Stanley English Theodolite, 1913

Wonderful vintage theodolite made in England by Stanley brand, in 1913. It comes into its original wooden case. This theodolite shows the quality of the instruments of the brand, and is also a smart example of the beautiful making of scientific instruments from the beginning of the 20th century.W. F. Stanley & Co. Ltd. brand was founded in 1854 by engineer and inventor William Ford Robinson Stanley. The firm made mathematical instruments, as well as surveying material and telescopes. Willam Ford Stanley got seventy eight patents, filed in the USA and the United Kingdom. Stanleys theodolites were a revolution in the field of land surveying: he simplified their construction, making it lighter, cheaper and more accurate. The theodolite works perfectly and keeps all its original pieces. The bubble levels are intact. The gears work and move softly and fluidly, like new. This instrument was revised and adjusted in 1935 and 1956, as stated on both labels inside the case. The theodolite comes with an eyepiece, a device with a needle designed to adjust the horizontal level and a small empty bottle which originally contained lubricant. The bottle has a label with the products brand and the city where it was located (London). The instrument is in good condition, showing an elegant matt black finish. The slight signs of wear it shows are due to the trace of time and the use, being a sign of its age and providing the theodolite with even more charm. The wooden case which houses the instrument and the accessories is also original. It is made of light solid wood with walnut-colored varnish and it keeps the original metal shutting hooks. On the front it bears the word THEODOLITE in big white lettering, neat and clear. The dovetail joints are slim and elegant, very attractive and strong. Inside the cover there is a label with the name of the maker, W. F. Stanley & Co., and a description of the instruments features. It also shows the date of making (Aug., 1913) and the serial number (113204), both handwritten. All this details guarantee that we are looking at an original piece, a hundred per cent authentic, as beautiful as interesting and working like new. It is undoubtedly the perfect acquisition for any lover of vintage surveying instruments. Measurements: 280 mm width x 400 mm height.