Antique A.G. Thornton Surveyor's Level. Thornton in Very Good Condition. England, Circa 1900

Original surveyor level made in Manchester, England by A.G. Thornton Ltd. This is an antique piece that remains in very good condition. It was made circa 1900 and comes in its original wooden case. The level still works fine and preserves all its original component parts and pieces, including the delicate and fragile glass capsules with the bubbles. It mounts black-lacquered iron stand, base and telescope with golden-brass mobile parts. Both materials remain in good condition, enhanced by the nice patina created by the trace of time. The level bears the manufacturers name, city and serial number engraved in the metal: A.G. THORNTON Ltd MANCHESTER Nº 338. The instrument can be dismantled and stored in its original case, made of solid oak wood and with the original hinges and shutting hooks. Inside the cover we can see a fine metal plate with the manufacturing companys name and the overlapping paper stickers. The rear sticker shows part of the name of the original distributor, and the front one indicates that the level was overhauled and adjusted by A.G. Thornton Ltd. in 1950. All the lovers of scientific antiques will appreciate the beauty and the charm displayed by this amazing surveyor level. Measurements: Width: 12,2 in / 31 cm. Height: 5.9 in / 15 cm. History of A.G. ThorntonA.G. Thornton was founded in Manchester, England in 1878 to make and supply drawing and surveying material for professionals and schools. During the first decades the business grew considerably, and eventually they were appointed as a contractor to Her Majestys Government. During World War II the manufacturing premises were destroyed, but the company started again after de content. Curiously enough, they optimized and re-organized their production methods thanks to a British Intelligence report on the German drawing instrument industry. In 1949 A.G. Thornton employed 220 workers. In 1967 the company changed its name to British Thornton. From the 70s until now, the firm has concentrated on supplying furniture and equipment for Craft, Design and Technology schools.