Description
Antique 4-draw brass telescope / spyglass, probably dating from the late 19th to early 20th century.
The telescope features a traditional brass construction with four extending draw sections, a reddish-brown covered main body section, an extendable brass sunshade, and a 30mm objective lens.
Objective lens diameter: approximately 30mm.
The telescope extends to a substantial length (480mm including sunshade) for use and collapses down to a much more compact size (140mm) for storage or carrying. Telescope weight: 280g
Optical condition:
The telescope has been tested and is capable of producing a clear image when focused on a distant object.
The eyepiece lens has two visible crack lines, as shown clearly in the photographs. Despite this, the cracks do not appear to noticeably affect normal image viewing when the telescope is focused on a distant object.
There are also some small chips around the outer edge of the objective lens. These are mainly around the perimeter and, during testing, do not appear to noticeably reduce the image performance of the telescope.
The remaining optical surfaces remain generally clean for the age.
Mechanical condition:
All four brass draw sections extend and retract as intended. Focusing is achieved by adjusting the draw tubes in the usual manner.
Cosmetic condition:
The brass has developed an attractive aged patina, with tarnishing, surface marks, scratches and general wear consistent with considerable age and use. The reddish-brown body covering also shows age-related wear.
The built-in rotating eyepiece cover is functioning well.
No obvious maker’s name or identifying engraving has been found, so the exact manufacturer and date are unknown. Based on the style and construction, the telescope is believed to date approximately from the late 19th to early 20th century.
Please study all photographs carefully, particularly the close-up images of the cracked eyepiece lens and the small chips around the objective lens, as these form an important part of the condition description.
Despite the noted optical issues, the telescope remains usable and produces a clear image when viewing distant objects.
An attractive antique optical instrument suitable for a collection of telescopes, scientific instruments, maritime antiques or decorative brassware.
