Topographical Prisms, ca. 1930

Great prism station kit of surveying made in England in the 1920-30s. This item comes in its original solid wooden case, which is also well preserved and keeps the original shutting devices and leather strap. The kit is composed of two prisms in very good condition and perfect working order, both made of black-lacquered iron and with all their original pieces. The prisms have bases adjustable in height, each one with three brass knobs designed to balance the pieces when using them. These elements are used to measure distances in surveying.The prisms bear an engraved inscription reading COOKE, TROUGHTON & SIMMS LTD. LONDON & YORK. These words indicate that the kit was made by a company founded originally in London by Edward Troughton y William Simms (1826). The firm made mathematic instruments and also surveying and measurement equipment, carrying forward the work of John Troughton (Edwards father), a prestigious instrument maker of the 1800s. In 1922 the firm merged with T. Cooke & Sons, Ltd. And changed its name to Cooke, Troughton & Simms. In 1963 it was called Vickers Instruments, Ltd., and kept on working till 1988. The prisms can be dismantled in different parts in order to be stored into the case; all the components are in good condition. The bubble levels are the original ones, and so are the glasses and the rest of the pieces. The storing case is made of solid wood, boasting an attractive reddish tone. Inside the lid we can see an oval metal plate (screwed to the wood) with the name of the manufacturing brand and its different locations in England and South Africa.This prism station kit of surveying is a wonderful vintage item, full of charm and originality and that has come to us complete and in great condition. It is undoubtedly a great purchase for a keen collector of scientific antiques.Measurements: Width: 14 cm. Height: 35 y 32 cm.