Antique Troughton & Simms London Brass Theodolite T.F. Wiesener Sydney c.1890
An exceptional and remarkably complete late 19th century precision surveying theodolite by the renowned London scientific instrument makers Troughton & Simms.
Dating to approximately c.1890, this substantial professional instrument is beautifully constructed in lacquered brass and incorporates a large telescope, vertical divided circle, horizontal graduated circle, finely divided silvered vernier scales, precision spirit levels and numerous fine adjustment mechanisms.
Clearly engraved:
TROUGHTON & SIMMS
LONDON
Troughton & Simms were among Britain's most important manufacturers of precision surveying, astronomical and scientific instruments during the 19th century, supplying equipment for major engineering, geographical and geodetic work.
Australian Provenance
Of particular interest is the surviving original paper label inside the fitted mahogany case for:
T. F. WIESENER
334 GEORGE ST
SYDNEY
Theodore Frederick Wiesener was a Sydney scientific instrument maker, optician and supplier who became associated with Troughton & Simms as an Australian agent around 1890.
This provides an excellent period Australian connection and strongly suggests the instrument was originally supplied for professional use in Australia.
A later label inside the case reads:
INSTRUMENT ENGINEERING CO.
SALES & SERVICE
BRISBANE
This provides further evidence of the instrument's long Australian working history.
Instrument
This is a sophisticated professional surveying theodolite rather than a simple surveyor's level.
It features a substantial brass telescope mounted through a large vertical divided circle, together with a horizontal graduated circle and finely divided silvered verniers for precise angular measurement.
Multiple spirit levels and fine adjustment controls allowed the instrument to be accurately levelled and positioned before observations were taken.
Also included is the impressive original detachable brass trough compass. This long compass was designed for use with the theodolite to establish magnetic north and take magnetic bearings during surveying work.
Original Fitted Case & Accessories
One of the most appealing aspects of this example is the extensive equipment surviving with it.
The original fitted mahogany travelling case retains numerous shaped wooden blocks and compartments together with a substantial selection of period accessories and fittings.
Included are the detachable trough compass, optical and viewing components, adjustment fittings and other surveying accessories as photographed.
The surviving period T. F. Wiesener Sydney instruction label remains attached inside the lid.
Condition
Very good antique condition considering its age and professional working history.
The brass retains considerable original aged lacquer with expected marks, scratches, oxidation, patination and surface wear consistent with genuine use over more than a century.
The silvered scales show expected age and wear while remaining clearly visible.
The mahogany case displays considerable age related wear, marks and patination. The original Wiesener paper label is aged, stained and partially deteriorated but remains an important part of the instrument's history.
The instrument has not been polished or cosmetically restored.
We have not professionally calibrated or tested the instrument for modern surveying accuracy and it is therefore offered as an important antique scientific instrument and collector's piece.
All components and accessories included in the sale are shown in the photographs.
Details
Maker: Troughton & Simms
Location: London, England
Date: Circa 1890
Instrument: Precision surveying theodolite
Construction: Lacquered brass
Vertical measurement: Large divided circle
Horizontal measurement: Graduated circle with silvered vernier scales
Compass: Detachable brass trough compass
Levels: Precision spirit levels
Case: Original fitted mahogany travelling case
Australian provenance: T. F. Wiesener, 334 George Street, Sydney
Later service provenance: Instrument Engineering Co., Brisbane
A superb piece of British precision engineering with an unusually interesting Australian history.
The combination of the Troughton & Simms name, sophisticated construction, original fitted case, trough compass, extensive accessories and T. F. Wiesener Sydney provenance makes this a particularly desirable survivor for collectors of antique scientific instruments, surveying equipment and Australian engineering history.
HNCO are not responsible for import duties, tariffs or customs charges. This is the buyers / importers responsibility.
_gsrx_vers_1736 (GS 9.9.5 (1736))
