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Antique & Collectible
K & E / Keuffel & Esser
Transits
The
K
& E Keuffel & Esser 5076 Twisted Frame Light Mountain Transit
The serial # would indicate this transit dates from 1908. K & E
offered this style instrument with twisted standards for a very short period of
time. It was done for the decorative look as well as for extra
strength, but proved to be expensive to finish, and produce, and so was
dropped for more typical U shaped standards. I believe the last year
this style is shown in catalogs was 1913.This transit is called off as a 5076 because the scope is drilled to accept a solar attachment mounting. That mounting point is not present, but they can be made or had. It typically would accept a Saegmuller Solar Attachment which was the design K & E used on their instruments. This transit is in overall very nice condition. The optics are good and crosshairs present. All motions move easily. No issues other than leather handle on top is loose on one side. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $1150.00 SOLD!!
K & E / Keuffel & Esser No. 5086 V
Municipal Triangulation Theodolite This is a
rare and unusual surveying instrument in superb condition. The serial # of 61920 would date it from 1935. It looks to have seen little if any
use. Look at the condition of the felts to hold the scope in place when
stored. They show no wear at all. The first couple of pics are shot from a K & E catalog with the write-up / specs.
The crinkle black finish is near perfect. The optics are crisp and clear. The magnifiers are present. All bubbles are good. Everything seems to be in order. Motions and screws are a bit tight after sitting idle for 80 some years. It has not been tested or had anything done to it in all that time. The wood case is solid and nice. The leather strap is broken. A great piece that will display nicely!!
Good + . . . . . . $1895.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser 5062 "Roebling" Twisted Frame Solar Transit in Original Box This
is an early, unusual, and very nice condition K & E # 5062 "Full
Engineers" solar transit. The serial # is 2632 and it
is dated on the door label 1893. While K & E was in business since the
late 1860s, they did not start producing surveying instruments until 1885. The dating
chart at the SurveyHistory.org site does not go back any earlier than 1900
so the date on the door label is the best indicator of the age. This early K & E solar transit has an interesting provenance having descended down through the well known Roebling family. (See inscription on box label) The Roebling name is best known for their association in designing & building the Brooklyn Bridge, and for their wire, cable, and rule business J. Roebling Co. Both of the Roebling names seen on the label, Col. W. A. Roebling CE, and John Roebling II CE have their own Wikipedia pages. They were an interesting family and it is a good read. The inscription says the transit was given to the son John Roebling II CE in 1892 by the father Col. W. A. Roebling CE. A careful reading or analysis of their histories might reveal the reason or occasion for the gift, be it a graduation gift, Christmas present, or other.
This transit was ordered with many bells and whistle type factory upgrades and has some unusual non catalog features as well. Also present are 2 loupes or magnifiers, an original marked K & E internal reel plumb bob, the sunshade, an unusual folding combo tool w/ spanner & screwdriver marked K & E, an oversize pencil marked K & E, a black cloth dust cover / bag and more. There are also 2 optional gradient adjusters and it has the upgrade 3 leg leveling base as well. It is set up with a solar attachment point on top of the scope. It is a threaded hole as opposed to the typical K & E Dovetail attachment system. Alas there is no solar attachment to complete that aspect. Given the threaded feature, either a Burt patent or Saegmuller type attachment could be added.
As for non factory features, note the long level vial below the scope. It is hung approx. 2" lower than typical. There is also a mirror wired to the scope at an angle. It looks to function like angled viewing mirrors found on Precision Levels allowing the user to sight through the scope while viewing the level vial at the same time. The transit came with a black paper cover over the compass face. I am not sure if this was just something having to do w/ storage, or if it served some other purpose related to the lower level and being used in a location the compass was not needed or would interfere.
The overall cosmetic condition of the
transit is very nice. The distinctive looking twisted frame standards K & E
used on this instrument were only offered for about 10 years or so. It looks to have seen little use and some of the
motions are stiff from sitting idle for 120 some years. It does not need to
be cleaned, but could use a lube job. The green / bronze
lacquer finish on the instrument is very nice. The
almond colored compass face is flawless. The needle lifter is not functioning,
and the needle does not swing properly. It has a 5"
vertical circle w/ optional scale reader and fine adjust. The original finish on the Mahogany box
is in like new condition noting minor scuffs. The key is present.A K & E 8' extendable grade rod is present. It also comes with the proper and original collapsible leg tripod. It is very nice noting one of two leg clamps is broken. It still works with just one clamp remaining. Please look at all the pics to see the exceptional condition and all features. A super nice example of a rare instrument that will display very nicely in any number of settings.
Good + . . . . . . $1750.00 SOLD!!
K
& E Keuffel & Esser Paragon Transit
This large Engineer's transit is in good
overall condition. Good optics,
crosshairs, & bubbles. All motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 11" long. The box is solid.The 169102 serial # dates it from 1960 or so. The black crinkle finish is a bit dirty, but overall near complete. A large and graphic instrument from near the end of K & E offerings for surveying instruments. Takes a standard 3 1/2 x 8 TPI tripod. I have several offered elsewhere. Good for the casual user or display. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
Young
/ K & E Transit This antique surveying transit is in
nice overall condition. It is a light duty recon or preliminary survey size
instrument and has a 9" scope. It is marked both Young and Keuffel & Esser under the
glass on the compass face. K & E bought out the old time PA maker Young
in 1918 and had them continue to produce instruments under their name for several years
before phasing out the line and name altogether. Thus dating this instrument from
that period shortly after 1918.All motions are free and smooth. Good optics w/ crosshairs. Compass points north. Nice even patina. An overall nice piece in nice condition that will display nicely.
Good + . . . . . . . $275.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser Transit This
c. 1911 Keuffel & Esser transit is in fine condition. The serial # 23919 is
on the plate. It is a light duty recon or preliminary survey size instrument
and has a 9" scope. All motions are free and smooth. Good optics w/
crosshairs. Compass points north. Nice original finish noting one area on
the plate where a label was peeled off and it took some finish with it. The
standards have a factory tan crinkle finish on them.Note it also includes a
factory K & E marked rain shield or cover. A nice piece.Fine . . . . . . . $595.00 SOLD!!
K & E / Keuffel & Esser Paragon
Transit The serial # is 21228 and I
believe this transit dates from the late 1960s. The cosmetic condition of the green
finish is nice, but dusty as if it sat outside its box on the job or
on display for a long
time. The overall condition is OK. Cross hairs are present, and the optics are good.
All bubbles are full.The compass points north. All motions are free and smooth.
When the plate is turned it sounds like it needs to be lubed. It
turns easily enough, and without binding. Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $250.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser Transit This c. 1908
Keuffel & Esser transit is in fine condition. The serial # of 12843 is on the plate.
It is a light duty explorer or preliminary survey size instrument and has a
9" scope. All motions are free and smooth.
Good optics w/ crosshairs. Compass points north. Nice even
patina. An overall nice piece in nice condition.Good + . . . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
K
& E Builders Transit in Box A super condition instrument that looks to date from the 50's or
60's and before K & E started putting this style or model instrument in plastic dome cases. It has a single 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 those from China that Home Depot & Lowes peddles these
days for more money.
Fine . . . . . . $125.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel
& Esser - K & E Convertible Builders Transit Level w/ Box A super condition instrument that dates from
1915
given the serial # 31744. These
interesting looking survey instruments are called convertible levels because
the scope can be turned in the standards 90 degrees from its fixed wye level
setup to become a transit of sorts able to shoot vertical angles. They
are a graphic instrument that make for nice display pieces.
Fine . . . . . . $225.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser 5062 "Roebling" Twisted Frame Solar Transit in Original Box This
is an early, unusual, and very nice condition K & E # 5062 "Full
Engineers" solar transit. The serial # is 2632 and it
is dated on the door label 1893. While K & E was in business since the
late 1860s, they did not start producing instruments until 1885. The dating
chart at the SurveyHistory.org site does not go back any earlier than 1900
so the date on the door label is the best indicator of the age. This early K & E solar transit has an interesting provenance having descended down through the well known Roebling family. (See inscription on box label) The Roebling name is best known for their association in designing & building the Brooklyn Bridge, and for their wire, cable, and rule business J. Roebling Co. Both of the Roebling names seen on the label, Col. W. A. Roebling CE, and John Roebling II CE have their own Wikipedia pages. The inscription says the transit was given by the father Col. W. A. Roebling CE to the son John Roebling II CE in 1892. They were an interesting family and it is a good read. A careful reading or analysis of their histories might reveal the reason or occasion for the gift, be it a graduation gift, Christmas present, or other.
This transit was ordered with many factory upgrades, or bells and whistles, and has some unusual non catalog features as well. Present are 2 loupes or magnifiers, an original marked K & E internal reel plumb bob, the sunshade, an unusual folding combo tool w/ spanner & screwdriver marked K & E, an oversize pencil marked K & E, a black cloth dust cover / bag and more. There are also 2 optional gradient adjusters and it has the upgrade 3 leg leveling base as well.
As for non factory features, note the long level vial below the scope. It is hung approx. 2" lower than typical. There is also a mirror wired to the scope at an angle. It
looks to function like
angled viewing mirrors found on
Precision Levels allowing the user to sight through the scope while more
easily viewing the level vial at the same time. The transit came with a black paper cover
over the compass face. I am not sure if this was just
something having to do w/ storage, or if it served some other purpose
related to the lower level and being used in a location the compass was not
needed or would interfere.The overall cosmetic condition of the transit is very nice. The distinctive looking twisted frame standards K & E used on this instrument were only offered for about 10 years or so.It looks to have seen little use and some of the motions are stiff from sitting idle for 120 some years. It does not need to be cleaned, but could use a lube job. The green / bronze lacquer finish on the instrument is very nice. The almond colored compass face is flawless. The needle lifter is not functioning, and the needle does not swing properly. It has a 5" vertical circle w/ optional scale reader and fine adjust. The original finish on the Mahogany box is in like new condition noting minor scuffs. The key is present.
A K & E 8' extendable grade rod is present. It also comes with the proper and original collapsible leg tripod. It is very nice noting one of two leg clamps is broken. It still works with just one clamp remaining. Please look at all the pics to see the exceptional condition and all features. A super nice example of a rare instrument that will display very nicely in any number of settings.
Fine . . . . . . $1450.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel & Esser # 5165 Engineer's
Locating Transit The serial number on this
nice looking and hard to find transit is 10973. It can be found on the
plate near the window and the patent dates this transit was manufactured under.
According to the chart it dates from 1905. The compass needle measures
3 5/8" and is operable. With its 9" scope, it is approx. the same size
as the Preliminary transits or the light mountain models. A very nice instrument all in all. The box
is pretty nice, and I can supply a nice collapsible leg tripod for an additional
$155.00.
Excellent . . . . .$495.00 SOLD
Keuffel
& Esser & Y & S #5166 Special Survey Transit Serial # 62968
This is a very nice Preliminary Surveying Transit that
carries both the well known name of K & E and the lesser known but widely
respected firm of Young & Sons a long established instrument making company
from PA that K & E bought out in 1918. This instrument was well cared
for and shows little signs of use or abuse. This transit is basically the same
size and design as the Light Mountain Transit, but was offered during its time
for slightly less money. The finishes are near fine, and all of adjusting
screws move freely and the optics are clear. Inside the box the label
says this is a Special, and I assume that refers to the crosshair arrangement
as it has in addition to the 3 horizontal and 1 vertical line that you would
expect there are also 2 diagonal lines running in each direction as well.
All 3 of the bubbles are good, The compass is nice, the scales are nice, the
16oz bob is a Dietzgen, and the small feet are in the pouch to convert the base
for tabletop use. The lens cap and sun shade are here as well. All in
all a great little piece in super condition. Use it or display it in the
collection it is ready for either.
Excellent . . . . .$595.00 SOLD
K
& E #5060 Engineer's Transit This is a very large and graphic
transit. The scope measures 11". The serial # is 63463 which
would date this from approx 1936 according to the dating chart found on the
www.SurveyHistory.org site. It does have one apology in that one of the 4 leveling screws is stripped and
slides up and down in its hole. The threads are worn, and i believe that
simply replacing it will solve the problem. The box is proper but beat
up and very dirty. The tripod size is 3 5/8 x 12.
Excellent . . . . .$495.00 SOLD
Keuffel & Esser # 5127
Builders Transit This style of
transit w/o a compass was generally used by trades where a compass or
orientation was not important such as builders. The condition is
super and it is all original.
Excellent . . . . .$395.00 SOLD
Keuffel & Esser
Builders Transit This style of
transit has a nice contrasting color scheme. I think it may have
been refinished. The ring to the left is an adapter to mount it to the
3 1/2 x 8 tripod that it came with. The condition is
super.
Excellent . . . . .$495.00 SOLD
Keuffel & Esser # 5129 Preliminary
Survey Transit This is a nice looking transit
that dates from approx 1918 as evidenced by the serial # 35,--- which is found
on the compass face. It is in overall very nice condition and has 90%
or more of the black / bronzed finish on most of the instrument.
The scope measures approx. 8" long. The compass is functional and the needle
on this example measures about 3 1/2" . On the side it has a vertical
half circle vernier which is 3 1/2" in Dia. All screws and motions move
freely and as they should. The optics clear and clean. The base
measures 2 3/4", and the instrument weighs approx 8 lbs. It is an ideal
size for use or display. A nice piece, in a hard to find size.
Excellent . . . . .$695.00 SOLD
Keuffel
& Esser # 5129 Preliminary Survey Transit This is a great looking transit that dates from 1908 as evidenced by the serial
# 16974 which is found both on the compass face and the Mahogany box.
It is in overall very nice condition and has 98% or more of the green lacquer
finish on the scope portion. The horizontal limb in its original brass
finish has mellowed to a soft warm patina. The compass is operational
and the needle on this example measures about 2 3/4" . It has a full vertical
circle which is 3 1/2" in Dia. All screws and motions move freely and
as they should. The optics and crosshairs are clear and clean. The
base measures 2 3/4", and the instrument weighs approx. 8 lbs. It is an
ideal size for use or display and it is a great looker with its contrasting
finishes. A nice piece, in a hard to find size.
Excellent . . . . .$595.00 SOLD
Keuffel
& Esser Engineers or Architects Survey Transit
This is a nice looking transit that dates from the 1920's
according to the serial number found on the compass face. There are earlier
patent dates from the 1890's on the outer brass ring. The 3 level bubbles
are all clear and look original. The optics are crisp and there is a single
cross for crosshairs. The scope measures approx 12" and the mounting ring
for the tripod is about 3 5/8 ". The overall condition of this transit
is very nice, and it has aged to a nice 2 tone brownish brass patina that close
to 100 years age provides. It has the original box which someone has painted
in the past (see pics).
Architects or engineers style transits typically had 10-12" scopes. The half vertical circle measures 4 1/2" and is graduated to 30 degrees or 1 minute to either side. The compass face is 6" and the needle measures just over 4". It is operable. The vernier under the small windows is set up the same 30 degrees to either side. All motions are pretty smooth and operate correctly. This transit will display nicely, or would make a good user.
Good . . . . .$795.00 SOLD
Keuffel
& Esser Paragon Model # 74-0000 Engineers Transit This Keuffel & Esser Paragon transit is a beautiful
piece of engineering from the end of an era in the US. K & E's Paragon
transits were one of the last American made transits that were offered for sale
in the United States, and this is one of the last of those. The Keuffel
& Esser Co. had had a long and notable run in the industry beginning as far
back as the 1860's.
This particular instrument has a additional history and provenance that sets it apart from standard K & E Paragon transits you might find. This Paragon transit was never sold by K & E and was originally used as an executive sales demonstrator until it was presented to the last acting president of the company Gary Wrench, in 1982. Included is its Rosewood Laminate carrying case, and a NOS collapsible leg transit that were given to the last president in appreciation for his services in the early 80's. It has been on display for the last 25 or so years in Mr. Wrenches home and office.
The transit itself stands about 14" tall and it has a 12" scope. The 4 1'2" vertical circle / vernier is engraved on silver to 1 minute. The optics are clear and crisp. The crosshairs present. The compass works as it should and the serial number of 234,304 is on a label under the glass. It has a 4" gold plated needle. A fine instrument in superb condition that marks the end of an era and an American icon, the Keuffel & Esser Company.
Excellent . . . . .$1250.00 SOLD
Keuffel & Esser 5085 Engineers Transit This is a large & nice looking Engineers transit that dates
from 1908. The serial # 17657 which is found on the plate outside the compass. There are two patent
dates from near the turn of the century stamped there as well. This was the largest size transit that K & E produced and is listed in their catalogs as an Engineers Transit. This transit has K & E's distinctive twisted leg standards that were promoted as being stronger and superior to their earlier A frame design in the catalog write-ups. They give the instrument a very graphic look and interesting look the way one is twisted in the front and one in the rear and opposite from side to side. I believe K & E only used this design for 10 - 15 years and were phased out around 1913 or so.
It is in overall very nice condition and has 98% or more of the black matt finish on the upper portions, and a gloss black finish on the lower base. The scope measures 11 1/2" long. It has a 4 1/2" gold plated needle, and the silvered compass face is super clean. There is no discoloration or corrosion here at all. It appears that one of the small level vials has been changed out at some point, and there is a repair tag inside the box that would indicate that this was a factory repair. It is equipped with a half circle vernier and the readout is to the rear of one leg and graduated to 15 degrees. The horizontal vernier are graduated to 30 degrees. The small opaque shades for them are missing but are an easy fix.
All screws and motions move freely and as they should. The optics are clear and clean and there is one vertical and three horizontal crosshairs. The base measures 3 1/2" x 8. The tripod is proper and nice, noting that one leg bracket has a crack in the brass. There are two of these on each leg so it is still operational. The transit weighs over 16 lbs and has a commanding presence. It is an ideal size for display and it is a great looker with its near perfect finishes. A nice piece.
Excellent . . . . .$495.00 SOLD
Keuffel & Esser Engineers Transit
This is a large & nice looking Engineers transit that dates from 1927 or so.
The serial # 52593 is found on the plate outside the compass.
This transit has K & E's inverted U standards that were promoted as being stronger and superior to their earlier A frame design in the catalog write-ups. They give the instrument a very graphic look and interesting look. They adopted this style after the twisted leg standards were dropped and I believe K & E used this basic idea until getting out of the surveying instrument manufacturing business back in the 80's.
The transit is in overall very nice condition and has 98% or more of the black matt finish on the upper portions, and a gloss black finish on the lower base. The scope measures 11 1/2" long. It has a 4 1/2" gold plated needle, and the silvered compass face is super clean. There is no discoloration or corrosion here at all. The horizontal vernier are graduated to 30 degrees. The small opaque shades are present. All screws and motions move freely and as they should. The optics are clear and clean and there is one vertical and three horizontal crosshairs. It takes a 3 1/2" x 8 tripod. The box looks to be owner made using parts from the original box.
Good + . . . . . .$595.00 SOLD!
K & E / Keuffel & Esser
#5077 Light Mountain Transit
This fine condition small transit is
very lightweight and designed for use in the field. The finish on the
instrument is near perfect. The tripod mount size is 2 3/4". From the serial # 24908 this transit
dates from 1911. The catalog I have from 1909 shows this model with
what is known as twisted frame standards. This transit has a more typical A
frame standards. The scope is approx 8" long. It has an
erect image and the
optics are crisp and clear. The crosshairs are present. The silvered compass
with 3" needle operates properly. All other motions seem to
operate as they should. All level vials are full and original. The box is nice.
There is no
tripod. This transit will display very nicely and be a highlight of any collection of surveying related instruments.
Fine . . . . . .$695.00 SOLD!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser Twisted Frame Transit
K & E offered this design transit with its distinctive design standards
back in the teens. It gives the instrument
a great look, but was expensive to produced and it was a short lived
idea that disappeared by the 1920's.
Good + . . . . .$995.00 SOLD!
1950's K
& E / Keuffel & Esser 5081 Transit This
surveying instrument with a serial # of 134928 dates from 1955 according to
available dating charts. After comparing features in a 1950's catalog I believe the model # is 5081 Engineer's Mountain & Mining
Transit. The box seen in the first pic is a custom made metal affair
that was well done and thought out. It has heavy foam padding inside to help
protect the instrument during transport. The tray the instrument is
attached to is fitted like a typical wooden box the way it slides in.
The metal box about doubles the weight as it weighs over 40 lbs. when in the box. The scope is 10" long and the optics are crisp and clear. There is one vertical cross hair, and one horizontal, not in the middle. It appears 2 horizontal crosshairs are missing. All of the level vials are full and appear to be original. The compass with it 3" gold plated needle operates properly. All motions are free and nice. It will need some work done in order to be a user, but will display nicely as is.
Good . . . . . . $245.00 SOLD!!
K & E / Young Farm / Drainage Level
This small level looks to date from the early 20th century. Level is unmarked
but the collectors reference calls it off as a Young / K & E product which would date it from the 1920s or so.
They were designed for casual use lying out fences , drainage and similar
tasks on the farm or ranch. The level bubble is good.
It is brought into focus by pulling the tube out.
There is a target included. It looks to have seen little use
and is in excellent condition. A nice antique display piece. Good + . . . . . . . $40.00 SOLD!!
Buff & Berger & Berger
or
Buff
Surveying Transits - Instruments
The
Buff & Berger Bevel-Limb Transit
his large & graphic Buff & Berger Bevel-Limb Transit is a rare
instrument. It is in very good overall condition.
There is no serial number but given the Buff & Berger inscription it pre-dates
the partnership breaking up in 1898. This style transit with a beveled limb made the back cover of the 1897 Buff & Berger catalog and was also offered in a few later Berger catalogs after the Buff & Berger partnership dissolved in 1898.
A renamed version still commands the back page of the 1908 Berger catalog I have. I had one other Buff & Berger bevel limb transit 15 or so years ago and have never seen another offered for sale, or in other collections. That other one came from a direct descendent of the original makers family. The catalogs that featured this transit as the back cover also featured the rare double standard mining transit they offered as the centerfold. The prominent placement in the catalog was not by accident. It is a very special piece.
This transit is one of the few American instruments produced with a beveled limb on the horizontal circle. The write up in the catalog explains why the idea was not utilized for long and why so few were produced. It also explains why it was not promoted as a "new improved - better idea". Bottom line, it was difficult and expensive to produce, very fragile, and prone to wear out or get damaged. The write up further warns that repairs would cost several times more than on a typical instrument with flat plate vernier scales.
The catalog description goes on and on about all the draw backs, and ends with the statement "To our mind bevel graduations should be confined to exceptional cases and to larger instruments read by micrometer microscopes. It is a wonder anyone ever bought one given the catalog write-up. Marketing 101 at its worst.
The scope is 12" long, and the compass needle 3 /34" long. The brass areas have a nice even natural patina. The optics are good. There is one vertical crosshair. All motions operate smoothly. The needle swings freely and points north. All level vials are good. The box is period and made for the instrument but is sort of crudely done so am not sure if it is factory. It has a 3 point leveling system, and the proper tripod with some minor repairs is included.
One of but a handful known. This rare beveled limb transit will display very nicely and has a great graphic look and nice patina to it. Opportunity!!!
Fine . . . . . . $1500.00 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!!
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!!
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!!
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
|
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!!
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!!
Lietz and other
California Makers
Surveying Instruments
The
John
Roach Surveying Transit John Roach's
working dates were from approx. 1833 to 1891 when he died. He was
California's second well known surveying instrument maker. William
Albert Schmolz was California's first recognized surveying instrument maker. John Roach came
to California during the beginning of the Gold Rush era. The serial # on
this transit is 791 and using some creative math and a bit of guesswork would date this
transit from a period near the Civil War.Before coming to California Roach had been in partnership in New York with a fellow named Warner. Another instrument maker named J. C. Sala worked with John Roach here in California and later took over the business after Roaches death in 1891. Roach instruments are not common and are a well made example of precision quality.
The transits scope is 11" long which would make this an engineers or surveyors transit . It has an erect image and the optics are clear w/ crosshairs. The blackened compass face is nice, and the needle operates properly. It has a nice overall appearance and patina. All motions seem to operate as they should noting that the thumbscrew which would lock the scope is broken off. The box is OK. There is no tripod.
This transit will display very nicely and be a highlight of any collection of surveying related instruments or California history.
Good + . . . . . .$950.00 SOLD!
A. Lietz of San Francisco Preliminary / Light Mountain Size "Universal Jr." Transit
This A Lietz transit has a serial # of 6022. It looks to date from 1920 or
earlier. There are no certain means to know the exact date for Lietz
instruments other than they stopped producing them and started importing
them right after WWII. A. Lietz first opened his business in San
Francisco in 1882. This is a small compact transit with a 9" scope and 3 1/2" needle. It is designated the Universal Jr. on the compass face. There is a drilled and tapped hole in the top of the scope as if to accept a solar attachment or mining scope. The compass face is very nice and there is no corrosion or damage. The finish is a worn dark lacquer and natural brass. It has a great patina with contrasts of the different natural brass colors used for the different parts. The transit is in overall very nice condition. All screws and motions move freely and operate as they should. The optics are clear and clean and there is one vertical and three horizontal crosshairs. The box is original and has been oiled. The door has an early repair done to the inside. This transit also includes the original proper tripod. It has repairs done to two of the legs that were carefully and tastefully done. You can almost not see them. Although it has not been calibrated this will make for a nice user or will display nicely in the proper setting.
Good + . . . . . .$750.00 SOLD!
A.
Lietz / San Francisco CA Light Mountain Size Transit This small Transit
is in good condition. It dates from the 30's or so. The box is
nice, and the tripod is included.
Good . . . . .$450.00 SOLD
Lietz
Engineers Mining Transit This Lietz
Mining Transit is a large and commanding instrument in good overall condition. The name info is
under the glass below the north point on the compass face. The serial
# is 13677. The A. Lietz Co. of San Francisco stopped making
instruments around the beginning of WWII and opened up shop shortly before
the turn of the century. This transit would date from some
point before that and after the turn of the century. Note how the ends
of the scope axles have threaded caps for mounting a second scope and
counterweight there. Below the plate is a swinging arm that would hold
magnifiers for reading the vernier plate scales. Those magnifiers are missing.
The optics are OK, and crosshairs present. There is no box. A
nice display piece. Good . . . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
A.
Lietz Co. Light Mountain Transit I believe
that this beautiful little instrument would be considered a Light Mountain Size
Transit, both because of the overall size, and the bayonet or twist lock system
for locking it to the tripod. But it may be their Expedition size
as it is so small, and I have no catalogs to check on this. The
tube measures 7.5 inches long, and the overall height is just about 10" to the
top of the wheel. The optics are clear and crisp as are the 3 crosshairs.
The compass measures just 3" across and works properly. The limb measures
4.5 inches across at this point. The serial # 6220 is written on the compass
face which is black and in perfect condition. The level vials are good
and appear to be original. All of the other knobs and wheels appear to
be working as well. This piece has never been polished and
has a nice even patina. Those portions that were finished in black look
good as well, noting some minor losses to the edges of the wheel. At some
point, a well meaning antique dealer did refinish the box. There are a
series of original labels inside the lid of the box. The mounting
system for the instrument to the tripod is a simple line it up and twist with
no threads to be found. I have given you a series of pics, but if
you need more or have questions simply ask.
Good . . . . .$750.00 SOLD
Lietz
Type 22 Preliminary Transit in Box
An interesting instrument. The tag indicates it dates from the 1920s. With a 6" scope, and weighing just 2 1/2 pounds ones first thought
would be to call this near miniature transit an expedition size transit, but
Lietz calls it their
Type 22 Preliminary Transit and their description of it mentions it not being for
precise work, but rather for farmers, ranchers, ditchers and so forth.This example has had the base modified so it will fit on a standard tripod. They took the hard plastic cap off a transit and drilled a hole and bolted the transit to that. Should work, but - - - - . It could be easily removed and would be back to the way it was first offered. Beyond that it is a nice looking instrument that will display nicely where a small instrument is desirable.
Good . . . . . . $175.00 SOLD!!
H.
S. Crocker San Francisco / Sacramento
Surveyor's Transit This unusual
surveying transit is in excellent condition.It is marked H. S. Crocker Co. San
Francisco / Sacramento under the glass on the silvered compass face.
While there is plenty of info on the H. S. Crocker company and their history in California
during and after the Gold Rush Era, I can find no information or reference to them
making surveying instruments, or mention of other instruments marked with
their name. There are no other
examples or references to others be found at the several surveying
instrument reference sites
online, and there is no reference in Smarts reference book on instruments either. One
possibility is that Crocker is not the maker, and that it was made for them
by somebody else. I am not sure who that would be as it has
characteristics unlike most of the better known makers of the time. I
am pretty sure it is not a Gurley or K & E, and have been told it is perhaps
a Queen or Young out of Pennsylvania. The most notable feature is the way the caps are done to hold the scope in place with
split screws. (see Pic 5226) The scope on this unusual instrument is 9" long making it a light mountain size. The optics are crisp and clear. All of the level vials are full and appear to be original. All motions are smooth. The box shows signs of having been covered with fabric or canvas at one time given all the small holes in the wood.
A rare instrument in very nice condition and will be a highlight of any display or collection.
Fine . . . . . . $1750.00 SOLD!!
J. C. Sala Transit J. C. Sala's
Working dates are from the 1891 to 1916. He operated out of San
Francisco and advertised himself as the successor to John Roach the well
known California instrument maker who he had
worked for.The serial # is 1031. The overall cosmetic condition is fine with original finishes. It is a small light mountain or preliminary size w/ a 9" scope. There is no box. A very nice display piece.
Good + . . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!
Pennsylvania Made Transits
The
William
Young / Maker Philadelphia Survey Transit This
is an
early and nice example of William Young's work. Young is credited with producing the first surveying instruments known as
transits in the 1830s by combining the features of levels and compasses into a single instrument.The serial # of this transit is 3859. The Smithsonian has a very similar instrument in their collection with a serial # in the three thousands that they date as being from the 1850s. I have an extendable leg tripod w/ the proper leveling head that fits the tapered mount on the bottom of this transit. There is no room in he box for the transit with the base attached so this must be as it was sold and correct. The leveling head is marked with Young's 1858 patents. The legs of the tripod may be replacements given the "Tripod Type - F" marking on one leg bracket.
Good . . . . . $650.00 SOLD!!
Heller & Brightly Engineer's Transit
This original condition of this large and graphic looking instrument is very
nice. The serial #
8150 is on the compass face of
this Heller & Brightly Engineer's or Surveyor's transit.
That would
date it from approx 1915. That information is available on the very
informative site
www.surveyhistory.org where you can find dating charts for not only
Heller & Brightly instruments but other surveying instrument makers as well. The
Smithsonian site has a detailed bio on this company and informs us that his company was formed between Charles Heller
and Charles Brightly in the 1870's. The Mahogany box is nice. The leveling head is detachable and stores separately inside the box. All motions on it and the instrument are free and smooth. The compass needle does not swing as it should and the lock feature does not move the compass rose up and down to release it. The level vials are all good. The optics and crosshairs are good. This transit also includes a correctly marked and original tripod. The tripod is very nice with nicely tapered and curved legs. Note the heavy duty locks on the legs. Heller and Brightly instruments were very well made and had a lot of ungraded features that made their instruments stand apart from other lesser makers from the same era.
These early transits were hand built by Heller and Brightly employees. Over the course of their instrument making period they produced approx 4000 instruments. Most were sold by order rather than marketed by distributers.All in all one of the nicest made American transits that I have had the pleasure of offering.
Good + . . . . . .$1250.00 SOLD!!
Heller & Brightly Info from the Smithsonian Site
Heller & Brightly Charles S. Heller (1839–1912) was born in Germany, and moved with his family to the United States in the late 1840s. He went to work for William J. Young in 1855, and became a partner in William J. Young & Co. in 1865. Charles H. Brightly (1817–1897) was born in England, arrived in the United States in the 1830s, and worked as a machinist in Philadelphia before going into partnership with Heller in 1870. Within a few years Heller & Brightly were said to have "done more than any other [firm] in this country of late years to increase competition in the trade, and to wake up the different makers to a sense of the many improvements that may be made in the instruments in common use." Heller & Brightly instruments were used in every state in the union, and in several foreign countries. The firm was incorporated in 1926, and remained in business until 1968.
Heller & Brightly was a traditional craft workshop. There were only a few employees at any one time, each could produce an entire instrument, and each was reasonably well paid. They produced some 100 instruments per year from 1870 to 1887. Annual production rose to 216 instruments in 1891, then dropped precipitously and remained at modest levels thereafter. Each instrument has a serial number, the first being #4400. Most Heller & Brightly instruments were ordered directly from the shop, with only a few sold in stores.
Ref: Robert C. Miller, "The Heller & Brightly Records," Rittenhouse 4 (1990): 43–55. Link: http://americanhistory2.si.edu/surveying/maker.cfm?makerid=16
Heller
& Brightly Engineer's Transit In the early 1870's Charles Heller and Charles Brightly
formed this well known Pennsylvania surveying and scientific instrument making company.
They made very large and very heavy duty pieces. This transit has an
11" long scope, and the bright laquear finish is original and correct. The Mahogany box is nice, noting that the leather handle has broken off. Note how the leveling base is housed separately in the box, and how it is a twist lock affair to join the top half to it. All motions are free and smooth and the level vials are all good. There is one empty hole on the barrel that would hold a crosshair and so while the optics are OK, there is a missing crosshair.
Heller and Brightly was a small company that produced less than 100 instruments a year in their early days. 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!!
Info from the Smithsonian Site / Heller & Brightly
Charles S. Heller (1839–1912) was born in Germany, and moved with his family to the United States in the late 1840s. He went to work for William J. Young in 1855, and became a partner in William J. Young & Co. in 1865. Charles H. Brightly (1817–1897) was born in England, arrived in the United States in the 1830s, and worked as a machinist in Philadelphia before going into partnership with Heller in 1870. Within a few years Heller & Brightly were said to have "done more than any other [firm] in this country of late years to increase competition in the trade, and to wake up the different makers to a sense of the many improvements that may be made in the instruments in common use." Heller & Brightly instruments were used in every state in the union, and in several foreign countries. The firm was incorporated in 1926, and remained in business until 1968.Heller & Brightly was a traditional craft workshop. There were only a few employees at any one time, each could produce an entire instrument, and each was reasonably well paid. They produced some 100 instruments per year from 1870 to 1887. Annual production rose to 216 instruments in 1891, then dropped precipitously and remained at modest levels thereafter. Each instrument has a serial number, the first being #4400. Most Heller & Brightly instruments were ordered directly from the shop, with only a few sold in stores.
Ref: Robert C. Miller, "The Heller & Brightly Records," Rittenhouse 4 (1990): 43–55.
Link: http://americanhistory2.si.edu/surveying/maker.cfm?makerid=16
Heller & Brightly
Mining Transit
This is a later piece by this famous PA maker. Note that the ends
of the main axle of the scopes are threaded and set up to receive a
second auxiliary scope for use in mines and the like.
Good + . . . . . .$750.00 SOLD!!
Queen & Co. Aluminum Transit
w/ Tripod This is an unusual light mountain
size Aluminum transit by the well known PA maker Queen & Co. The serial # is
5505. It weighs a mere XXXX. Similar instruments in brass would weigh close to twice as much. Aluminum transits by any maker from this period are pretty unusual. According to information provided by a well known surveying instrument collector, it is only the 2nd Aluminum transit known by Queen.
The scope is 8" long and the plate measures approx. 5 1/2. The needle is 4". The compass face has a great looking patterned finish that is very unusual. It also has an unusual 3/4 vertical arc as opposed to a full circle or 1/2 circle that one would normally see. Another unusual feature is the tripod mount. It is a clamp on style as opposed to the typical threaded mount. The optics and crosshairs are good. All motions are free. Bubbles good. It has a great look with its near all aluminum construction and just the screws and a few aux. pieces in brass. An interesting and nice condition instrument for the collection that will make for a nice display piece.
Good + . . . . . . $ SOLD!!
Queen
& Co Engineers Transit
This is a large & nice looking Queen & Co. Engineers transit. James
Queen first opened shop in 1853, but the name of the firm was changed to
Queen and Co in 1896 and this dates from after that time.The serial # 8414.is found on the compass face under the glass. There
are no published records to help pinpoint the exact date that this was made
but it dates from before 1912 when the name was again changed.. The transit is in overall very nice condition and has 90% or more of the black matt finish remaining. The scope measures 11" long. It has a 5" needle, and the silvered compass face is nice. The needle swings freely and operates as it should. . The horizontal vernier are graduated to 30 degrees. The small opaque shades are present.All screws and motions move freely and as they should. The optics are clear and crosshairs present. It takes a 3 1/2" x 8 tripod fixed leg tripod which is present but not pictured. It is included in the price. . The box is OK, but is damaged and has been repaired. A nice display piece at a reasonable price.
Good . . . . . .$550.00 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!!
William
Young ALUMINUM Transit An
unusual and nice example of William Young's work. Young is credited
with producing the first surveying instruments known as transits in the 1830s.
The serial # of this transit is in the 8000s thus dating it from shortly
after the turn of the century and before Young sold out to K & E in 1918
or so.The use of Aluminum in surveying instruments, because of the light weight and being non-magnetic is quite unusual on instruments this early. Aluminum was still a relatively new material to work with and had drawbacks in use. It was soft, and at this point in time was pretty brittle and prone to cracking. As can be seen some parts are in brass as well, and the contrasting materials, and finishes, give it a very pleasing look.
The transit has been cleaned and adjusted. The motions are OK noting some stiffness in the main plate. Good optics w/ crosshairs. It comes in the original box. The fixed leg wooden tripod, with an Aluminum head, is included as well.
Fine . . . . . $1200.00 SOLD!!
Warren
Knight "Sterling" Solar Transit w/ Saegmuller Solar Attachment
This Warren Knight Solar transit is a very nice instrument that has a great look
when all set up. This transit is set up to accept the Saegmuller solar attachment
seen in the first pic mounted on the board next to the instrument. K & E
used a dovetail sliding arrangement to mount their Saegmuller solar on their instruments.
Warren Knights version used a threaded mount.
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 OK. The compass face is nice, and
the needle operates properly. All other motions seem to operate as they
should. The box is nice. The instrument itself has developed a nice even
patina on the brass surfaces, and those areas that were finished in black
are showing their age.Solar transits were developed so that the user could accurately determine ones 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 compass and were not an accurate means to determine ones location in certain 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 looks like a miniature sextant, was used on Gurley instruments and on those by California makers Sala and Roach. K & E used the Saegmuller style, as seen here, which was a small telescope that mounts above the main scope. Other types od solar attachments are the Smith and Pearson Patent Solar Attachments named after the patent holder or inventor.
This solar transit will display very nicely and be a highlight of any collection of surveying related instruments.
Good + . . . . . . $2250.00 SOLD!!
William Young Transit
This is a nice early engineer's transit by the famous PA maker William
Young. It comes with the proper tripod.
Good + . . . . . .$650.00 SOLD!
Heller
& Brightly Transit The serial #
on this super condition Surveyor's transit is 4683, and from the information
available from the Smithsonian's informative site on surveying instruments we
can surmise that this instrument was made in the early 1870's just a few short
years after this company was formed between Charles Heller and Charles Brightly.
The serial # can be found in three separate places, on the inside of the box,
on the lower detachable leveling base, and under the glass of the highly engraved
compass face. From the information found at the Smithsonian's site we
can see that this company started their serial #'s at 4400 which would put this
instrument at the very beginnings of this companies time line.
( see below for the info from that site, and a link to it for further info )
The original condition of this instrument is second to none, and it is obvious that it has seen little or no use over the last 130 years. The unusual Mahogany box is nice, noting that the leather handle has come unattached. This transit also includes a correctly marked and original tripod, and the correctly marked original plumb bob and an instruction sheet on setting the instrument up are also included. ( These are Not Pictured ) The original lacquer finish is near perfect and all motions are free and smooth. The level vials are all good.
These early transits were hand built and Heller and Brightly was a small company that produced less than 100 instruments a year in their early days. Note the unique feature of the leveling base being detachable and fitting into a separate holding position inside the box. All in all one of the nicest and earliest American transits that I have had the pleasure of buying. The condition is second to none, and it will be a long time before another in this condition or this early ever shows up again on the market.
Good . . . . .$1250.00 SOLD
Info from the Smithsonian Site
Heller & Brightly Charles S. Heller (1839–1912) was born in Germany, and moved with his family to the United States in the late 1840s. He went to work for William J. Young in 1855, and became a partner in William J. Young & Co. in 1865. Charles H. Brightly (1817–1897) was born in England, arrived in the United States in the 1830s, and worked as a machinist in Philadelphia before going into partnership with Heller in 1870. Within a few years Heller & Brightly were said to have "done more than any other [firm] in this country of late years to increase competition in the trade, and to wake up the different makers to a sense of the many improvements that may be made in the instruments in common use." Heller & Brightly instruments were used in every state in the union, and in several foreign countries. The firm was incorporated in 1926, and remained in business until 1968.Heller & Brightly was a traditional craft workshop. There were only a few employees at any one time, each could produce an entire instrument, and each was reasonably well paid. They produced some 100 instruments per year from 1870 to 1887. Annual production rose to 216 instruments in 1891, then dropped precipitously and remained at modest levels thereafter. Each instrument has a serial number, the first being #4400. Most Heller & Brightly instruments were ordered directly from the shop, with only a few sold in stores.
Ref: Robert C. Miller, "The Heller & Brightly Records," Rittenhouse 4 (1990): 43–55.
LLink: http://americanhistory2.si.edu/surveying/maker.cfm?makerid=16
Heller
& Brightly
Engineers Transit The overall condition
of this large graphic surveyor's / engineers transit is very nice. The main scope on this surveyors
or engineers transit is 11" long. The
bronzed lacquer finish is in great condition and has developed a nice even
patina. The serial numbers on the instrument and box match. 2 level
vials are good and one is empty. All motions are free and the compass works.
Note how the leveling head detaches and mounts separate in the box. The serial # is 5228 which from published records we can assume dates this large transit w/ compass from the early 1880's or so. Heller and Brightly formed their partnership in 1870. Heller had worked for Young previously, and before Young died in 1870 he had become a partner in that firm. This was before teaming up with Brightly soon after Young's death and starting the new firm of Heller & Brightly. H & B began their numbering system at 4400 and so this would be approx. the 800th instrument made after they began operations.
All in all a pretty rare instrument that will not turn up often and will make for a great display in the mining collection, or the surveying instrument collection.
Good . . . . . . $1095.00 SOLD!!
Knox
& Shain Surveyors / Engineers Transit The partnership of Knox
and Shain was begun in the 1850's. The Smithsonian sight says they opened
their shop in 1850, while the bio on them in Smarts says they were first listed
together in the Philadelphia directories in 1855. The serial # on the compass
face is 900. It is not known if this number reflects the date from the beginning
of this partnership, or from the time Knox left the employ of Young and opened his
own shop some years earlier. This transit though has the look and fell of
an instrument that dates from the 1860's to 1880's. The Smithsonian
site mentions that Knox & Shain instruments look similar to Young's transits because
both partners worked for him in the past. The information there goes on to
say they bought the dividing engine of Jesse Ramsden, an early English maker of
surveying and other scientific instruments. . This surveyor's transit is in good condition. It stands just about 11" tall to the top of the 5" vertical circle which reads to 30 degrees. This transit is from an era when the leveling base remained with the tripod, which we do not have. There is no place for it in the box. which is OK. The box is dirty and has been re-glued where it split at some point in the past but has a great look and a lot of character.
The compass is a gold finish and works properly. The needle is 5" and the transit measures approx 7" across. The silvered horizontal vernier is inside under the glass and operates as it should. All other knobs and motions are free as well. All three level bubbles are full and appear to be original. The optics are clear, and it focuses well, but there do not seem to be any cross hairs if there ever were any.
This Knox & Shain is a very early transit, by a relatively rare and obscure maker from Philadelphia one of the hubs of early technology manufacturing in America. This transit will make for a great showpiece on display in the collection or any other setting.
Good+ . . . . . . .$650.00 SOLD!
Antique & Collectible
Surveying Transits & Instruments
The
A. S. Aloe Optician / St. Louis Mo. Transit
w/ French Cross This
is an odd form transit that instead of having a typical horizontal plate,
has what is called a French Cross, a drum like device w/ a compass, several sighting
slots and a revolving features, below the scope. Below that is a small 4 point leveling base. It all fits tightly &
neatly into the box shown in the pics.The French Cross is inscribed with the Aloe name, St Louis Mo. location and his occupation, Optician. At different times Aloe offered other makers work, including Gurley pieces and ones of French manufacture. He marked many of them as if he was the maker. A. S. Aloes working dates are from approx. 1860 to his death in 1893. After that the company continued with various owners.
Typical French crosses are devices to help the user find right angles. There are sighting slits in the body at 90 degrees to each other. It also has a silvered scale. It is unusual to find one combined with a transit scope, and especially with an American makers name. An interesting and nice display piece.
Fine . . . . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!
Bausch & Lomb
Surveying Transit Bausch & Lomb
is most famous for their line of binoculars
and other optics but ventured in to the surveying instrument field after George N. Saegmuller,
the inventor of the solar attachment that bears his name, joined the company in 1905.
They stopped making instruments for the general public during WWI so they were
not in the surveying instrument business for long. There is a nice history
on the company at the
SurveyHistory.org
site. This transit has the logo the company adopted after 1907 and dates from right around that time period. The transit comes in the proper original box. It is a large, heavy, and overall nice condition piece. All motions are free, optics OK but not really crisp, good bubbles, crosshairs, etc. Box is nice.
Good + . . . . . . $350.00 SOLD!!
H. M. Pool Survey Transit H. M. Pool was
from Easton Mass. Pool was born in 1803, and according to Smart's bio on him
his working dates were from 1828 till his death in 1878. He is best
known for his compasses, and very few transits by him are known. This
transit is
a large, heavy, well built instrument with a very graphic look. The scope measures approx. 9" and the plate is 6 3/4". The compass needle is 4 1/2". The compass works as it should. All motions are free and move smoothly. The bubbles are good. The optics clear, and crosshairs are present. The box is in nice condition. It has a Thaxter label on the door. Thaxter was both a distributer and maker during this period. The transit fits inside, barely. There is no mounting ring on the bottom plate for it to attach to.
Good + . . . . . . $825.00 SOLD!!
E.
G. Soltmann N.Y. "Monarch" Transit E.
G. Soltmann does not show up as a maker in any of the references I have or
at sites on the internet. There are vague references to him being in
business as a supplier of Drafting and Engineering supplies. Under the
glass is the E. G. Soltmann name, N.Y. location, and "Monarch" in quotes
Transit. The serial # is 199. The overall cosmetic condition is fine with original finishes. It is a small light mountain or preliminary size instrument w/ a 9" scope. The needle lock is not working. The rest all seems to be OK with good optics. There is no box. A very nice display piece.
Good + . . . . . $495.00 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
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!!
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!!
John
Zeiser St Louis Transit This transit was made by the little
known and rare maker of surveying instruments who hailed from St Louis just
after the turn of the 20th century. He is not listed in Smarts or at the
Smithsonian site, but there is a brief mention of his name as a maker on one
site on the internet. This example is a nicely done Light Mountain size
with a 9 1/2 inch scope and half circle vernier. The optics are clear
and it has a simple cross for the crosshairs. All motions turn freely
and the vials are full. The compass is functional as well. It has
developed a very nice patina and will display nicely. The serial # is
550. The box seems correct, but the plate it rests on is plywood and may be
a replacement. All in all a nice looking instrument by an obscure and
relatively rare maker.
Good . . . . .$750.00 SOLD
BB.
L. Makepeace Loxo Combination Transit / Level This small combination
Transit / Level was patented in 1912 and offered for sale after that. The Makepeace
company is still in business and has an long and interesting history that began
in the 1890's. The company began in the blueprint and paper end of the business, expanded
to offer a line of K & E products, and then just after the turn of the century
Mr. Makepeace began offering his own line and design of surveying instruments
including this style instrument.
This combination level transit has seen little use and is in excellent condition. The box is very nice, and the label inside the lid is very good as well. The optics are clear, and the crosshairs present. The level vial is full and all motions turn freely. The bronzed lacquer finish is near flawless. There is no tripod. This instrument will make a nice addition to the collection to round out all the types and styles of instruments that were made and offered or would make for a good user around the property or building site. It will display very nicely.
Good . . . . .$350.00 SOLD
Bausch
& Lomb Explorer / Expedition Size Transit w/ Box This
compact / small size transit is very nice and very unusual. Bausch and Lomb
first opened their doors in the mid 1850's and were well known in the optics business
before they went into a business partnership with, George Saegmueller in 1905, and then Carl Zeiss in 1907
at which point they also began to produce Surveying instruments, transits and other
scientific and engineering instruments.
They manufactured surveying instruments up until the entry of the United States into the First World War
in about 1917. After the war, production of these sorts lines was never resumed.
It seems there was better money making things for the military and that became their primary focus. Everything on this small transit seems to be working nicely. The scope is approx. 8" long and the optics are clear with crosshairs present. The serial # 7937 is seen under the compass glass. There are also 2 patent dates found there from 1903, as well as the name Bausch & Lomb Optical Co. Note how the leveling vials are incorporated into the plate under the compass glass as opposed to being mounted on the standards like on most larger instruments. The transit fits into the box laying on it side. The box is OK with normal scuffs. The different 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 3" full vertical circle scaled to 30'.
Given the short production span of 10 years or so, and the limited number produced, instruments by these folks are pretty hard to come by.
Good . . . . . .$950.00 SOLD!!
Heitzler
Instrument Co. Transit Serial #52 Marked #1 Solar w/ 1911 Patent This is a very unusual transit in several respects. The maker mark,
Heitzler Instrument Co. Denver Colo. and the info about this transit
being serial # 52 and #1 Solar can be found under the glass on the
compass face. Frank Heitzler operated his mathematical and instrument
making business from Denver Colorado back near the turn of the last
century. He is first listed in 1904 as working by himself. For a
short period of time starting in 1906 he was in a partnership with a
fellow named Weiss an optician and instrument maker. He opened his own
business, Heitzler Instrument Co. for a short 2 years in 1910 -1912
before he disappeared from the directories. There are short Bio's on
both Weiss and Heitzler in Smarts book on surveying instruments, and all
of that 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 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.
This transit has a 3rd patent date under the glass of April 1911 and just above that says Solar #1. I can find no reference to this patent or any patent for anything solar related for this transit. Inside the box there is a space in the bottom of the box for what one would assume would hold a striding level. It might have been meant to hold something bigger, but there is no solar attachment or striding level there or elsewhere. There is also no attachment point on the transit to accept a solar attachment. Perhaps it just sat on top like a striding level might, but there are no points that show any wear from something like this either. A mystery!!
Parts of this transit like the screw base are made of Aluminum. Most of the rest is brass. The scope is 8" long. The compass needle 3 1/2" and working. The finish is in super condition, and appears to be a two coat process with a dark green / black, over a lighter base coat with some of that showing through for the effect it gives.. That is factory. The optics are clear and not inverted. The crosshairs are present as well. The vertical circle is 4" Dia. All motions are free, and operable.
This is an interesting and rare transit. With a bit more research, and some luck, you could be the owner of one of the rarest forms of all surveying instruments produced. Think about that, a solar transit with the serial # 52 and the #1, solar that maker made. This transit would be a fine addition to any collection of surveying instruments. Opportunity Knocks.
Good + . . . . . .$1750.00 SOLD!
William
Ainsworth & Sons of Denver Colorado Mining Transit
This is a very small and light transit whose overall condition is very
nice. The original bronzed lacquer finish is in super condition. The
exposed brass has developed a nice even patina. It has a 3 1/2" needle
and is either an expedition or explore model given the small size. The
transit has threaded axle ends to allow for a secondary auxiliary scope
or solar attachment and counterweight. Neither is present. The idea for
a second scope is to allow the user to shoot angles that would otherwise
be impossible because of the plate being in the way such as at very
steep angles, or straight down.The main scope is just over 8" long. The serial # is 2658. William Ainsworth was an English immigrant who first opened his door for the making of surveying instruments in Denver in the 1880's. In 1905 he added Sons to the name, so we can assume this transit dates from near that date. Ainsworth is most famous for their production of the Brunton pocket compass which is still produced today. In the day they were a well known and respected regional maker of surveying instruments, scales, and watches.
The tripod mount is only 2 1/4" I have a Ainsworth tripod that is almost miniature with a 2 7/8 ring that is smaller than a Gurley explorer or expedition size tripod. Imagine how small and light the tripod for this would be with a 2 1/4" ring. All level vials are all good and all motions are free. The optics are good, and the crosshairs are visible. They are the finest that I have ever seen. All in all a pretty rare instrument that will not turn up often and will make for a great display in the mining collection, or the surveying instrument collection.
Good+ . . . . . . .$850.00 SOLD!
William
Stackpole Surveyors / Engineers Transit This surveyor's transit
is in good condition. Stackpole & Brother was a relatively early New York surveying
instrument maker and began operations in the mid 1800's. The box as
shown in the pics is pretty nice as well. The bubbles are all good.
The compass is nice and the needle swings freely. The company name and location
are on the compass face under the glass and pictured below. The optics are
clear, and the crosshairs (3h & 1v) are good. Stackpole produced a quality
product and this transit is no exception. Note the positioning of the tangent lock.
The green lacquer finish is 90% or better and looks great Those areas
that were not lacquered have a nice even patina.The Smithsonian site has a bio on the brothers who formed the company, and they have several of their instruments in their collection.
See below for some of the info from the Smithsonian site.
Good+ . . . . . . .$850.00 SOLD!
Fauth & Co. Expedition Size Transit
This Fauth & Co. of Washington DC expedition size transit is a rare and unusual
surveying instrument.This company was formed in the 1870's between George Saegmuller and
his two brothers in law, Camille Fauth and Henry Lockwood. The transit is marked with the Fauth
& Co. as well as the Washington DC location under the glass on the
compass face. The serial #50 is also found under the glass. If I am reading right at the Smithsonian site
George Saegmuller was a partner in the firm at this time and applied serial
#'s to the instruments only after 1887. The company disbanded in 1905
and I assume this dates from near 1887 with so low a #. The transit has an 7" scope and would be designated as a Expedition model. Be sure to see the leather case that the wooden box slips into. Being an expedition size the makers tried to keep everything as small and compact as possible to be lighter and easier to transport in the field. The box for the transit is a study in compactness. The leather field case has done a fine job protecting the mahogany box. The mahogany box for the transit shows just a few minor scuffs from storage. The leather covering is in fine condition as well with minor losses to the stitching and the straps missing.
All motions are free and turn as they should. The optics are perfect and exhibit no cloudiness or other problems. The image is inverted, and I do not see any crosshairs. The 3" compass needle swings freely and goes to north. There are 3 different eyepieces, one of them being a right angle. The tripod size looks to be 2.75 x 13.
This small interesting instrument represents an opportunity that will not likely present itself again for a long time. Highly recommended!!
Fine . . . . . .$1050.00 SOLD!!
Mahn
& Co. St. Louis Mo. #3 Light Mountain Transit This small surveying
transit
is by a little known regional Midwest maker from St Louis MO. Herman Mahn's working dates
were from 1891 -1906.
It is in excellent overall condition.I found an online catalog for this company and I believe they refer to this as their #3 Light Mountain transit. The mahogany box spent most of its life inside the outer leather case seen in pic 6009 and the finishes on it are near perfect. The leather case does have a tear in it. The scope is 8.5" long the image erect and crosshairs are present. The optics are crisp and clear. All of the level vials are full and appear to be original. It has a 4" vertical circle.
This transit came with a marked collapsible leg Gurley tripod that looks to be their explorer / expdition size with a XXX size mount. The legs are their early square-ish design with double lock screws and brass fittings. It is in fine condition and the transit fits it properly. I will sell it separately for $225.00 if you need it for something else.
A small good looking compact instrument that will be a welcome addition to any display or collection.
Fine . . . . . . 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!!
Bausch & Lomb Light Mountain Transit Bausch and Lomb had been in business for many years and were well known in the optics business before they went into a business partnership with, first, George Saegmuller in 1905, and then Carl Zeiss in 1907 at which point they also began to produce Surveying instruments, transits and other engineering instruments. They only manufactured surveying instruments up until the entry of the United States into the First World War in about 1917 when production stopped. After the war, production of these sorts lines was never resumed. It seems there was better money making things for the military and that became their primary focus.
Everything on this small transit seems to be working nicely, and the optics are clear. It has developed a nice rich even patina. I believe this transit was made in 1908 from the chart that gives that information that I was able to find on the internet. Given the short production span, and the limited number produced, instruments by these folks are pretty hard to come by. This includes the proper and original collapsible tripod as well.
Top Notch!!
Good . . . . .$950.00 SOLD
Bostrom #4 Transit / Level This small combination Transit / Level is in good condition. It is a precision but simple instrument that was offered for general layouts and lines by large concerns like Sears, Montgomery Wards or other outfits that sold surveying instruments for general use. This style of surveying instrument are sometimes referred to as Farm levels This one is unmarked as to maker but is a Bostrom. I would estimate it dates from the 40's or so. As can be seen half of the box is present. There is no tripod. It will make for a good general user, or a nice display piece on the shelf.
Good . . . . .$95.00 SOLD
Antique & Collectible
Japanese Surveying Transits
The
Japanese
WWII Era TOKO Theodolite / Transit
Marked on scope with name and power info. It is in good overall condition. Crisp optics,
crosshairs present. Good bubbles. All
motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 10" long. The box is solid
with Japanese writing on it. Some empty spots on
the sliding base for small accessories. Auxiliary compass sets on top. Nice!! Good + . . . . . $295.00 SOLD!!
Japanese
WWII TOKO 10 x 5 Transit / Theodolite This is a
well made nice condition surveying instrument that looks to have seen little use before being carried home
after WWII by a returning serviceman.
The drab green finish is near perfect. The optics are crisp and clear. The rubber eyepiece did not survive and just a piece of it remains. Everything else seems to be in order. Motions and screws are a bit tight after sitting idle for 80 some years. It has not been tested or had anything done to it in all that time. The wood case is solid. It will display nicely!!
Good + . . . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!
Antique & Collectible
European Surveying Transits
The
Breithaupt & Sohn Cassel Theodolite
This small transit / theodolite was manufactured in approx. 1898 by F. W. Breithaupt & Sohn,
in Cassel, Germany (today's 'Kassel'). The scope is 8 1/4" long. The total height is 12". The magnetic
compass is 3" diameter, with a 360 degree silver ring. The needle is 2" long. It seems complete, including the
double vernier vertical circle w/ magnifiers. Bubble levels are good. It has a
three leg leveling head and beveled limb or plate. A beautiful instrument that will display well. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $675.00 SOLD!!
Negretti & Zambra Transit /
Theodolite
Negretti & Zambra was an English outfit whose origins dates back
into the mid 19th century. This transit / theodolite has an interesting form
with its half circle beneath the scope.
The leather covered mahogany box looks really nice. The box still has nearly all of its original finish. This instrument was dropped or handled badly at one point, as I had to re-glue nearly all of the different pieces inside, and repair a crack in the top where the base was trying to break through as it was banged around. It looks great now. The theodolite breaks down, and the different parts are fitted throughout the box as can be seen in the last photos. There is a bit of damage to two pieces from when it was shipped. The small aux magnifier lens, for the vernier, is cracked. Also a piece of the spring loaded fine adjust beneath the plate broke off at its attachment point when this was banging around in the box. The rest is fine, looks great and will display well..
The crosshairs are present, and the image is inverted. There is a stamp on the side of the scope indicating that this was made for a firm in Lima Peru. The serial number is in the 2000 range, but I could find no info that would allow for dating it. It has a 3 point leveling system, and it has the tripod mounting plate which is set up to fit in the box and has a quick release feature. an interesting design that will look fine as part of the display.
Good+ . . . . . .$650.00 SOLD!
Hildebrand Freiberg Surveyors / Engineers Theodolite / Transit This precision Theodolite is by
Hildebrand Freiberg a well know and respected optical instrument maker that was begun in the 18th
century in Germany as Freiberg and evolved and changed names over a period of time to what it is now.
You can visit their present website here.The name Hildebrand became associated with the company in 1872 and Hildebrand Freiberg company was in operation until the Russians took control of the plant at the end of WWII. The only place this precision instrument is marked
with the company name is on the handle of the case. There is also a stylized logo &
number on the instrument itself which probably would help date it for those with access to that info. This instrument dates from somewhere near the turn of the century up to the time of WWII when the Russians took over the plant. It is interesting to note the Japanese writing on the outside of the case and the "military" colored tan finish of the tripod would lead one to believe it was sold to and used by the Japanese military prior to or during WWII. The instrument itself is in great condition and is as complete as one could imagine or hope for. All of the level bubbles are good. All of the fitted holes in the internal carry case / tray are full and this instrument was designed to be locked into the case on the base to withstand all sorts of travel bumps and abuse. All of the tiny magnifiers over the vernier scales are present.
There is a striding level, an auxiliary compass, plumb bob, counterweight, and even a small wind up tape in feet / metric with Japanese writing. The tripod is nice, proper, and the instrument has the proper 3 point leveling base for it. There are also additional parts and pieces stored on the door, like an extra eyepiece, sunshade, and right angle eyepiece. The optics are clear and the cross hairs present. It is a very nice looking and graphic instrument to add to several different focus collections.
Good+ . . . . . .$750.00 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!!
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!!
European
Brass Theodolite / Transit
w/ Beveled Limb and Magnifiers An
interesting looking Surveying Theodolite / Transit in nice cosmetic condition. It is unmarked as to maker but has an
European look and features. It came from a fellow who mostly collected microscopes. His son told us this had been
on the dining room table since the 1970s.
There is no box or case. Most of the motions are stiff from 50 years of dust having settled in. The cross hairs are present, and consist of an X with several vertical and horizontal lines. The optics are OK. The different level bubbles are good. The small magnifiers are good, and needed to read the scales they are so fine. It has a beveled silver limb typical of European instruments but was also offered on a rare Buff & Berger.
There are a couple empty screw holes on the scope. The mount at the base looks to be a quick mount feature where a 1/4 turn would lock it to the tripod once in place. A nice display piece.
Good +. . . . . 400.00 SOLD!!
Eagle
Brand Transit This transit was sold as surplus from
a college
that either discontinued their engineering program or upgraded to more
modern instruments. It dates from the early 60's. There is a pic
of the information tag on the door that gives all the specs. It is a
well made precision instrument. The overall condition is nice and it appears
to have led an easy life spending most of its time on the shelf and not in
the field. The optics are clear, and the crosshairs present. The
compass is operational. All
other motions are free and I see no issues. It takes a 3 1/2 x 8 tripod, and
I have several designed for this instrument listed for sale on another page
at this site. It
will make a great user for the general contractor or casual user.
Good + . . . . .$250.00 SOLD!!
Fennel / Kassel Builders Transit / Level This is a quality transit / level made by the well
known German firm Fennel / Kassel. The box is marked West Germany which would date this as post WWII.
It looks a lot like the David White Builders transit I use to use for general layout, corners, and grades.
This instrument is set up much the same with a positive lock for the level / grade function, and
just one level vial below the scope to set up. Everything about the transit is nice, and
I believe it is ready to go back to work. The box needs a new clap / latch, but is otherwise OK.
It takes a standard 3 1/2 x 8 tripod.
Good . . . . .$150.00 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!!
Kern
Aarau DKM2 Theodolite / Transit Top of the line Swiss optical surveying instrument in its day. Looks good. Crisp optics.
Good crosshairs, bubbles, mirrors, etc. Everything seems to be functioning correctly and right. Good + . . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!
Wild Heerbrugg T 16 Theodolite
w/ Top Mount Auxiliary Compass This top of the line Swiss made
theodolite was made for the US Military. It looks to have spent most of its life sitting on a shelf in some warehouse before being sold as surplus or
otherwise disposed of. The serial # is 119904. There are more numbers that probably date it and mean something to someone.
(see pics) I am guessing it dates from the 1970s.
The horizontal limb graduation or scale is not the typical 360 degrees one would expect, but rather 640 / to the full circle. I have been told this is Milliradians. Further explanations or comments on this from me are above my pay grade.
The Green finish is near perfect. The optics are crisp and clear. All sorts of crosshairs are visible. Everything seems to be working and in order. It has not been tested or used. The outer bullet case has a couple superficial dents, but is otherwise very nice and speaks to the light use, if any at all, this saw in the field.
The auxiliary compass is also listed separately in the ad below. It is shown in the first few pics of this ad. It fits, and is included in the price.
An interesting instrument that will display very nicely. Nice!!
Fine . . . . . . $695.00 SOLD!!
Leica TCA 1800 - Total Station w/ Case
Looks good. Untested. Pics tell most of the story. Please look at all the pics to see the details and condition. What you see
is what you get. Bid it to own it!!
This instrument is somewhat newer than what we typically deal in, and I know
little about this era instrument.This c. 1990s vintage surveying instrument and related contemporary survey instruments I am currently selling came from a local northern CA. Engineering outfit started in the 1940s. They are still listed in the area, and have moved up, or moved on.
Good . . . . . . $1850.00 SOLD!!
WILD T1000
"THEOMAT" - Theodolite w/ Case Untested.
Includes two instruction booklets. Top of hard case is cracked. The
instrument looks OK.This c. 1980s - 1990s vintage Swiss made surveying instrument and related contemporary survey instruments I am currently selling came from a local northern CA. Engineering outfit started in the 1940s. They are still listed in the area, and have moved up, or moved on.
Good - . . . . . . $140.00 SOLD!!
Antique & Collectible
Surveying Levels
The
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser Dumpy Level
This K & E Dumpy is in very good overall condition.
It looks to have seen little use. The serial # is 125338 which
according to the dating chart available online dates make it
from the end of 1952.The optics are good, crosshairs present. Black crinkle finish is 95% or better. The box is present and nice as well. A nice user or display piece.
Fine . . . . . . $150.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser 12" Wye Level
This
small K & E wye level is in very nice condition. The serial # of 15517
would date it from 1908 according to the dating chart found online. Its
matte green lacquer finish is very nice. No issues, no apologies. A Genuine and nice display piece. Fine . . . . . . . $195.00 SOLD!!
Sala
Precise Engineer's Level J. C. Sala was
a San Francisco based California instrument maker who worked for and took over
John Roaches business after he died. This level looks to be a specialty
precision level with a very sensitive precise level vial mounted atop the scope. A
typical Dumpy levels vial would not be as sensitive and was typically
mounted beneath the scope. Good optics, crosshairs are present, and
the finishes have appropriate wear. A bit different and unusual. A
nice display piece. Good + . . . . . . . $175.00 SOLD!!
C.
F. Richardson Survey Level Scope w/ Extra Level, Tripod & Box
An unusual piece by a relatively obscure level and tool maker that was
ultimately bought out by Goodell Pratt and Starrett. It is in very nice condition
and dates from the late 1800s. The box is original and OK. There are two of the special design 10" levels w/ cast in mounting points, and one 12" nickel plated scope that attaches to the top. The levels and scope are in fine condition. It will make for a nice display piece in a number of settings or would be perfect for re-enactments or things of that sort!! Graphic & Nice!!
TX-R-LVL-BOX
Good + . . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
Badger
Convertible Transit / Level I am
not sure who made this as I do not recognize the Badger name. The
style might tell somebody better versed. The idea with this design
level / transit is that one could release the scope from its level position,
and turn it 90 degrees and lock the scope back in place as a limited form
transit. A limited transit in that it could only shoot about 10 - 20 degrees up or down
from level.
Good + . . . . . . $175.00 SOLD!!
Small Staff Level in Wooden Box
Level is unmarked. Label in box has info that indicates it is Danish.. The level bubble is good.
It is brought into focus by pulling the tube out.
Interesting.Good + . . . . . . . $75.00 SOLD!!
Starrett
101 C Surveying Level Lightly
used. No legs or box. A nice condition display piece. Fine . . . . . $40.00 SOLD!!
Stackpole & Brother Wye Level in Box
A large & graphic instrument by Stackpole & Brother a well known mid
19th century New York maker. Note that it is stored in the box as two
pieces. The scope is 18" long. This typically is referred to as
a Railroad or Wye level, either term is correct. It has not been
polished and has a heavy patina that goes with the age. The box shows
considerable wear and is still solid. The crosshairs are present, and
the optics are OK. It has not been calibrated or tested for use. Big &
Graphic. It will make for a nice display in a number of settings!! Good + . . . . . . $375.00 SOLD!
C.
L. Berger & Sons 18" Wye Level The
serial # of 20761 would date it from the early 1930's. The previous
collector bought it in the 1980's for over $300.00. Everything works and the optics are crisp and clear.
It will make for a fine general purpose user or nice display piece. Fine . . . . . . . $95.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel
& Esser / K & E 5110 Engineers 18" Wye Level
A nice Engineer's wye level by Keuffel & Esser one of the premier
makers of surveying instruments in America. It is in very nice condition and the black finish is
near perfect. Crosshairs present, optics good. Good bubble. All
motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 18" long.
No box.
I do have tripods that will fit this instrument on the tripod page.
Very Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $55.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel
& Esser / K & E 12" Wye Level in Box
A nice looking smaller wye level by Keuffel & Esser one of the premier
surveying instruments makers in America. The serial # of 1403 would
date this from pre 1900. It is in very nice un-cleaned condition and has
developed a nice even patina. Crosshairs present, optics good. The
scope is approx. 11" long. It will make for a nice display in a number of settings or would be
perfect for re-enactments or things of that sort!! Nice!! Fine . . . . . . $150.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel
& Esser / K & E 5110 Engineers Wye Level in Box
A nice large Engineer's wye level by Keuffel & Esser one of the premier
makers of surveying instruments in America. The serial # of 36693 would
date this from 1918. It is in very nice condition and the black finish is
near perfect. Crosshairs present, optics good. Good bubble. All
motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 18" long. The magnification is 32 power
for long range shots.The box is solid and does show the age. I
believe it would be a great user given the condition or it will make for a nice display in a number of settings!!
I do have tripods that will fit this instrument on the tripod page.
Very Nice!!
Fine . . . . . . $195.00 SOLD!!
Keystone
Blue Paper Co. Wye Level in Box A nice looking and good condition instrument in its original box sold by Keystone Blue Paper Co. of Philadelphia
PA. The serial # is 9739. It is stamped with the name and number on the side of the base. From the look of it I would think it
dates from near the turn of the century and certainly pre WWII. It has not been over cleaned and has
developed a nice even patina. Crosshairs present, optics good. The scope is approx. 11" long. It will make for a nice display in a number of settings or would be
perfect for re-enactments or things of that sort!! Nice!!
Fine . . . . . . $95.00 SOLD!!
T. Whaley / New York Wye Level in Box
A nice looking
wye level in its original box. It is stamped with the name and location on
the base below the scope. From the look of it I would think it
dates from the mid to late 1800s. Crosshairs present, optics OK. T
Whaley is not a listed maker in Smarts, nor is there much info to be found
using Google although I did find one ad from the 1870s. The scope is approx. 16" long. It will make for a nice display in a number of settings or would be
perfect for re-enactments or things of that sort!! Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $175.00 SOLD!
A
Lietz Co. Serial #291 Aluminum Precision Level This
is a pretty unusual surveying instrument in the scheme of things. With a serial
# of 291 we can assume this level was made in the first couple years of Lietz
beginning operations in San Francisco in the 1890's. Their use of
Aluminum for almost all of the instrument is very unusual for something this
early. The finish on the body of the scope is a brown crinkle that has an almost cloth like look and feel to it. The bottom tripod mounting plate and leveling head are the only parts made of brass save a few tightening screws. The tripod mount has Lietz's patented twist lock mounting feature. The entire instrument weighs less than 5 lbs. The main level is mounted on the top of the scope and there is a long folding mirror to aid the user in viewing both the level and through the scope at the same time. The box is nice with some minor rubs. There are 3 labels inside the top.
All in all a nice example of an early Lietz surveying instrument. It will display very nicely and has a great graphic look to it.
Fine . . . . . . $695.00 SOLD!
T.
Street Maker Commercial Road Lambeth English Surveyor's Precise Level w/ Compass This
c. 1900
English surveying instrument seems to be in nice condition. All
motions are free, and the compass works. The maker info is on
the side and hard to decipher given the script style. I believe it is
T. Street. The location is easier to make out and there are numerous
internet references to that location. The compass works, and
there is a magnifier to help read the vernier. There is also a clip on
mirror to see the level when in use. The optics are clear.
A nice looking instrument that will display nicely!! Good +. . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!
Bradshaw's
Patent Sighting Level
This sighting level is in super original
condition. Although the idea of using a wooden level as a sight level
is well known I have never seen this maker and set-up before, and a Google search
did not turn up anything on the inventor / patentee, Bradshaw, and just a few
entries on the English maker Harling of London. The level and the worm
drive adjuster are in near mint condition and still sport most of the original
finish. The cloth over board carrying case is nice as well. The
tripod is an odd offset affair and it has a tapered post at the top to receive
the level. This will display nicely, and is quite showy in its own right.
Good . . . . . $695.00 SOLD
12" Beckman
Wye Level
Not a bad looking instrument, but his wye level is for decoration only.
There are no crosshairs and the optics are cloudy. A nice display piece.
Fair . . . . . . . $40.00 SOLD!
Stackpole
& Brother Wye Level
This early level is in nice condition. This was a New York firm that was
in operation as this partnership during the 1850's It has seen use,
but still looks good and will display very nicely. Nice!!
Good . . . . . $795.00 SOLD
Berger Wye Level
This Wye level is in nice condition. It has seen use,
but still looks good and will display nicely.
Good . . . . . $195.00 SOLD
Keuffel
& Esser 11" Scope Architect's Level / Convertible Transit
This well made and interesting instrument
is by one of the best know and trusted names in this field. The instrument
itself is in excellent condition and the optics are clear. These levels
were designed to be used by builders and architects and were a versatile and
popular tool in their day. The tattered instructions are dated 1923, and
give just the basic idea on how to adjust and set up the instrument. The
idea with this style of instrument was that in addition to being a standard
level, you could take it out of the base, attach the auxiliary post arms near
the middle and then reinserted back into the base and could be used as a transit
as well. Also included is an aux. triangular plate for use setting this
up on a table or off of the tripod which is not included. The tripod would
have an 1 3/8 Dia threaded hole. These good looking tools make for an
affordable display piece for the budding collector or an interesting addition
in the decorators scheme for the workingman's / builder's /architect's leisure
room.
Good . . . . . $395.00 SOLD
Keuffel
& Esser # 5120 Engineers Railroad Y Level
This is a very nice condition instrument.
Note that the base and scope are stored in the box as separate pieces.
The scope measures 20" and the optics are clear and bright. The finish,
a green bronze lacquer is 95% or better, and looks great as well. These
earlier instruments without the heavy coats of crinkle black or green finish
are so much nicer to display and look at, and this one is no exception.
This Y level has seen little use in the field and shows little sign of use and
has not been abused in any way. Also included is a very nice stiff
leg tripod that is properly marked K & E.
Good . . . . . $395.00 SOLD
Aloe
Convertible Level / Transit This small
builders level / transit is in good condition. Aloe was a St Louis MO
maker. The optics are OK and the crosshairs are present. I
would estimate it dates from before WWII. It is set up so that the scope can be removed and then set
back in 90 degrees from what you see and it could then be used as a rough
transit as well. Hence the name convertible to describe this style
instrument. It will make a good user, or look great as part of the
display.
Good + . . . . . . . $195.00 SOLD!
Leitz
Convertible Level / Transit This small
builders level / transit is in good condition. The red finish is
original and proper. The optics are bright and clear. The crosshairs
present. I would estimate it dates from before WWII. It is a
precision built instrument that will be a great user for layouts, lines,
and corners or serve as a nice example of a simple instrument from the
little known west coast maker A. Lietz.. It is set up so that the scope
can be removed and then set back in 90 degrees from what you see and it could then be used as a rough
transit as well. Hence the name convertible to describe this style
instrument. It will make a good user, or look great as part of the
display. The stiff legged tripod is included in the price
as well.
Good + . . . . . . .$250.00 SOLD!
English
Surveying Wye Level in Box Unmarked as to maker.
Buffed, polished and ready to display. It is real, as in not fake and
from India, Pakistan, or elsewhere. Ebay has those.
Looks English, and probably by Stanley / London. The collector has a note that says it is just like another he saw published in a book he had by Turner. I do not have that book. I did find an identical one on the online site Charish for $1450.00 or about 7 times as much. Must be a really special crowd that shops there. Nice!!
Fine . . . . . . $175.00
Buff
Engineers 20" Y or Wye Level
This instrument has seen a lot of careful use. It is completely functional
and was carefully used during its years of service here in the Gold Rush country
of California. It dates from the first quarter of the last century it
looks like to me. It has a nice patina and will display well in
the den or office or in any room with a Western Theme as this style of instrument
or level was primarily used to lay out railroads, roads or long survey lines
in the field.
Good . . . . . $295.00 SOLD
Buff & Berger Precise Level
This is a very graphic and unusual instrument.
The form has been around since the late 1800's and was developed for the US
Coast and Geodedic Survey. There is a lot of information on this form
of instrument at the Smithsonian site whose link is below. They have several
similar instruments by other makes on display in their virtual museum found
there. It is designed for very precise work, and hence the name. The dial
at the bottom is a micro adjust for the altitude and the bar across the top
is a mirror so that the person using the instrument could view the bubble below
at the same time he was viewing through the scope. It takes a special
tripod to accommodate the three point leveling base.
Good . . . . . $1795.00 SOLD
Here is the link to the Smithsonian site. It goes to one of the similar instruments they have in their collection. From there you can go to others, either by type or by maker. If you have the time you can spend hours there as it is very extensive and informative.
http://americanhistory2.si.edu/surveying/maker.cfm
Wild
Heerbrug N-2 Automatic Level
This instrument was top of the line and cutting edge in
its day.. The Swiss maker
Wild / Heerbrugg produced some of the best known and widely respected
optical surveying instruments ever offered. This level dates from the 60's and saw little use in
the field. It was purchased during a time of changing technologies and
priorities and spent most of its life sitting on a shelf rather than being
used on the job. The serial # is 90887. The optics
are crystal clear, and all motions are operable and seem right.
The image is inverted. The previous owner did
scratch their name into the base with an electric pen. It is not
distracting. There are no other issues or problems A nice
piece for use or the collection.
Fine . . . . . $325.00 SOLD!!
Zeiss / Jena NI 007 Precise Automatic Level
The serial # is 480137. This unusual instrument looks to be virtually unused. It includes the wooden box, original instructions in English, a plastic cover, sunshade, and some small tools stored inside. I believe it dates from the late 60's / 70's. It is fully operational and all motions are free and move smoothly. Note the lack of any wear to any aspect in the many pics. The 32 power optics are incredibly clear and sharp. Crosshairs are present, image is erect, level bubble full etc. You can see the micrometer and degree scales in the viewers. This unusual surveying instrument spent most of its life sitting on a shelf rather than in the field, The original buyer upgraded to more modern total station instruments shortly after buying it and it has sat virtually unused for 50 some years. A nice
piece for use or the collection.
Fine . . . . . $695.00 SOLD!!
Wild Heerbrugg / Leica NA2 Universal Precision Level W/ Case
This Wild Heerbrugg Leica NA2 Universal Precision Level is in good overall used condition. It was well kept.
Good optics. This c. 1990s vintage surveying instrument and related contemporary survey instruments I am currently selling came from a local northern CA. Engineering outfit started in the 1940s. They are still listed in the area, and have moved up, or moved on.
Good + . . . . . . $450.00 SOLD!!
Gurley
Dumpy Level
This 1960's era level came from a surplus sale and saw little use in the
engineering program it was originally bought for. Nice condition noting the
electric pen ID marks.
Fine . . . . . $195.00 SOLD!!
Gordon Roberts Compascope Scope
Surveying Level w/ Compass
This instrument was marketed by Abercrombie & Fitch. The compass face of
this unusual surveying instrument / level is a floating disc that has most
of the info on it. An interesting design instrument with the unusual added feature of a tiny flashlight like device to light it up for use on a "dull day or nightime" according to the instruction sheet. Complete with instructions and wooden box. Also included is the ebay write-up from 1999 when the collector first bought it.
Good + . . . . . . $75.00 SOLD!!
AGATEC - GAT 220 HV
Laser Level
This rotary laser level looks to have seen little if any use. It works and
the instruction booklet is included. I installed new batteries and both units light up, and the laser head spins.
The main laser unit uses two readily available D cells and the accessory piece / rod target / receiver uses a standard 9 volt battery. So no special or hard to find battery packs are needed.
There is also a rechargeable battery pack (not shown) and a AC / DC charger / aux. power source that plugs directly into it. The battery pack took a charge and is operational.
In looking around it looks like these use to retail for over 1.3K and some could be had for $700 or so before disappearing from the market. The France based company is still around selling different models.
Fine . . . . . $250.00 SOLD!!
18th & Early 19th Century
Surveying Compasses
The
Benjamin
Rittenhouse Surveying Compass w/ Box
Benjamin Rittenhouse was the brother of David Rittenhouse, documented
instrument maker to such famous Americans as George Washington, Benjamin Franklin, and
other notable colonial figures. He worked for the Colonials during the
Revolution making gun locks.
There are numerous bios and articles to be found online about the Rittenhouse family and the instruments they made. There is a detailed history at the SurveyHistory.org site. The Smithsonian site also has info, and several examples in their collection. Their write-up states Benjamin Rittenhouse was the most prolific compass maker of the 18th century and that approx. 3 dozen of his instruments are known. In his later years he went into partnership with several other people and so his pieces can be dated by how they are signed. Examples bearing just his name being the earliest and dating from the 18th century. The decoration and engraving on this example are scant compared to some of his other works. I am not sure if that indicates it is an earlier piece or not.
The compass measures approx. 15 inches long and has a 5 inch blued needle. It is in what appears to be the original box and includes the knuckle joint. There is a compass cover piece as well. There is one good level vial, and a vernier which is operable. A great looking early 19th century surveying instrument of historical importance.
Good + . . . . . . $8750.00 SOLD!!
Lewis
Michael 18th Century Surveying Compass This
early Lewis Michael surveying compass is a piece of 18th Century Americana with
historical importance. The compass is in fine untouched original condition and
includes its original hump back wooden case. Lewis Michael
was an 18th Century
maker of Surveying Instruments, clocks, and related accessories who hailed first
from Pennsylvania, and later moved to Ohio. Lewis Michael was born about 1765
and his working dates are from
approx. 1785 to the 1830's. There are just a handful of Lewis Michael surveying
instruments or compasses known. Lewis Michael is not listed in Smart's book, "The Makers of Surveying Instruments in America Since 1700". Nor is he included in the book about the collection Smart curated for Gurley.The Smithsonian does not have an example in their collection either. There are two example shown at the SuveyHistory.org site in the compass directory found
there. There is a short bio on Lewis Michael at
that site as well. One of those compasses is marked "Somerset",
as is this example, and the other
"York", both of which are in PA. Note that this compass lists off
the PA location while those examples do not. Both of those compasses have other subtle differences
from this example. I also found two articles online that make mention of and
picture Lewis compasses. It is not known if those are the same two
compasses that are pictured at the SurveyHistory.org site.One article was written by Silvio A. Bedini, who worked for the Smithsonian and is a well known authority on early Colonial Era Surveying Instruments. The article is titled "Benjamin Rittenhouse and His Apprentices and Partners." That article gives a good bit of history about Lewis Michael and Benjamin Rittenhouse. Benjamin Rittenhouse was a famous 18th century maker of surveying instruments and clocks. He learned the trade from his brother David Rittenhouse, who it is said made scientific instruments for George Washington and worked for other well known early American figures including Jefferson and Franklin. Bedini states that Lewis Michael was Benjamin Rittenhouse's earliest apprentice and began working for Benjamin Rittenhouse in 1779 when he was about 14 years old. The article goes on to document his activities in PA through the years using tax records and directory entries. Lewis moved to Ohio in the 1830's and in an ad announcing that move he claimed he had learned the trade from Benjamin Rittenhouse. Lewis also advertised that he was a clock maker among other things. I could find no mention of, or examples of Lewis Michael clocks online.
The second article was written by Jeffery Lock, who operates the website Colonialinstruments.com. The title of the article is "The Art of Brass Colonial Surveying Instruments". It can be found online. In that article he tells of buying a Lewis Michael compass because of the beauty of the engraving and level of craftsmanship the compass exhibited. He explains that only later did he learn about the maker and come to recognize Lewis Michael's importance, describing him as one of the "foremost instrument makers of the Colonial period". Lock goes on to say "His instruments are extremely desirable and very hard to find on the open market."
The compass plate is 14" long and the compass itself is approx. 6" diameter, with a 5 1/4" long original needle. The compass face is silvered and nice. The engraving work is superb and highly detailed. The engraving has a large and very complex 8-point rose with wonderful details and complexities in its design and execution. The four main points have smaller inside points with the borders between them heavily engraved in decorative 18th century style. This compass is a work of art that is equal if not superior to the work of other instrument makers like the Rittenhouse brothers or Goldsmith Chandlee of Virginia. The bubble under the glass is good and original. The sight vanes are nice and the screws for them are original. The compass has a built-in dial / outkeeper numbered 0 - 16 which is functional. There are several empty screw holes on the underside. It is interesting to note that every screw on the bottom is punch pricked with dots so as to number them for their holes.The blued needle swings to North, and the needle lifter works. The hump backed box with its precisely fitted cutouts and unique design is original and made of an unknown dark colored softwood.
This Michael Lewis compass and the box are both incredible pieces of early American craftsmanship and workmanship. This Michael Lewis colonial era surveying instrument represents a rare opportunity to own a piece of historical Americana that may never present itself again. Highly recommended!!
Fine . . . . .
Thomas
Whitney Surveying Compass
The Compass Directory site puts Thomas
Whitney's working dates at
from 1798 to 1823. He was based in Philadelphia PA.
Whitney was a prolific early maker with an interesting history including
the fact that he made instruments for the Lewis & Clark
expedition.William Young apprenticed to him for 7 years before
becoming famous in his own right.The
serial number on this compass is 381.
It is listed in the data base of known instruments he made, and it is dated
as from 1818 in that info. No box. No issues. Good
patina. Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $795.00 SOLD!!
Benjamin Chandlee &
Robert Holloway / Baltimore Surveying Compass
Surveying instruments bearing the name Chandlee are considered one of the
most desirable, rare, and interesting of all Colonial era American
surveying instruments. The tradition was begun by Goldsmith
Chandlee, maker of instruments for the likes of George Washington, Thomas
Jefferson, Benjamin Franklin and other notable American figures. Benjamin Chandlee III was Goldsmith Chandlee's
son, and continued the tradition of making surveying instruments started by his father. There are numerous Bios and other references to the Chandlee family and the instruments they made available online. There is a detailed history on Goldsmith Chandlee by Elgin to be found at the SurveyHistory.org site, and a shorter one by Smart on Benjamin Chandlee at the same site. Benjamin Chandlee was born in 1780 and died in 1822. His working dates in Baltimore are from 1814 up to the time of his death. He was in partnership with Holloway from 1819 until his death in 1822, thus dating this compass from that period. Online research indicates that this is but one of 1/2 dozen or so compasses made by this partnership known to exist
The compass measures approx. 15 inches long and has a 5 inch blued needle.It is in original untouched condition with a great patina. There is a hairline crack in one sight vane. It is stable and there is no movement. The needle swings to north and the lock operates. There is a functioning double tally keeper built into the compass face under the glass. The silvered compass face is nicely engraved with a great looking Fleur de Lis at the north point. The name Chandlee & Holloway with the Baltimore location are at the bottom of the compass face. A great looking early 19th century surveying instrument of historical importance.
Fine . . . . . . $5950.00 SOLD!!
Anthony Lamb New York Surveyor Compass Beautifully
engraved.
Anthony Lamb is considered New Yorks earliest instrument maker and examples
of his work are rare. He set up shop in New York in the 1730's after coming
to the US from England.There is a nice Bio on him at the Smithsonian and another at the Compass Makers site. There is even a more in depth one on a site describing great collectibles that have come to market over the years. That article can be found at this link http://www.greatestcollectibles.com/compass-online-price/#.WyPFqkgvxPY
Note how the sight vanes are a dovetail fit. Both have early and nicely done repairs that adds character and attest to it authenticity. Lambs name is engraved on the right arm. Note also the Rams horn thumbscrews on the underside. Very early, rare and Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $6950.00 SOLD!!
William Young
Surveyor / Surveying Compass William
Young was an early well known Pennsylvania instrument maker. This compass is a
pretty nice example with a nice even unpolished patina. It is a pre
Civil War era piece dating from the 1850s. The serial number
found on the compass face is 3318.There is no box.The one apology is the
circular level vial is
dry. Some of the pics show it w/o the glass or needle as there was
a lot of glare w/ them in place. A nice display piece. Good . . . . . . . $595.00 SOLD!!
French
Surveying Compass These small compasses date
from around the turn of the century. American instrument makers and
survey supply distributers
as well as large regional retailers imported them as a second line for
casual users / buyers. This has the knuckle joint.No box.
It either fell or was hit by something at some point as one of the level
bubbles is broken and the brass housing for it is dented. The needle swings,
but does not seem accurate. Suitable for display only.
Good. . . . $40.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser Survey Compass
Here is an interesting and unusually small and lightweight surveyors compass at just
about 12 inches long.The box has a brass label with a serial #
28958 that matches the # under the glass. That would date this compass from shortly after the turn of
the century. It is in fine overall condition. The compass face is 4" Dia. The plate or arms are cast brass with an turned edge that gives it depth, and added strength as the arms are so thin. The sight vanes fit well and are 4 1/2" tall. The compass needle measures just under 4" swings to north and the lock operates. The level vials are located under the glass and are full. It comes with a nice knuckle joint staff adapter. The box is nice. A nice looking early 20th century surveying instrument that will display nicely.
Good + . . . . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!
S. Browning & Son Boston Survey Compass
Here is a very nice looking and at just over 12 inches a smaller than usual surveyors compass. The compass is in fine overall condition. The box has a label inside the lid that gives
information about what types of instruments Samuel Browning was making at the time.
The list included what he calls off as a Rittenhouse Nonius compasses.
Nonius being another word for vernier. Samuel Browning's'
working dates in Boston span from approx. 1813 to the early 1840s.
After that he spent time in Baltimore until his death in 1864. The compass face is 4" Dia. and the needle approx. 3 1/2" long. The face is very nicely engraved with a floral motif and a large Fleur De Lie at the North Point. Note that the compass mid points are called off and not North, South, East, and West. An interesting variation. The sight vanes fit well and are approx. 5" tall" tall. The compass needle measures swings to north and the lock operates.There are no levels, and I saw an ad for Brownings instruments saying he offered them as such. It comes with a nice knuckle joint staff adapter. The two thumbscrews to hold the sight vanes are the same size and interchangeable with a slightly different look. The box is nice. A nice looking early 20th century surveying instrument that will display nicely.
Fine . . . . . . . $995.00 SOLD!!
William
Stieren Vernier Surveyor's Compass w/ Original Purchase Receipt
William Stieren was a little known Pittsburgh PA instrument maker & dealer of surveying
instruments and other related scientific articles. (see pic of original
receipt ). He is not listed at the Smithsonian site and there is
just a very short bio on him in Smarts book on surveying instrument makers.
Information on the internet about him is scant, but all
is not lost as this survey compass comes with its original receipt dated
1890 with a wealth of further historical info included. It lists Wm. Stieren
primarily as an optician on the receipt but there is so much more.An interesting thing to note is that Stieren died in 1887 when the receipt is dated 1890. The receipt gives us a clue as to how that is possible as it lists two other partners in the firm, also with the name Stieren who continued the business for an unknown amount of time after the founders death. The receipt also gives us the price of the compass at $42.00, and tripod for $8.00. There is the further notation that the buyer was allowed a credit of $23.00 for the instrument he traded in at the time. One can only wonder if that compass was by Rittenhouse, Chandlee or some other 18th century instrument maker.
The compass measures approx. 15 inches long and the compass has a 5 1/2 inch needle.There is just the points, maker and location name engraved on the silvered face. The compass needle swings freely and points north. It has a nicely engraved Fleur d' Lei at the North point The compass face shows no wear or tear and is like new. The body shows little or no wear as well and there is a lot of the original lacquer finish remaining. The crack seen in the glass has been repaired. While both level bubbles are good and look original, one is blue / green, and one clear. There is no box, but does come with the display stand shown. All in all a nice looking and relatively rare surveying instrument by an obscure maker from western PA.
Fine . . . . . . $695.00 SOLD!!
Jacob Blattner Survey Compass Jacob Blattner
worked out of St Louis MO during the mid to late 19th century. He
immigrated here from Switzerland. The compass measures approx. 15 inches
long. The compass needle swings to north and the lock operates.
The 2 level vials are full. The vernier adjuster works and is
controlled by a thumbscrew on the bottom.The sight vanes fit the instrument
well, and are a perfect fit in the box front to back as well. The tiger maple box is an
aftermarket creation. It was nicely done and well thought out. A nice looking
early 19th century surveying instrument that will look nice on display. Good + . . . . . . $595.00 SOLD!!
James
Green Baltimore Maryland Black Face Survey Compass w/ Tripod
James Green compasses are not seen very often. He was born circa 1808
and was first listed in Baltimore directories in the mid 1830's as a
philosophical instrument maker. Smart theorizes Green moved to New
York in 1850 and continued in business there for a number of years. The compass measures approx. 15 inches long and has a 5 1/2 inch needle. The needle swings to north and the lock operates. The center of the silvered compass face is finished in black and it has a nicely engraved Fleur d' Lei at the North point. The level vials are full. The tally keeper which is built into the compass face under the glass works. The box is nice and has a series of lead buttons across the top. I assume so one could stack other boxes on top without damaging the box. The tripod is original and has a great period repair to one leg. All in all a nice looking early 19th century surveying instrument that will look nice on display.
Fine . . . . . . $1100.00 SOLD!!
Reed
Gimbal Mining Compass
A very unusual configuration where the main compass is gimbaled in the frame
so that it can freely swivel to find level in hilly conditions or in mines.
It is numbered 318.
Reed was a mid 19th century maker based in Pittsburg PA is is known for
other mining related pieces. Note also the design of the sight vanes
and how they attach without ever removing the thumbscrew. A neat
idea. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $1750.00 SOLD!!
James
Reed Surveyor's Compass James Reed hailed
from Pittsburg PA and his working dates were from the mid 1800's till his
death in 1878. The silvered compass face is engraved with the company
name and location as well as the serial #328. The box is period, and
fitted for the compass, but larger than one would expect to see with
additional built in compartments including a spring fitted lid in the top
portion. Good + . . . . . . $895.00 SOLD!!
William Young & Sons
Surveying Compass w/ Auxiliary Scope This Young & Sons
Surveying Compass w/ Auxiliary Scope is a wonderfully graphic piece of Early
American Surveying Instrument Technology and Americana
which dates from approx. 1876 and the era of the American
Centennial. The serial # is 4792. It is in overall fine
condition.William Young was one of Americas first well known instrument makers in America. He worked out of Philadelphia and was the first American instrument maker to own a dividing engine, which he designed and built himself. Young is also credited by some to have designed and produced the first American Transit, although that claim is open to discussion. The design of this instrument, a surveyors compass with attached auxiliary scope speaks to the progression of that idea and design.
By the time this instrument was made, Alfred, one of his sons had taken over the company. It was right around this time that they first began marking their instruments Young and Sons. This early and famous firm was located in Philadelphia, producing a quality line of instruments right up until they were acquired by Keuffel and Esser around 1918. Even then K & E continued to offer a separate line of instruments with the Young name so as to maintain that customer base which had been built up over the years.
This compass is approx. 16" long, and the compass face measures 6" with a 5 1/2 inch needle. It operates, points north and the needle lock is operable. The level vials are all full and appear to be original. The tally keeper is functional. The optics of the 7 1/2" rare auxiliary scope are clear and bright. The sight vanes are both present and nice. The box has classic dovetail joints from the period and in general is very nice. In addition to the Young paper label inside the top of the box, there is also some writing in pencil that is hard to make out.
Fine . . . . . . $1995.00 SOLD!!
James
Queen Survey Compass James Queen of
Philadelphia PA was first listed as an optician in
the 1839 Philadelphia Directories. He expanded the business took in a
partner and renamed it
James Queen & Co. This company became a distributer for many scientific and surveying
related products. He had a long relationship with Gurley. The
label inside the lid of the box would date this piece from the early 1890's
or before as the company name changed to Queen & Co. in 1893. The compass measures approx. 15 inches long and has a 5 1/2 inch needle. The needle points north. The silvered face of the compass is in nice condition and it has a nicely engraved Fleur d' Lei at the North point. It has an issue with one sight vane in that the threaded hole to receive the thumb screw is stripped. The other sight vane had the same issue and has an early and ingenious repair that can be mimicked to make this other one OK. A threaded brass sleeve was made and inserted into a new larger drilled hole. It looks fine, and is almost invisible. The level vials are full. The tally keeper works. The box is nice. All in all a nice looking early 19th century surveying instrument that will look nice on display.
Good . . . . . . $500.00 SOLD!!
Andrew
Meneely Vernier Surveying
Compass in Period Box Andrew Meneely is a well
documented instrument maker from West Troy in upstate NY near Albany.
There are numerous bios on him to be found online. He was also well known for the manufacture of
church and school type bells. Andrew Meneely was born in 1802 and died in
1851. He apprenticed to Julius Hanks one of the premier surveying and
scientific instrument makers of the
time. He struck out on his own sometime in the 1820's. In 1849 the
name engraved on his instruments changed when his son joined the company thus
dating this instrument from between those two dates. The condition is very nice. The overall length is approx. 15". The silvered compass face and engraving are very nice. The serial number inscribed on the face is 247 indicating an instrument made during the early years of his working dates. This Meneely compass has a lot more engraving than the example above. The 8 point compass rose is very finely and precisely done. It has a great looking North point Fleur de Lis. Not over done, and yet pleasing with lots to look at. The needle swings freely and points north. It has an out keeper dial numbered 0 - 16. The level vials are both good. The compass has a pleasing overall patina. Same for the sight vanes. The deviation vernier is controlled from below the plate. The box is probably not original, but is period and has a nice look to it.
A very nice looking and historically significant instrument that will look great on display!!
Good + . . . . . $1200.00 SOLD!!
Samuel
Thaxter & Sons Survey Compass
Samuel Thaxter was first listed as an scientific instrument maker / importer
of instruments in
the 1796 Boston Directories. The Directory entries changed to include his
son about 1822. He died in 1842, and so I assume this brass compass
dates from between those dates.The compass measures approx. 15 inches long and has a 5 inch needle. The needle points north. The silvered face of the compass is in very nice condition, and it has a nicely engraved Fleur d' Lei at the North point. There is additional engraving around the compass rose / center point. It comes complete with the often missing knuckle joint to fit it to a staff. The sight vanes fit well, and the level vials are full. The box is nice and it has a good label inside. All in all a nice looking early 19th century surveying instrument that will look great on display.
Fine . . . . . . $900.00 SOLD!!
Adolph Tiensch of Memphis Tenn. Surveying Compass
This
Civil War era surveying compass is by a little known obscure maker, Aldoph Tiensch who was born in Germany
in 1820 and came to America
in the early 1800's. He first set up shop in Ohio in the late 1840's -
early 1850's. He moved to and is listed in Kentucky directories as an
instrument maker up till about 1860. He was first listed as a maker of scientific instruments in
Tennessee in 1867 but is believed to have been there since 1860. He
died in Memphis in 1895. Few of his instruments are found and scientific
instrument makers from
this region of the country are scarce. The instrument is approx. 15" long overall. It is in nice overall condition. All the motions work easily, and both level vials are full and appear to be original. It has the interesting feature of having folding sight veins that are also removable as in typical instruments. The vernier scale is controlled by a top mounted adjuster. The instrument was cleaned sometime in the past, but has developed a nice even patina over the years. There is no box. Nice!!
Fine . . . . . $900.00 SOLD!!
Roach & Warner Surveyors Compass
This surveyor's compass dates from the early to mid
1800's and is in very nice original condition. Roach is a well known but
relatively rare maker who started out his instrument making career on the East
Coast in New York after he came here from Ireland. He started out in the
mid 1830's or so in a partnership with Warner, and that is how this instrument
is marked. By 1850 or so he was listed in the directories of San Francisco
as a maker of scientific instruments and surveying equipment. He was soon
the best known and largest maker on the west coast.
This compass is in very nice condition exhibiting large amounts of its original finish. It appears that one vial has been refilled as the two have different color vials. . The labels inside the top indicate that this instrument was at one time in the Boston area being worked on or adjusted by the Leder and Probst there. Another tag says it was purchased from them in 1919, and then that fellow gave it to the next owner in 1959. The original Roach & Warner label is still here as well giving the location of 292 Broadway New York. The compass measures just under 16" overall, and the compass face is approx 6 3/4" with the needle being 6". The compass face is very nicely engraved with a floral and vine motif. The ball and socket mount for the Jacob staff is also present. A rare and desirable instrument in condition not typically found.
Good . . . . . $1000.00 - $2000.00 SOLD
D.
T. Lillie & Co. New Orleans Surveying
Compass D. T. Lillie, the maker of this
compass is an undocumented instrument maker on the usual surveying history
sites, and he is not listed in Smarts book on instrument makers. There is little mention of him using Google searches
either. I did
find a directory listing for him in a copy of the 1843 New Orleans
directory. The compass has the look of an early to mid 19th century New York
maker with the style engraving around the compass rose. Perhaps he
moved to warmer climates to have less competition. The
needle swings freely and points north. The silvered compass face is
very nice. The level vials are both good and have a nice patina.
The compass body has been cleaned at some point and has a different patina
from the bottom and level vials. There is no box. A rare
compass from a region not at all well known for manufacturing thing of this
sort.
Good +. . . . .$600.00 - $900.00 SOLD!!
Frye
& Shaw Surveyors Compass This surveyor's compass
dates from the mid 1800's and is in super original condition.
The partnership of Frye & Shaw (1837-1845) was
formed by Addington D. Frye and Robert Ludlow Shaw and was located in New York
City. The dovetailed
box is original and very nice. It will make a great display piece. Very
nice!
Good . . . . .$800.00 - $1500.00 SOLD
There is a nice bio at the Smithsonian site found Here:
http://americanhistory2.si.edu/collections/surveying/object.cfm?recordnumber=745994
Gregg
& Rupp Surveyors Compass This surveyor's compass
dates from the mid 1800's and is in super original condition. This
was a New York based outfit and it is done in that style. The dovetailed
box is original and very nice as well. It will make a great display piece.
Very nice!
Good + . . . . .$800.00 - $1500.00 SOLD
Levi
Colton Surveyors Compass This surveyor's compass
dates from the mid 1800's and is in super original condition. Colton began
his career in Washington, and then moved to New York and finally Connecticut.
This one is nicely engraved in the New York style of the period. It is
complete and in very nice original condition. The dovetailed box is original
and very nice as well. It is smaller than typically seen and will make a great
display piece. Very nice!
Good +. . . . .$800.00 - $1500.00 SOLD
Below is biographical information from the Smithsonian site.
Colton Levi Colton (1803-1885) was born in Massachusetts, and trained as a jeweler and silversmith. He may have learned the art of instrument making from Richard Patten, for whom he worked in Washington, D.C. in 1846, and who described him as “a quite steady and industrious man.” Around 1850 Colton was making compasses in New York City, and in the mid-1850s he was making compasses in Hartford, Connecticut.
William Young & Sons Compass w/ Auxiliary Scope Serial # 4798 This is a wonderfully graphic piece of Early Americana and American Technology which dates from approx 1876 and the era of the American Centennial. William Young was the first American instrument maker to own a dividing engine which he designed and built himself. He is also credited with designing the first American Transit. By the time this instrument was made one of his sons, Alfred had taken over the company, and it was right around this time that they fist began marking their instruments Young and Sons. This early and famous firm was located in Philadelphia, producing a quality line of instruments right up until they were acquired by Keuffel and Esser around 1918. Even then K & E continued to offer a separate line of instruments with the young name so as to maintain that customer base which had been built up over the years. This compass is approx 16" long, and the compass measures 6" with a 5 1/2 inch needle which operates just fine. The level vials are all full and appear to be original. The optics of the 7 1/2" rare auxiliary scope are clear and bright. There is one decorative small brass cover missing over the vernier adjust on the right hand side up against the compass. This can be seen in one of the pics. It is minor and does not affect operation. The sight vanes are both present and nice. The box has classic dovetail joints from the period and in general is very nice.
Good . . . . .$1000.00 - $2500.00 SOLD
Randolph's
1879 Patent Surveyors Telescopic Level Theodore Randolph was a well known instrument maker in
Ohio during his working period from roughly 1850 to near the turn of the century.
He won several awards at exhibitions and first drew a patent for this style
of telescopic compass in 1879. Randolph was born, raised, and operated
his business in Cincinnati Ohio from the mid 1800's to just before the turn
of the century. This instrument has a detachable telescope that can be
removed. The optics are good / clear, and the compass is operational.
The level vials are full and appear to be original. The silvered Vernier
is nice, and the keeper works as well. This piece was cleaned a long time
ago and has a nice mellow look to it after years of aging. A nice
piece from a hard to find maker that will make a very nice display.
Good . . . . .$500.00 - $800.00 SOLD
Randolph's
1879 Patent Surveyors Telescopic Level w/
Compass This instrument has a detachable telescope that can be removed.
The optics are good / clear. There are a couple of empty screw holes in the scope body that i do not know what
went there. This can be seen in the pics. The compass is operational and the 2 level vials embedded in the
compass face are full with green blue liquid and appear to be original. The outer silvered Vernier is nice.
The compass face measures approx 5" and it has a 4" needle which is operational. The bronzed compass face
is very nice, and the serial # is 4440. This piece has never been cleaned and has a nice patina.
The bottom connector is present and is prepared to be fitted to a tripod or staff with the threaded adapter
which has a spring loaded quick release feature.
Good . . . . .$500.00 - $800.00 SOLD
Patented T. F. Randolph Vernier Compass
w/ 4' Needle This surveying
compass is marked with the maker name T. F. Randolph, and the location
Cincinnati. Ohio as well as the patent date of June 12th 1871.
Theodore Randolph's working dates were from roughly 1850 to near the turn of
the century. He was a well known and respected surveying instrument maker
from Cincinnati Ohio. He won several awards at exhibitions and first drew a
patent for this style of compass in 1871. This instrument has two thumbscrews on the bottom to attach an auxiliary telescope that can be removed and is missing. The compass is operational and the 2 level vials embedded in the compass face are full with green blue liquid and appear to be original. The outer silvered Vernier is nice. There is a keeper / numbered dial that is operational as well. The compass face measures approx 5" and it has a 4" needle which is operational. The locking feature for the needle works, but is close to being stripped and is fragile. The bronzed compass face is very nice, and the serial # is 1121. This compass has never been cleaned and has a nice patina. The bottom knuckle joint connector has a spring loaded quick release feature and is prepared to be fitted to a staff .
A nice piece from a hard to find maker that will make a very nice display.
Good . . . . .$300.00 - $500.00 SOLD!
Robert
Shaw Surveyor's Compass Robert Shaw was
born in New York City in 1817 and worked there throughout his career.
He died in 1876. From what I have read he learned his trade and worked
with from John H. Wheeler another early New York instrument maker prior
to opening his own shop. In Smarts' bio on him he says that Shaw was
listed individually in 1836 as a instrument maker at the 222 Water St.
location. After that and until 1845 he was listed as having Addington
Frye as a partner.
I suppose this surveyors compass
with the location given could date from just after he first opened shop
in 1836-1837, and before 1838 when he was in partnership with Addington
Frye, or after 1845 when the partnership dissolved. Later Directories
indicate that Shaw was in business by himself at several other locations
in the city after 1845 and in his later working yearsSeveral years ago I had and sold a compasses marked with both names that was very similar in design and decoration to this compass. There is a picture of that compass in the archives if you care to look.
The overall condition of this surveying compass is superb. The vanes fit nicely, and the knuckle joint is present. It is all original and its patina has developed to a warm glow only possible after 150 years of careful storage. The compass face has very detailed and nicely done engraving around the ring and at the points. Early New York instrument makers were proud of their work, and it shows in the level of quality and detail that was put into this piece. The box is proper and a very nicely figured burled / flamed Walnut. It has a iridescence or shimmering quality even today nearly 150 years after it was made from the wood. Several years ago I had a Shaw & Frye Compass, but otherwise they are very hard to find today, and are considered rare in most instances. A very nice piece that is highly recommended!
Fine . . . . . . .$800.00 - $1500.00 SOLD!
Edmund
Draper Surveyor's Compass Edmund Draper was an
early and important Philadelphia instrument maker, Edmund Draper (1805-1882)
apprenticed to Benjamin Stancliffe before going out on his own beginning in the
early 1830's. He is said to have made an accurate dividing engine at a
time when on Young also of Philadelphia had the only other one. He
manufactured surveying compasses, some of which were fitted with telescopes, as
well as some early transits. It is unknown how many he made, but the Smithsonian
site estimated that the made approximately 28 instruments a year.This compass plate is 15 inches long, with crossed spirit levels on the right side. Both are full. The 7 inch sight vanes are attached with knurled thumbscrews. There is a nice even patina, and this instrument has never been cleaned or buffed. It look wonderful. The silvered compass face is signed in script "Edmund Draper Philada 375, Warranted". North is marked with an unusual seven pointed star. The compass circle is divided in quadrants and marked in 1/2 degrees. The silvered face is fine and the glass appears to be original. The compass needle and clamp work well. The 6 1/2 inch diameter, slightly domed compass cover is made of heavy brass. Complete with original hand dovetailed walnut box. The Heller & Brightly tag is probably a repair tag put there when this was sent there for adjustment or a repair. Recommended.
Good + . . . . . .$800.00 - $1500.00 SOLD!
Pocket / Dip & Other Small
Compasses
The
WM. Ainsworth & Sons
- D. W. Brunton Pocket Transit / Compass w/ Tripod & Long Leather Case
The real deal. All good. The serial # is 106375. The entire setup is in about as nice condition as one could ask for. Super condition w/ no apologies.
Fine . . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
K
& E #5293 Miners Compass / Dipping Compass
This dip compass is NOS and has just minor loss to the finish along the edges.
These were used as locators for all things magnetic, from pipes to ore.
There was a period when makers / sellers dressed them up a bit, put handles on them, and
told the American public that they could find their riches using the one
they offered.
Excellent. . . . .$100.00 - $200.00 SOLD!!
K
& E Miners Compass / Dip Compass
The body of this one is made of Aluminum. It is the same idea as
the other K & E compasses listed above.
Good + . . . .$100.00 - $200.00 SOLD!!
K
& E Forrester Compass These small
compasses were made for work on the go out in the field. Every
major maker offered a version, and here is the Keuffel & Esser model in
nice condition.
Good . . . . .$100.00 - $200.00 SOLD
K
& E #5334 Surveyors Compass This compass
is in very nice condition overall. The 2 level vials are dry but these are
easily replaceable and not a big concern. The ball joint is here, and the
mahogany box is original and has a great bubbly patina to the finish making it look
200 years older than it is. The needle is approx. 4" making this a #5334
Good+ . . . . .$195.00 SOLD
D. W. Brunton
Pocket Transit / Compass by Ainsworth Brunton Pocket Transit, by W.M. Ainsworth & Sons, Denver Colorado, Made In
USA. This pocket transit is in good operating and cosmetic condition. The serial number #17406. This pocket transit has not been cleaned or touched-up in any way. It comes in a
proper leather case that is OK and has seen use A history of Brunton and Ainsworth, including instruction on use can be found on line at the site / link https://oldtopographer.net/the-topographers-tools/brunton-pocket-transits/ A small snippet of Info from there is that Brunton the inventor contracted with Denver-based instrument maker William Ainsworth & Sons to produce the first pocket transits. Ainsworth remained the primary manufacturer of Brunton pocket transits until after WWII. In 1972 the Ainsworth company folded and the Brunton company was formed to continue production. Original Brunton compasses are still manufactured today in Riverton, Wyoming.
Good + . . . . . . $150.00 SOLD!!
D. W. Brunton Pocket Transit / Compass by Ainsworth
Brunton Pocket Transit, by W.M. Ainsworth & Sons, Denver Colorado, Made In
USA. This pocket transit is in good operating and cosmetic condition. The
serial number #43759. This pocket transit has not been cleaned or touched-up in any way. It comes in a
proper leather case that is OK but well used. A history of Brunton and Ainsworth, including instruction on use can be found on line at the site / link https://oldtopographer.net/the-topographers-tools/brunton-pocket-transits/ A small snippet of Info from there is that Brunton the inventor contracted with Denver-based instrument maker William Ainsworth & Sons to produce the first pocket transits. Ainsworth remained the primary manufacturer of Brunton pocket transits until after WWII. In 1972 the Ainsworth company folded and the Brunton company was formed to continue production. Original Brunton compasses are still manufactured today in Riverton, Wyoming.
Fine . . . . . . $150.00 SOLD!!
D.
W. Brunton Pocket Transit / Compass This
Brunton Pocket Transit is in good operating and cosmetic condition. This pocket transit has not been cleaned or touched-up in any way. It comes in a
damaged plastic case.A history of Brunton and Ainsworth, including instruction on use can be found on line at the site / link https://oldtopographer.net/the-topographers-tools/brunton-pocket-transits/ A small snippet of Info from there is that Brunton the inventor contracted with Denver-based instrument maker William Ainsworth & Sons to produce the first pocket transits. Ainsworth remained the primary manufacturer of Brunton pocket transits until after WWII. In 1972 the Ainsworth company folded and the Brunton company was formed to continue production. Original Brunton compasses are still manufactured today in Riverton, Wyoming.
Good + . . . . . . $150.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel & Esser / K& E # 5368 - 1 Pocket Transit (after Brunton)
Fine. . . . .$195.00 SOLD
K & E / Keuffel & Esser Brunton Pocket Transit / Compass
A Brunton Pocket Transit / Compass instrument offered by K & E.
It is identical in operation and design. This pocket transit is
in good operating condition noting the mirror could be replaced. A history of Brunton and Ainsworth, including instruction on use can be found on line at the site / link https://oldtopographer.net/the-topographers-tools/brunton-pocket-transits/
Good + . . . . . . $75.00 SOLD!!
Surveying / Engineering
Alidades & Plane
Tables
The
Lutz Tripod & Plane Table w/ Case These
are like new and appear to have never been used. Probably
government surplus or from a school engineering program.
There is a NSN number on the canvas case, but it means nothing to me. Nice!! Fine . . . . . . $375.00 SOLD!!
Lietz Surveyors Plane Table
This is a nice condition plane table that measures 24 x 30. The
original canvas carry case is marked with the last owners name. It is
otherwise very nice and ready for use. These were used in the field with
different style alidades when mapping or surveying and drawing at the same
time.Note: I do have alidades from the same era listed for sale on another page.
Fine . . . . .$225.00 SOLD!
Lietz Surveyors Plane Table
This plane table measures 24 x 30 and saw little actual use. There are
some minor scratches and scuffs on the face side. Also some tape
residue. The
finish is original. The first pic shows the underside with the 5/8
female mount for a Johnson Head tripod. The
table is marked Lietz above the disc. The canvas cloth case is marked with
the last owners name. It is
very nice and ready for use. There is one paper hold down missing, but
the rest are here. These were used in the field with
alidades when mapping or surveying and drawing at the same
time. Note: I do have alidades from the same era listed for sale on another page..
Fine . . . . .$350.00 SOLD!
Gurley Alidade This
Gurley Alidade is in like new condition. From the serial #573195 and using the dating chart
I have
provided a link to elsewhere on this page we can deduce it was made in 1957
and was the 3,195th instrument produced that year. It is a very
nice,
complete and dressed out example. The right angle eyepiece is
present, there is a sun shade, the striding level is here and nice, as
well as a loop and dust cover. This alidade is also outfitted with
the Beaman Stadia Arc an accessory that was first patented and offered
near the turn of the century for use on either alidades or transits to
make stadia calculations easier to compute or figure. It will make
for a great user for mapping, road layout, etc. or or it will
be a nice addition to the collection. I also have the large (24" x 31" Gurley Plane table w/ canvas cover and the proper or matching Johnson head tripod to make this a complete outfit. They will be found listed separately on the tripod page.
Excellent . . . . . . .$495.00 SOLD!
Gurley
Expedition Size Alidade in Leather Covered Box The serial # of
181647 would
date this from 1918. It is in good overall condition. Crosshairs present, optics good.
Bubble on striding level is dead.Trough
compass
works. All
motions are free and smooth. Has Beaman Stadia arc. The scope is approx. 10" long.The box is solid. Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $195.00 SOLD!!
Gurley
Expedition Size Alidade in Box
The serial # of 201419 would
date this from 1920. It is in very good condition. Bronze lacquer
finish is good. Crosshairs are present, optics good.Good bubble.Compass
works. All
motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 10" long.The box is solid and shows age
and wear. No key. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $225.00 SOLD!!
W. & L. E. Gurley Explorer
/ Expedition Alidade
This Gurley Alidade is in good overall condition. The optics are OK. The leather covered case
is OK and shows its age. The serial # indicates it dates from 1927.These small alidades without a post are referred to as the Explorer or Expedition model and were typically used in the field with plane tables for mapmaking and road or plan drawing. The round level bubble is there, but enlarged. The trough compass needle seems to be OK. It has the auxiliary Beaman Stadia Arc w/ Magnifier.
Good . . . . . $175.00 SOLD!!
W. & L. E. Gurley High Post Alidade in Box The serial # of 521532 would
date this from 1952. It is in very good condition. Black crinkle finish on scope is good. Crosshairs are present, optics good.
Good bubble. Trough Compass works. All motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 10" long.
The box is nice and solid. No key. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $195.00
Gurley
Expedition Size Alidade in Leather Covered Box The serial # of
5078 would
date this from 1950. It is in good overall condition. Crosshairs present, optics good. Good bubbles.Trough
compass
works. All
motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 10" long.The box is solid and shows age
and wear. Nice!! Good + . . . . . $100.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel
& Esser / K & E 5095 A Expedition Alidade in Box
A nice looking instrument by Keuffel & Esser one of the premier
makers of surveying instruments in America. The serial # of 104016 would
date this from approx. 1948. It is in very nice condition and looks to have seen
little if any use. The scope is approx. 10" long. Crisp optics. Good bubbles
and compass. Note the magnifier on the vernier scale. Very Nice!! Fine . . . . . . $250.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser #5093 Alidade
This dates from the 60's or 70's and saw little use in
the field. It was purchased at a time of changing technologies and
priorities and spent most of its like sitting on a shelf rather than being
used. The optics
are crystal clear, and the striding level is nice. No issues or
problems Use it or
display it, it is a nice piece.Please note, I also have several Johnson Head Tripods and Plane tables listed on another page if you are looking for those.
Fine . . . . .$395.00 SOLD!
Gurley
High Post Alidade in Box
The serial # of 522385 would
date this from 1952. It is in good condition. Crosshairs present, optics good. Good bubble.Compass
works. All motions are free. The scope is approx. 10" long.The box is
good. The striding level is present and OK, noting the release
button is missing. Nice!! Good + . . . . . . $175.00 SOLD!!
Gurley
Explorer Low Post Alidade
This Gurley Alidade is in good condition. The leather
covered case is nice. These are referred to as the Explorer model
and were typically used in the field. Alidades were intended for use with plane tables
and used in mapmaking and plan drawing. The optics are good, and
the level bubble full. The small compass needle seems to be OK as well.
Excellent . . . . . $395.00 SOLD
K & E High Post Alidade
This Alidade is in good condition. There is no box but it looks to have spent
most of its life in one. Alidades were intended for use with plane tables
and used in mapmaking and plan drawing. The optics are good, and
the level bubble full. The small compass needle seems to be OK as well.
Excellent . . . . . $325.00 SOLD
Buff
& Berger High Post Alidade This early
Buff & Berger Alidade is in good overall condition. The vial on the striding
level is broken, but it is otherwise in nice condition. It has an interesting
look to it with all the mixed metals in natural finish which I believe is original.
There is original lacquer finish on the tail piece still flaking off.
Sometimes when you find instruments like this it indicates the original finish
has been stripped and the maker did not care if he used different types or color
material, but I do not think that is what is going on here. I think they
just decided to use the contrasting colors to make a visual statement.
The box is original and OK. Alidades were intended for use with
plane tables and used in mapmaking and plan drawing. The optics
are OK. Buff & Berger began operations in the 1870's and split off into
separate companies near the turn of the century which would date this from the
1880's or so.
Good + . . . . . $595.00 SOLD
A.
Lietz Alidade w/ Box
This well made and
interesting instrument is by one of the best know and trusted names in the field
of surveying instruments. The instrument itself is in excellent condition
and the optics are clear. It has three horizontal lines. These instruments
were designed to be used by surveyors and mapping parties. They were used
in the field on a table and map. Inside the top there is writing and names
of different groups that used this over the years. The earliest I see is from
1924, and I would guess that this piece dates from right around then. It is
clean damage free and operational in all respects. The separate level pictured
was meant to lay on the top of the scope. The base appears to be made of German
Silver or some similar material. All bubbles are good. The box is scuffed
and scratched but would look much better with a simple cleaning and wax job.
Good+ . . . . . . . $395.00 SOLD
Buff
& Buff Explorer Size Alidade
Minty nice in a great mottled gold finish I do not recall seeing before. The box is nice noting
the leather is gone.
Fine . . . . . . $350.00 SOLD!!
Berger Expedition Size Alidade in Box The
serial # is 24986. It is in good overall condition. Crosshairs present, optics
inverted and good. Good bubble. Compass
works. All
motions are free. The scope is approx. 10" long.The box is
OK noting damage to leather cover and loose lid. Note the
magnifier over the vernier scale. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . $225.00 SOLD!!
Keuffel & Esser / K & E 5093 A Special Alidade in Box
A nice looking instrument by Keuffel & Esser one of the premier
makers of surveying instruments in America. The serial # of 103665 would
date this from approx. 1948. It is in very nice condition and looks to have seen
little if any use. The scope is approx. 11" long.Crisp optics. Good bubbles
and compass. Note the magnifier on the vernier scale. Very Nice!!
Fine . . . . . . $275.00 SOLD!!
K
& E #5095A Expedition Size Alidade w/ Leather covered Case This
K & E Alidade is in like new, never used condition. The serial # 97975
indicates it was made in the late forties. It came from the same
stash as the plane tables and other NOS K 7 E pieces I am offering. It
would go perfect with the K & E Plane Table and Tripod I have listed on a
separate page. These were used in topographical and map making and
this size was typically used in the field. The removable striding
level is present and nice and all motions are free and smooth. The optics
are bright and clear. The crosshairs present.
Excellent + . . . . . . . $395.00
SOLD!
Gurley Alidade
This came from a surplus sale and saw little use in the
engineering program it was originally bought for. Nice condition noting the
electric pen ID marks.
Fine . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
Gurley High Post Alidade
This nice looking alidade dates from the 60's and saw little use in
the field. It was purchased at a time of changing technologies and
priorities and spent most of its like sitting on a shelf rather than being
used. The optics
are crystal clear, the striding level is nice as is the bubble level and
magnetic compass. The previous owners tag is still on the base and they
also
scratched their name into the base with an electric pen, but it is not
distracting. There are no other issues or
problems Use it or
display it, it is a nice piece.Please note, I also have several Johnson Head Tripods and Plane tables listed on another page if you are looking for those.
Fine . . . . . $395.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser #5093A Alidade
This nice condition alidade dates from the 60's or 70's and saw little use in
the field. It was purchased by the engineering department at a local
community college at a time of changing technologies and
priorities and spent most of its like sitting on a shelf rather than being
used. The optics
are crystal clear, and the striding level is nice. There are spare
bubbles, the sunshade, screwdriver and more No issues or
problems other than the name of the school it came from written in the base
with an electric pen. Use it or
display it, it is a nice piece.Please note, I also have several Johnson Head Tripods and Plane tables listed on another page if you are looking for those.
Fine . . . . . $350.00 SOLD!!
K
& E / Keuffel & Esser # 5093A High Post Alidade
This alidade is in excellent condition and saw little use. The serial
# is 172908 which would date it from the early 60's. It was bought
by the engineering department of a local community college and spent most of the
last 50 + years sitting on a shelf in a storage closet.The optics are crystal clear, and the image is inverted. Cross-hairs are present. The striding level is nice and all bubbles full. There is a spare bubble inside the box. It still has the original screwdriver, and even a K & E marked Loupe. It has a stadia arc on the side. The label inside the box says it is also equipped w/ a 4097-CG which the catalog calls off as a diaphragm. The small compass on the base is operational as is the level bubble on the base. The one apology would be the name of the college inscribed on the base in electric pen. It is otherwise in excellent condition.
Fine + . . . . .$350.00 SOLD!!
K & E
- Keuffel & Esser High Post Alidade w/ Plane Table & Tripod
The serial # 84214
dates this High Post Alidade from 1943. The instrument is in nice condition with good clear
optics. All motions are free. There are two eyepieces.
It has been in storage for years, and there is some green tarnish showing
on brass parts that will easily clean. The striding level is present
and OK. The K & E Johnson Head collapsible leg tripod is in fine condition showing little if any signs of use. The 18 x 24" Plane Table is in like new condition. The alidade box is OK, but lost one layer of its Oak veneer ply cover on the top. Nice!!
Good + . . . . . . 3 Pieces as a lot . . . . . . $575.00 SOLD!!
Antique & Vintage
Sextants / Octants
The
Heath & Co.
Crayford London Sextant This Heath & Co. Crayford London Sextant
is in its original box and seems complete w/ several different scopes.
All mirrors and filter shades are good. The scales are good. A nice
Genuine Maritime / nautical display piece. Fine . . . . . . . $375.00 SOLD!!
Marine
Navigation Tool / Octant / Sextant
This
is English in a box with an American label on it. That would be
typical as many of these were imported and sold by distributers here in
the US. Note the stepped top box which I believe is an indication
of it being early. Also note the early repair to the box lid. The body
of the octant is made of ebony and the wear strips
ivory or bone. It is marked across the arch with the maker and
location. A nice piece.
Good+ . . . . . . .$750.00 SOLD
D.
Filby Hamburg Germany Ebony & Ivory Octant / Sextant
D. Filby was a well known and respected German maker who sold his
business to Plath in 1862. The D. Filby company operated from 1837 till it
was sold to the Carl Plath company in 1862. It was made in Hamburg, Germany.
The overall condition of this unusual Pre Civil War Antique Maritime Navigational device
is very nice.The body of this mariner's navigational octant is made of ebony w/ brass or bronze fittings. The D. Filby name and Hamburg are inscribed on the ivory plate set in the cross bar. The ebony frame is very nice. The index bar and shade mirrors (5 total, 2 circular, 3 square) all move freely. The shade mirrors have colored lenses. The horizon and index mirrors are intact. The ivory name plate and scales are good. The wood box is original with some damage. A small piece of the box bottom is missing. There is a label from the seller or distributer inside.
This instrument is properly called an octant although many refer to them as sextants. It is a graphic, unusual, and nice looking Maritime Navigational Instrument that will make for a great addition to any number of collections.
Good + . . . . . . $695.000 SOLD!!
Abrams Universal Sun Compass The
Abrams Universal Sun Compass
was designed to be used in vehicles during WWII to allow the driver to
figure out where he was headed. Abrams Co. was contracted by the U.S. Military to build a device that allowed users
to determine the compass bearing when magnetic variation was too high to reliably use a magnetic compass.
A simple solar compass.The device mounts on a vehicle and as long as one knows the correct time the vehicles course can be determined by the shadow cast onto the plate or dial. I imagine that the sun had to be out as well.
Includes black back disc, 360 degree outer edge with time plate. Complete with copy of original literature in wooden box. A piece of WWII American Military history. It weighs approx. 7.6 lbs. and the dimensions are 10" x 10" 2.75"
Fine . . . . . $250.00 SOLD!!
Circle
Frame Sextant / Octant / Quadrant w/ Several Scopes
This interesting maritime or nautical piece dates from near the turn of the century.
It is housed in a close fitting Mahogany box that is in nice condition.
I am not sure if the proper term is Sextant, Quadrant or Octant. The
label inside the top indicates that it is a sextant, and that it was
calibrated, or certified by the National Physical Laboratory back near the
turn of the century. I believe it is English, but I see no maker ID
anywhere. Note the swinging magnifier over the outer scale when
viewing all the pics. All in all a nice condition piece of Maritime history
that will display even better w/ a lite cleaning.
Good + . . . . .$195.00 SOLD!!
Stanley
/ London Pocket Box Sextant
An English prismatic style pocket sextant from the WWI era. The
instrument is marked 1919, and the leather case 1914 as well as another name.
After taking the protective cover off you can utilize the different
functions and lenses to figure out where you are at in the world.It is in good used condition. It includes the leather case. These pocket sextants have been reproduced, and new versions are currently being offered too. This is neither of those and is a genuine vintage item dating from the early 1900s.
Good + . . . . . . $125.00 SOLD!!
Negretti and Zambra Pocket Sextant The English instrument seems to be in nice condition. It dates from near the turn of the century. The leather case has seen better days and is falling apart. The inner brass case unscrews and screws back on as a cover. All motions operate. The mirror is OK. There are two dark lenses inside that swivel into place. The scales are silvered and there is a magnifier to help read them. Nice!!
Good +. . . . .$175.00 SOLD!!
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