PLEASE NOTE THAT I WILL BE AWAY UNTIL 3 MARCH. NO ORDERS WILL BE PROCESSED UNTIL MY RETURN.

A superb 19th Century 5" transit theodolite by Robert Street & Co of 39, Commercial Road, Lambeth, London. Robert was the son of Thomas Street, also an optician and scientific instrument maker of the same address from 1825 onwards. The instrument stands 33cm high and the sight is 39cm when the longer of the three eyepieces is fitted. The 3" silvered compass dial is nicely engraved "R W Street, Commercial Rd, Lambeth, London" and is subdivided into intercardinal directions and 360 degrees of a circle. The instrument comes complete with original fitted case.

Condition: The instrument survives in excellent condition, particularly given its 160 years or so of age. The optics are in good order, free from haze, chips and cracks or fungus. The focusing operates correctly, without slippage to the rack and pinion. The two smaller eyepieces give a particularly bright and crisp image. The brasswork retains its original japanned finish with light wear, minor surface scratches and oxidation. The silvered brass compass is in very good order and the compass needle and locking mechanism - for safe transit - operates correctly. Both spirit levels are intact. The transit case is in good order, with what looks to be the original French Polish, retaining a deep colour and good shine. There is a minor shrinkage split to the rear of the lid. Both swing catches are absent. The case comes complete with working lock and key.