in the pics there is a dark lens cap, and
a sun shade for it as well. There are places in the box these can be mounted to.
The transit has the proper box, and the cosmetic condition
of it is pretty nice. There are several paper labels inside including instructions
on what to and not to do. There is no place in the box for the
attachment, but as I stated earlier, company records indicate the transit and
attachment were originally sold together.
This style and form of transit with this unusual
solar attachment was not widely distributed and thus is quite rare. Over the years I have seen dozens
of Burt Style solar attachments offered for sale
on Gurley and other make transits. I have seen and had a handful of the Saegmuller
solar attachments that K & E, Lietz, and Dietzgen used, and I have even seen several
of the later Smith patent solar attachment offered for sale, but this is the first Pearson
solar attachment by this patentee and
maker that I have had or seen offered. It
will make a great addition to the collection of rare scientific or surveying
related antiques.
Excellent . . . . . .$2250.00
sOLD!!
Buff
Solar Transit w/ Smith Patent Solar Attachment This unusual
Buff solar transit came from the Bureau of Land Management and was used in
the Pacific Northwest to check lines and boundaries on government
properties. From the serial #24846 we can surmise this Buff solar transit was
manufactured in the 1920's - 1930's after the breakup of the Buff and Berger
company back near the turn of the century. The original firm split
into two companies with each principal going into business with family members
of the same name, Buff & Buff, and Berger & Sons.
Solar transits are a very hard to
find surveying instrument that were developed so that the user could
accurately determine his location without relying on the compass in the
field. Because of magnetic deviations compasses were not an accurate means to determine ones
location. The idea was to use the position of the sun, and the horizon
to determine ones location, much as a sextant or octant would
be used to determine ones true location on a boat in open water with no
visible reference points. There are a number
of different versions of solar attachments that were patented and used on
surveying instruments. The Burt solar attachment which was used on Gurley Instruments,
and the Saegmuller solar used on K & E instruments being the most frequently seen.
Smith Patent Solar Attachments are much less frequently seen than those or
others that were developed during the period of roughly 1850 to the turn of
the century.
The
transits main scope is 9" long which would
make this a light mountain size transit to be used in the field . It has an image erect and the optics are crisp and clear. The
silvered compass is 4" and operates properly. All other motions seem to
operate as they should. The serial # on the box and instrument match. Even
the leather strap is original and it too is stamped with the serial #
24846. The box is very nice and has nearly all of its original finish.
The instrument itself has developed a nice even patina. The
counterweight is a molded piece of lead that is fitted to the opposite side
in such a way to save space and making the box smaller and easier to
transport in the field.
This is a rare instrument that will display very nicely and be a
highlight of any collection of surveying related instruments.
Good + . . . . . .$1950.00
SOLD!!
J. C. Sala
Solar Transit w/ Gurley Burt Solar Attachment
J. C. Sala one of the three famous West Coast Surveying Instrument
Makers from San Francisco working during the 19th century. They were
William Albert Schmolz, John Roach, and Joseph Charles Sala. Schmolz,
whose working dates were from the mid 1850's until his death in 1891 was responsible for patenting the idea to adapt the Burt Solar Apparatus
to a transit and was granted a patent for this idea in 1867. Gurley bought
the rights to this idea, and introduced their version around 1874, agreeing
to pay Schmolz $5.00 for each one they sold. Sala who was born in 1841 and at first
apprenticed to Roach was first listed in San Francisco Directories as Roach's
partner in the 1861 Directory and took over the business upon Roach's death in 1891.
This instruments serial # is1157 and was probably made shortly after the turn of the century. Sala died in 1916.
This solar transit is in an amazing state of preservation. The box is
dovetailed, and the original leather covering is very nice. The box
has a repair near the bottom on the right side.
The compass face has a black finish and the points are nicely engraved.
There is a full vertical circle, and the vernier is silvered.
All bubbles are good, and all motions are free. The cross hairs are
present. The solar attachment is marked Gurley. The transits main
scope is 11" long which would make this an engineers or surveyors transit .
It has an erect image and the optics are crisp and clear. The compass face is nice, and the needle operates properly. All other motions
seem to operate as they should. The instrument itself has
developed a nice even patina. The proper tripod is available for an
additional $200.00
Solar transits were developed so that the user could
accurately determine his location without relying on the compass in the
field. Magnetic deviations, especially here in the west, and in
other locations where the geography contains large amounts of magnetic ore could throw off a
magnetic compass and were not an accurate means to determine ones
location in certain areas. The idea was to use the position of the sun, the horizon,
and time of day
to determine ones location. Much as a sextant or octant was used to determine ones true location on a boat in open water with no
visible reference points prior to GPS.
There are a number
of different versions of solar attachments that were patented and used on
surveying instruments. The Burt solar attachment was used on Gurley
instruments and on those by Sala and Roach. K & E used the Saegmuller
style which was a small telescope that mounts above the main scope. Other
types of solar attachments are the Smith and Pearson Patent Solar Attachments
named after the patent holder or inventor.
This transit will display very nicely and be a
highlight of any collection of surveying related instruments or California
history. Different, and Nice!!
Fine . . . . . . $2495.00 SOLD!!
Buff
& Buff Engineer's / Surveyors Transit w/ Box This
transit has an engraving on the outer plate that says #6 California Highway
Commission. Under the compass glass is the maker name Buff & Buff, and
a reference to a patent granted in 1900. The serial # is 7237.
The Buff & Buff firm originated after the break-up of the original Buff &
Berger partnership about 1898. I would assume this transit dates from
just a few years after the turn of the century.
The
overall condition is nice. It does show signs of use. It has all
original finishes.
Buff was known for this sort of thing, where they would finish the barrel
one way, black in this case, the standards another, green, and the
base plate left natural. It helped give their instruments a
distinctive "look". The compass operates, it turns nicely, The half
circle on the side is silvered, and the all motions seem to move a they
should. The three level vials are OK.
All in all a
nice example that has a great patina and graphic look to it. It will
display very nicely.
Good . . . . . .$750.00 SOLD!!
Dietzgen
Light Mountain Solar / Mining Transit
This is a
very nice condition Dietzgen Light Mountain size Solar / Mining transit.
I could not find the exact catalog # looking through several old catalogs,
but it is set up to take a solar attachment on the top of the scope,
and the main scope axle ends are threaded to accept an auxiliary
mining scope and counterweight there as well. Dietzgen referred to such set-ups as
"complete" in their catalogs. Problem is, this example is not complete as neither the
solar attachment nor the mining scope are present. Good + . . . . . $575.00
SOLD!!
Heller
& Brightly Light Mountain Transit in Box
This is a nice looking light mountain size transit by the well known
Pennsylvania maker
Heller & Brightly. The serial number of 10,072 would date it from the 1930s and near the end of this
companies production. H & B were making 50 or
less instruments per year during this later period. They first opened their
doors for business of making surveying instruments in 1870.
The overall condition is nice. Cross hairs are present, and the optics are good.
All bubbles are full. All motions are free and smooth. The
compass points north. Different, and Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $395.00
SOLD!!
A.
Lietz San Francisco Light Mountain Mining Transit
This is a nice looking light mountain size transit by the well known
California make A. Lietz of San Francisco. The serial number of 17,301.
It looks to date from prior to WWII. The overall condition is nice. Cross hairs are present, and the optics are good.
All bubbles are full. All motions are free and smooth. The
compass points north. Note how the caps on the ends of the scope axles
are threaded to allow a second scope to be affixed there. That scope
is missing. Different, and Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $225.00 SOLD!!
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