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Antique & Vintage Telescopes/Opticals Page 1 (FOR SALE)

Britannic 2 draw field telescope by Broadhurst Clarkson

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An earlier vintage 2 draw field telescope, complete with its original leather covering and end caps. Engraved on the first draw ' Britannic, B.C & Co Ltd, England'and made by Broadhurst Clarkson.
In good sound condition all round with dent free tubes, the optics are also in very good order, and the 42mm objective glass delivers a bright sharp image of approximately 20x magnification.
The leather work is looking a little tired in places, but there are no tears or gouges, and the stitching is still intact.
Measuring 26" fully extended with ray shade, 10" closed, and weighing just under 1kg, a good practical telescope for every day use.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
£120		SC804	Free	£13

Single draw Coast Guard telescope by Cary, London

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A superb example of a turn of the century Coast Guard telescope engraved 'CARY. LONDON 93202'.
A single draw design made from nickeled silver brass, this is a powerful telescope, probably in excess of 40x magnification and the 55mm objective lens delivers one of the sharpest images I've seen from a telescope of this period, and is a joy to use. In very good condition all round, the stitched leather cladding and matching end caps are virtually scuff free, although the leather carry strap appears to be a replacement, but is still sturdy enough to do the job.
This is a telescope of impressive proportions, measuring 35" fully extended, 29" closed, and weighing just over 2kgs. The eyepiece also has an internal swivel dust cover, and the rayshade is of the screw on type, all tubes are dent free.
Coast Guard telescopes in such good condition are rare, and its a testament to their quality & performance, that a small number from this era are still in use today by some UK Coast Guards!

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
£260		SC802	Free	£24

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This impressive 4 draw marine telescope dates to around 1830 and has has four draw sections extending to 36", and 10" closed. Although unsigned, its very similar in design to the Dollond models of the same era, and is also comparable in quality. The optics are in remarkably clean condition, and the powerful magnification and image clarity are first class. The main object lens is 50mm in diameter, with a barely visible edge chip on the inner lens, which in no way affects the image. It comes with its original leather protective case and also has a brass cover for the main objective lens, the eye-piece is fitted with a sliding shutter.
The main section is of a dark polished textured mahogany or rosewood, and is in superb undamaged condition. The brass sections slide smoothly, with just some normal usage wear and the occasional minor dint here and there.
This is a top quality instrument in good original condition which performs as well as it displays.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
£185		SC787	Free	£18

1930's single draw naval telescope by Ottway London

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A fine example of a Naval Officer of the Watch telescope by W Ottway & Co Ltd, Ealing, London, serial no 599. Manufactured during the 1930's, this telescope is not only visually impressive with its German nickel silver draw tube & fittings, but also delivers a sharp, clear image through the 35mm objective lens. Ottway telescopes were made to the highest standards and this particular one also carries the National Physical Laboratory testing logos for 1935 & 1938.
The condition is very good, with superb optics giving approximately 20x magnification, and completely dent free. Covered in a tan leather cladding in good condition, with all stitching intact and still has the objective lens leather end cap which appears to have had a repair in the past but is still sound. A fully working single draw naval telescope, that is as practical today as when it was first made.
Dimensions, 18" closed, 25" fully extended with sliding sun shade, also has a protective sliding dust cover on the eyepiece.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC806

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Late 19th century 3 draw leather clad pocket telescope with loops for a lanyard, and embossed 'TRADE MARK' in gold letters on the leather. There is also a symbol which appears to be some sort of bird symbol on the leather and is probably the logo of the maker, but I've yet to identify who this might be.
Measuring 5.75" closed and 16" extended, with an objective lens diameter of 25mm, its in good condition with no dents & optics are clear and undamaged, delivering a clear strong image of around 15x magnification.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC790

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This is a fine example of the famous Scout Regiment telescope adopted by the British Army in 1939. Made by Broadhurst Clarkson, the specification was developed from its WW1 predecessor the Tel Sig model, but with improvements in both weight and ease of use. Its a 3 draw scope with a 22x magnification, and is engraved 'TEL SCT REG MK.II s, BC Ltd & Co, 6689 O S 126 GA' on the first draw. It has superb crystal clear optics with a 2" objective lens, and the stitched leather cladding is also in very good condition as can be seen in the photos. The brass draw tubes still have a firm action and are dent free except for one very small dimple on the first draw measuring around 2mm, which is not really of any significance, but I mention it for accuracy and have provided a close up in one of the photos.
The eyepiece has a swivel dust cover which incorporates a light filter, and the telescope comes with its original separate hard leather case which again is in excellent condition. Measuring just over 10" closed and 31.5" fully extended including sunshade, it weighs 1.2kgs and 1.5kgs with its case, making it an ideal field stalking telescope.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC797

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Late 19th century 3 draw leather clad pocket telescope. Measuring 6" closed and 17" extended, with an objective lens diameter of 30mm, its in very good condition with nice clear optics which are undamaged, delivering a surprisingly strong image for its size. The eyepiece lens is also protected by an internal swivel dust cover. Unsigned, but a quality piece nevertheless, which is still very practical today.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC789

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Superb early 19th century single draw leather clad Ships telescope of impressive proportions, measuring 21" closed and 40" fully extended with ray shade. Although unsigned this is clearly a quality piece that dates to around 1830. The 44mm objective lens delivers a clear sharp image and is in good condition, save for a minor chip on the lens outer edge which is barely noticeable and does not affect the image in any way. All other lenses are in good order, and the eyepiece is fitted with a swivel shutter for protection. The condition is very good all round, including the stitched leather cladding which is intact, with only one small dent under the leather.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC707

1943 W Ottway Officer of the Watch Naval telescope

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A classic single draw WW2 Royal Navy Officer of the Watch telescope engraved 'Patt 373B, W. Ottway & Co Ltd, Ealing, London, 1943, No 6170'.
The powerful 1.75" object lens delivers a sharp, clear image of approx 20x , and this telescope is as practical today as when it was made in 1943. Ottway were renowned for the quality of their telescopes, and along with the war department crowsfoot symbol, it also has the National Physical Laboratory testing logo for the year 1944. These telescopes were specially constructed for Naval use and are very robust, the condition being good all round, save for some scuffing on the stitched leather cladding, which is still in complete condition.
Dimensions, 13" closed 24" fully extended with sliding hood, protective leather end cap.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC771

3 draw field telescope by Broadhurst Clarkson

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Superb condition 3 draw leather clad field telescope by Broadhurst Clarkson. This model is called the Pancratic Tourist, which is fitted with an additional Pancratic Draw Tube, enabling the power to be increased at will from 25x to 40x in stages of 5x. This is a great advantage as objects not clearly seen can be readily observed with 40x. The telescope body is covered Brown Calf, and the draw tubes are bronzed brass, also comes with leather end caps and carry strap.
Engraved ' Broadhurst Clarkson & co Ltd, 63 Farringdon Road, London E.C', and measuring 10" closed, 30" open, this is the largest version of the Pancratic Tourist range with an object glass diameter of 56mm. The condition of this telescope is exceptional as can be seen from the photos, and is fully functional with clear undamaged lenses, and dent free tubes. A great telescope to use.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC767

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19th century 3 draw leather clad ships telescope. Dating to around 1850, measuring 10" closed and 32" including sunshade fully extended, with an objective lens diameter of 45mm. This is an impressive telescope with a magnification of approx 20x, delivering a nice sharp clear image.
In great condition, the lacquered brass has a wonderful patination with a smooth action on the draws, and sliding sun/dew hood, the eyepiece is protected by an integral swivel dust cover. All lenses are present and clear, although there is a small edge chip on the objective lens which is not easily visible, and does not affect the image in anyway, but I mention it for clarity. The leather cladding is in very good condition with no shrinkage, and the brasswork is free from any dents. Unsigned, but nevertheless a quality antique telescope in fine condition.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC758

3 draw ships telescope by Chadburns of Liverpool

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3 draw leather clad ships telescope, signed Chadburns Ltd, Liverpool. Dates to around 1900, of blackened brass construction with original stitched black leather covering on the object barrel. The telescope is in good condition all round, and has a nice smooth draw. Lenses are also in good order, free from chips, scratches or fungus, and produces a bright clear image. Measuring over 31" fully extended, and 9.5" closed, 45mm objective lens with sliding sunshade. Well made, quality telescope in full working order, with sliding shutter on eyepiece.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC757

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19th century 3 draw mahogany banded marine telescope, dating to around 1860. A comfortable pocket size telescope, measuring just over 6" closed and 19" extended including sun/dew hood, with an objective lens diameter of 33mm, giving a sharp clear image of around 15x magnification, and all lenses are free from damage.
In good condition all round, the mahogany barrel in particular has a wonderfully rich patination , and the draw action is smooth. Incorporates a swivel shutter for the eyepiece, a great telescope to use or display.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC749

Vintage 3 draw Quick Focus field telescope by J H Steward London

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An excellent condition 3 draw leather clad tapered barrel field telescope by J H Steward. This particular telescope is engraved 'Quick Focus 22/100 Spotter, J H Steward Ltd, LONDON' Measuring 31" extended, 11" closed, the 55mm objective glass delivers a bright sharp image of 25x and focuses from around 10metres to infinity. Has a unique twist eyepiece for quick focusing, hence its name. All lenses are in good undamaged condition, and the leatherwork is also in fine order, including end caps and carry strap.
Ideal for every day use, with all the attributes of a good stalking telescope, enabling detailed subject viewing of over a mile. Compares well to the modern stalking telescopes made by Gray & Co in Inverness, which retail for over £900!

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC736

WW1 Officer of the Watch Naval telescope Hughes London

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A fine example of a WW1 single draw, Officer of the Watch naval telescope signed, H HUGHES & SON LTD, LONDON, NO 8258. Nickel silver construction with stitched leather cladding on the main barrel, there is a swivel dust shield for the eyepiece. In very good condition throughout, no dents or dings, the undamaged lenses deliver a powerful clear image of approximately 20x magnification. With all stitching intact on the rich leather cladding, it measures 24" fully extended including sunshade, 18" closed, with an objective lens of 35mm in diameter. A nice telescope for practical every day use.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC712

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A genuine Ross Naval telescope engraved 'Pattern 373, ROSS LONDON, No 84195'.
With all the Ross reproductions on the market at the moment, its refreshing to find the real thing in such nice condition. A single draw design made from nickeled silver brass, the tapered barrel is clad in a rich brown, stitched leather covering, which is still in very good condition, save for a few small ink stains. Dating from the 1920's, this is a quality scope with a powerful 45mm diameter objective lens, producing a strong, clear image. Protected by a lens cap and a swivel dust slide to the eyepiece, its in excellent condition with a smooth, firm draw action. Measures 17" closed and 27.5" fully extended with sliding ray shade.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC665

Signalling telescope by Broadhurst Clarkson

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A military 3 draw field telescope as used by signalling regiments in the inter war period. Made by Broadhurst Clarkson and engraved on first draw tube,' TEL. SIG. (MK VI) B.C. LTD & CO, 475 O.S. 717 G.A.' also has the military arrow stamp.
This is an impressive telescope, measuring 36" fully extended with sunshade, and 11" closed. It comes with two eyepieces marked 'High' & 'Low', which give 30x & 15x power respectively, and the 60mm objective lens delivers a clear, sharp image. In very good condition all round, including the leather cladding and straps (the long carrying strap appears to be a later replacement), the draw action is still firm and there are no dents. A substantial telescope complete with its accessories, of a rare model type which will appeal to collectors of militaria, yet is still practical to use for field pursuits.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC705

19th century 3 draw maritime telescope by J Cam , London

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Nice example of a Naval telescope, by J Cam London, which has a mahogany barrel with 3 brass draw tubes. Measures 35" fully extended with sun shade, 11.5" closed. Sliding shutters at each end protect the 45mm achromatic objective lens and eyepiece. Dating to around 1825, this telescope is in very good condition all round, the brass draw tubes have some usage wear and the odd minor ding, but still retain a smooth action.
Optically very good, all 5 lenses are undamaged, producing crisp clear image to around 20x magnification. The mahogany barrel is also in excellent condition, no splits or cracks, all in all a quality piece, good for practical use as well as display.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC640

19th century 3 draw leather barrelled telescope by Blackham, W.Hampton

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19th century 3 draw medium size telescope signed 'Blackham W.Hampton' on the protective brass cover. The optics are in fine condition and protected by lens end cap with dust slide to the eyepiece, image is clear & sharp. Leather cladding incorporates original strap loops and is in great condition, as are the brass tubes which have no dents. It measures 8" closed and 23" extended, with an objective lens diameter of 40mm.
Footnote: The main photo image of this telescope is to be featured on BBC1's Bargain Hunt show sometime this year, in one of the episodes at Burghley House, to illustrate a story where the presenter describes how the resident of the house paid for a painting with a telescope.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC622

Early naval telescope by Crichton London

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This is a large Day or Night single draw marine telescope by Crichton London, and dates to around 1830. Of impressive proportions, it measures 38" with sliding hood extended, 20" closed, and has good, clear undamaged optics. As with all Day or Night telescopes, the objective glass is relatively large in order to gather the maximum amount of light to enable viewing in darker conditions. Both the eyepiece & objective glass are protected by sliding shutters, and the main barrel is oak with some age staining, but no splits or heavy gouges. This is an early telescope by a quality maker, in unusually good condition.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC584

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A fine 3 draw Naval telescope from one of the exceptional makers of the 19th century, Spencer Browning & Co, who succeeded Spencer Browning & Rust. They specialised in instruments for navigational use, and there are now relatively few telescopes to be found by Spencer Browning. This one dates to around 1855, and although not pristine, has survived in better than average condition. The leather cladding is complete, with only some scuffing, the brass tubes have only minor dints and optically it is remarkably clear & sharp with no lens damage. Telescopes by this maker were of the highest standard for the period, and this is no exception. In full working order, includes eyepiece swivel dust cover, it measures 10" closed & 28.5" extended, objective lens 40mm diameter.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC570

19th century 2 draw telescope by Troughton & Simms

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An exceptional two draw leather clad field telescope signed Troughton & Simms, London in fancy script.
This partnership started in 1826, and continued under this name until 1922 when it combined with Thomas Cooke to become Cooke, Troughton & Simms Ltd. This particular telescope dates to the latter part of the 19th century, and is in very good condition, with no denting on the brass draw tubes. The tapered main barrel is clad in a tan coloured leather, expertly stitched with virtually no scuffing. The 40mm objective glass is protected by a leather end cap, as is the eyepiece which has the added protection of a swivel cover. Measuring 8" closed and 16" extended, this is a fully functional telescope with undamaged crystal clear optics, magnification is around 20x.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC565

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Superb single draw marine telescope signed 'Dollond London, Day or Night' in copperplate script. The day or night type of telescope was made from around 1830, and this style of telescope is probably from around 1840. This is an impressive marine telescope, measuring 39" fully extended with sliding sunshade, and 20" closed. The 1.75" objective lens has a protective brass end cap, and the eyepiece is fitted with a swivel shutter. The condition is excellent all round including the rosewood barrel which has no splits or gouges, and the optics are clear with no damage. Another fine example from Dollond.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC336

Classic 2 draw Library telescope by Aitchison London, circa 1900

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An impressive 2 draw lacquered brass Library telescope with a table top stand. Circa 1900, and signed 'AITCHISON, LONDON & PROVINCES, THE STUDENT'. Not only is this telescope visually stunning, but the optics are first class delivering a very powerful clear image, I would estimate magnification to be between 30x to 40x. Dimensions are 29" extended, 16" closed, and the height with tripod is just under 18", comes with brass end cap for objective lens, and swivel shutter for eyepiece. Not just a telescope ideal for regular use, but an item that will add style to any surrounding, and just think what a gift it would make for that special occasion!

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC337

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