Antique Expedition Level, Complete and Functioning. Germany, Circa 1900

This attractive instrument, very antique and still functional, is a portable surveying level made in Germany in the early 20th century (circa 1900). In spite of being so old the level has survived to our days in very good condition and working order. It comes in its original case, a piece that even showing clearly the ravages of time and use has helped to maintain the level well preserved and with all its component parts. The instrument comes disassembled and it is accompanied by a discreet solid wooden stand, especially designed to exhibit the piece. The parts that make up the surveying level are made of golden brass and iron. Though they are in good condition, their outer surface shows signs of wear and we can see the nice patina provided by its ancient age - more than one hundred years. Nevertheless, the connections and mobile parts work fine and the telescope keeps the original lenses. The piece that supports the instrument and connects it to the wooden stand bears the engraved manufacturers name: GEORG BUTENSCHÖN BAREHNFELD B. HAMBURG. On the other hand, in the small spirit level attached to the telescope we can read the instruments patent number: DRP 36795. (number 9 looks more than a 3 but its a 9) Georg Butenschön was the proprietor of a workshop for scientific instruments located in Bahrenfeld, near Hamburg, and he showed his wares at the international exhibitions held in Chicago (1893), Berlin (1896), and Paris (1900). His basic pocket level was based on his German patent (#36795 dated 1886), which described an instrument in which the level vial, cross hairs, and distant object were seen together through the eyepiece of the telescope. The glass capsule with the bubble is the original one and is in good condition. The case where the level is stored is semicircular in shape and small in size. It is made of wood and is outside lined with black faux leather. Inside the base is drilled with a series of gaps shaped like the surveying levels component parts, designed to organize and protect them. The lids inner side is covered by an ancient indigo velvet lining that still preserves its beautiful color though being worn along the rim. The case preserves one of its two small metal locks and part of the other. As reliable as fine, this amazing surveying level was a direct witness to the topographic expeditions of the early 20th century. Measurements: Width: 4.9 in / 12.5 in. Height: 4.7 in / 12 cm.