Page Links

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

Single draw Coast Guard telescope by Cary London

Click photo for larger images

A superb example of a turn of the century Coast Guard telescope engraved 'CARY. LONDON 93202'.
A single draw design made from nickel 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
	SOLD	SC1012

WW2 Naval Officers telescope, pattern CKC 373C

Click photo for larger images

A classic single draw Naval Officer of the Watch telescope, engraved 'CKC 160177 Pattern 373C No 2590' on the first draw, and also has the Canadian C military arrow.
Measuring 13" closed and 23" fully extended, the powerful 42mm object lens delivers a sharp, clear image of approx 18x , and this telescope is as practical today as when it was first made.
Made by the Canadian Kodak Company, these telescopes were specially constructed for Naval use and are very robust, with nickel plated draw tube and fittings.
This model also has a numbered diopter ring for pre focusing.
In very good cosmetic condition, the main barrel still has its original synthetic cladding which is in good sound condition with only the odd scuff, and all tubes are dent free giving a smooth draw action.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC1004

Vintage 2 draw field telescope by Coppock London

Click photo for more images

A Vintage 2 draw field telescope, complete with its original leather covering and protective leather end caps, all in superb condition. Engraved on the first draw ' Coppock, London, 20x' which I believe refers to J T Coppock a London maker, it probably dates to the 1950's.
In excellent condition all round with dent free tubes which appear to have had very little use, retaining all their original anti glare coating, the 35mm object lens delivers a quality image of 20x magnification.
One minor blemish is a small edge chip on one of the internal eyepiece lenses, but I would stress this in no way affects the image or clarity which is pin sharp & very clear.
The eyepiece cup has an integral swivel dust cover and the leather cladding is in excellent condition with all stitching intact.
Measuring 24" fully extended with ray shade, 10" closed, and weighing 900 grams, a good compact telescope for use on the move, and easy on the arms!

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC1003

WW2 Officer of the Watch Telescope by W Ottway

Click photo for larger images

A classic WW2 single draw Naval Officer of the Watch telescope, engraved 'W.OTTWAY & Co Ltd EALING, LONDON. 1941 No 2508 NPL 41. PATT. 373 No 1193' on the first draw.
Ottway were renowned for the quality of their telescopes, with each component numbered to the instrument. Along with the war department crowsfoot symbol, it also has the National Physical Laboratory testing logo for the year 1941.
The condition is excellent all round, and although the leather cladding appears to be a later replacement, it's well stitched and in keeping with the style of the telescope.
Measuring 16.5" closed and 24" fully extended with sliding ray shade, the powerful 40mm object lens delivers a really sharp, clear image of approx 18x , and this telescope is as practical today as when it was first made.
These telescopes were specially constructed for Naval use and are very robust, with nickel plated draw tube and fittings, and a swivel dust cover to protect the eyepiece.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC995

Single draw Naval telescope Lilley & Reynolds

Click photo for more images

This is a superb single draw Naval Officer of the Watch telescope engraved on the draw tube 'LILLEY & REYNOLDS Ltd, LONDON E.C.3' who were long standing instrument makers to the Admiralty, and originally established in 1880.
The condition is really exceptional as can be seen from the photos, the main barrel being covered in its original light tan leather stitched cladding, and the dent free draw tube and fittings are German nickel silver plated.
The image is very clear and sharp, with a magnification of around 20x through its 31mm objective lens, which is protected by a leather end cap, and an integral swivel dust cover for the eyepiece, all lenses including internal ones are free from any damage.
A classic Naval style telescope from the first half of the 20th century, it measures 18" closed, 25.5" fully extended with sliding sun shade.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC992

Click photo for larger images

This is a fine example of the famous, but increasingly hard to find Scout Regiment telescope. Adopted by the British Army in 1939, and 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. REGT. MK. II s, B.C Ltd & CO, O.S. 126. GA. 9502' on the first draw, it also has the military arrow.
It has good clear optics with a 2" objective lens, and the stitched leather cladding is also in sound condition.The brass draw tubes still have a smooth action, are all dent free and the eyepiece still has its original swivel dust cover which incorporates a green coloured light filter.
It also comes with its original separate hard leather case which apart from some minor scuffing is also in very good condition, with all stitching & buckles intact, plus a sound shoulder strap..
Measuring just over 10" closed and 32" fully extended including sunshade, it weighs 1.3kgs and 1.7kgs with its case, making it an ideal field telescope for stalking or spotting.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC991

Single draw 19th century Naval telescope by N & Z

Click photo for larger images

This is a classic English single draw ships telescope engraved 'NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA LONDON', on the first draw.
Dating to the latter part of the 19th century, this telescope is not only visually impressive with its German nickel silver draw tube & fittings, but also delivers a sharp, clear image of approximately 20x magnification through the 40mm objective lens.
It features a long tapering leather clad barrel which is still in good sound condition, and is a typical naval telescope which would have been used for general observations or reading signals between ships.
The overall cosmetic condition is very good, and the sliding draw has a smooth draw action with no dents. All lenses are in good order, although there is some minor separation of the clear balsaam in the objective lens doublet, but this is only cosmetic and in no way affects the image which really is crystal clear.
Dimensions, 25" closed, 33" fully extended with sliding sun shade, also has an internal swivel dust cover on the eyepiece, which is a later replacement.
A fully working single draw naval telescope that is as practical today as when it was first made, weighs just under 1kg.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC981

Vintage field telescope by Broadhurst Clarkson

Click photo for larger images

This is a superb condition 3 draw leather clad field telescope by Broadhurst Clarkson, which appears to have had very little use, retaining all of its non reflective coating on the 3 draw tubes. This particular model is called the 'Tourist', and was based on the old War Office Signalling model, and is ideal for stalking or spotting, being optically sound with a 42mm visible diameter objective lens producing a crystal clear image to a magnification of 25x.
The telescope is completely dent free, with a leather covered main barrel and all stitching and seams are intact, including the protective end caps.
Engraved ' Broadhurst Clarkson & Co Ltd, 63 Farringdon Road, London E.C' on the first draw, it
measures 10 1/4" closed, 31" open with sunshade extended, a quality telescope weighing just under 1.1 kg, and great to use!

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC987

Broadhurst Clarkson Britannic 2 draw field telescope

Click photo for more images

Vintage 2 draw field telescope, complete with its original leather covering and end caps. Engraved on the first draw ' Britannic, B.C & Co Ltd, Made in England' and made by Broadhurst Clarkson, this is a nice medium size field telescope ideal for stalking.
In very good condition all round with dent free tubes, the optics are also in good order, and the 40mm objective glass delivers a clear sharp image of around 20x magnification. The leather cladding is also in excellent condition with all stitching intact.
Measuring 24" fully extended with ray shade, 10" closed, and weighing just under 1kg, a very practical stalking or spotting telescope, for use on the move.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC978

Vintage Dollond 3 draw signalling telescope

Click photo for larger images

A fine example of a 3 draw Signalling telescope made by Dollond and engraved on first draw tube, "SIGNALLING" DOLLOND LONDON No 12043, it comes with its original two interchangeable lenses marked HIGH & LOW, which equate to approx 30x & 15x respectively.
It dates to the inter war period, probably around the 1930's, and is an impressive telescope, measuring 32" fully extended with sunshade, and 11" closed, the 50mm objective lens delivers a nice sharp image. In good condition all round, including the leather cladding, the draw tubes are dent free with a smooth draw action, and all lenses are in good undamaged condition. This is a substantial telescope complete with its accessories, which is still practical to use for todays field pursuits, weighing in at only 1350 grammes.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC969

Late 19th century 3 draw ships telescope

Click photo for larger images

This is a 3 draw leather clad ships telescope dating to around 1890, and is of blackened brass construction with its original black leather cladding still firmly in place on the object barrel. The lenses are also in very good order, free from chips, scratches, and produce a first class clear image.
Measuring over 31" fully extended, and 10" closed, it has a 40mm visible objective lens with sliding sunshade protected by a separate brass end cap, and a swivel internal dust cover for at the eyepiece end.
Although unsigned, this is a quality telescope in full working order with plenty of style, yet still practical for day to day use, and as can be seen from the photos in very good condition with only minimal paint loss to the draw tubes.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC959

2 draw field telescope by J H Steward London

Click photo for larger images

A vintage 2 draw field telescope in exceptional condition, complete with its original stitched leather covering and end caps, and engraved on the first draw ' Rifleman' J H Steward Ltd, London.
Although this is a relatively slim field telescope with a 30mm objective glass, it delivers a bright sharp image of around 20x magnification and a surprisingly wide field of view. J H Steward still have a strong association with rifle clubs in the UK, and this model was probably designed for use as a target spotting scope.
All lenses are in undamaged condition, and it's in very good condition throughout. The draw tubes still retain all of their original anti glare coating, and the draw action is firm but smooth which suggests it's probably had very little use.
Measuring 25" fully extended with screw on ray shade, 12" closed, and weighing only 0.7 kg makes this a super telescope for regular use, particularly on the move.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC957

3 draw field telescope by J H Steward London

Click photo for larger images

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, Made in England'
Measuring 31" extended, 11" closed, the 50mm objective glass delivers a bright sharp image of approximately 25x and focuses from around 10metres to infinity. It also 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 the protective end caps with all stitching intact
Originally made for use as a target spotting scope by rifle clubs, it's ideal for every day use, with all the attributes of a good stalking telescope, and weighing just under 1.7kgs.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC956

Leather clad marine telescope circa 1870

Click photo for larger images

A super example of a traditional 3 draw leather clad brass Naval general observation telescope, circa 1870 by W F Archer, an instrument maker working in Liverpool during the second half of the 19th century, and the first draw is engraved 'W.F.Archer, 43 Lord St, Liverpool'.
It measures 34" fully extended with sun shade, 11" closed, and sliding shutters at each end protect the 40mm objective lens and eyepiece.
An antique telescope in very good condition all round, the brass draw tubes are in good order with no dents and still retain a smooth action, the leather cladding is also in good order.
Optically very good, all lenses are undamaged, producing a clear high quality image of around 20x magnification. Suitable for either display or regular use, it's not often that one finds these telescopes in such good condition.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC933

3 Draw pancratic tube field telescope up to 40x magnification

Click photo for larger images

This is a superb condition 3 draw leather clad field telescope by Broadhurst Clarkson, 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 4 stages of 5x. This is a great advantage as objects not clearly seen can be readily observed with the 40x setting.
The telescope body is covered in stitched Brown Calf, with protective leather end caps and shoulder carry strap, and the three draw tubes are bronzed brass still retaining the majority of their anti glare coating.
Engraved 'Broadhurst Clarkson & Co Ltd, 63 Farringdon Road, London E.C', and measuring 10.5" closed, 34" fully drawn with sunshade extended, this is the largest version of the Pancratic Tourist range with an object glass visible diameter of 55mm. which delivers a first class, crystal clear image.
The condition of this telescope is exceptional as can be seen from the photos, is fully functional with clear undamaged lenses, and dent free tubes which have a smooth but firm draw action. It weighs just under 1.4kgs and is a great telescope to use for spotting or stalking.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC947

Dollond of London 4 draw telescope, early 1800's

Click photo for larger images

Its not often that one finds a telescope with great performance and a visually stunning appearance, this one fits the bill perfectly. Dating from around the early 1800's and possibly late 1700's, this is a classic mahogany barrel telescope by Dollond, and is signed 'DOLLOND LONDON 'on the first draw.
This impressive Georgian period telescope has 4 brass draw sections extending to 42" and is 11" closed. The object lens is 2" in diameter and there are four lenses in the segmented first draw section which unscrews into 3 pieces. The optics are in remarkably clean and damage free condition, the magnification is around 25-30x and the image clarity is first class.
The main barrel is of a dark polished mahogany, and although it has had several age splits which have been sympathetically repaired, it is in good sound condition. The brass sections slide smoothly, with just some normal usage wear and the occasional shallow dint here and there.
Mounted on an elegant brass tripod, which stands 16" high, this is not only a functioning antique telescope with pedigree, but also a decorative piece that will add style to any surrounding. A top quality instrument in good clean condition, from the top maker of the day.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC944

Click photo for larger images

Early 19th century telescopes are becoming increasingly difficult to find in good original condition, particularly bearing the name of any important makers. This particular telescope fits the bill perfectly, having been made around 1810 by William & Samuel Jones at 30 Holborn London, and engraved as such in copperplate script on the first draw.
Made for marine use, it has a mahogany barrel with three brass draw tubes, and still has its original green tint objective lens which is 45mm in diameter. All lenses are free from any chips, and the image is quite sharp, albeit with the distinctive green tint which was intended to reduce reflected glare from the sea. It is in very good cosmetic condition all round , with dent free tubes, measuring 29" fully extended and closes down to just over 9". A fine example of a genuine antique telescope which will continue to increase in value.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC928

19th century Day or Night naval telescope by Richardson London

Click photo for larger images

A superb example of a 2 draw mahogany & brass Naval telescope, circa 1830 - 1840, signed 'Richardson London, Day or Night'. There were a number of makers by the name of Richardson, working in London during the early 19th century, and its difficult to pinpoint the actual one, but I believe this may be George Richardson who was active around this time.
It measures an impressive 38" fully extended with sun shade, 15" closed, and sliding shutters at each end protect the 40mm objective lens and eyepiece. An antique telescope in very good, clean condition all round, the brass draw tubes are in good order with no visible dents and still retain a firm action, the mahogany barrel is also in very good cosmetic condition.
Optically very good, all lenses are undamaged, producing a clear image to around 20x magnification. A stylish telescope of a classic design, great for display or regular use!

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Overseas
	SOLD	SC868

Click photo for larger images

An unusually compact yet powerful 4 draw field telescope in great condition, complete with its original leather covering and end caps. Engraved on the eyepiece flange ' H J Redding & Co, Opticians, 3 Argyll Place London, W, Trade Mark Luzo'
The optics are in very good order, and the 38mm objective glass delivers a bright sharp image of 22x magnification. The general condition is excellent throughout, the draw tubes are dent free, and still retain all of their original black finish for avoiding reflective glare when used in field stalking. The leatherwork is also in good condition, with all stitching intact.
Measuring 25" fully extended with ray shade, 7" closed, and weighing under 700 gms, a nice light field telescope, yet with the same power as some of its larger counterparts.

Price	Status	Code	Ship UK	Abroad
	SOLD	SC833

Click photo for larger images

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

WW1 Officer of the Watch Naval telescope Hughes London

Click photo for larger images

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

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

Click photo for larger image

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

Click photo for larger images

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

Click photo for larger images

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

Click photo for larger images

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

Click photo for larger images

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

Forward to SOLD Telescopes page 2

Homepage Site Map