A theodolite is an instrument for measuring both horizontal and vertical angles, as used in triangulation networks. It is a key tool in surveying and engineering work, but theodolites have been adapted for other specialized purposes in fields like meteorology and rocket launch technology. A modern theodolite consists of a telescope mounted movably within two perpendicular axes, the horizontal or trunnion axis, and the vertical axis. When the telescope is pointed at a desired object, the angle of each of these axes can be measured with great precision, typically on the scale of arcseconds.

Another of our top quality, highly accurate theodolites from our collection.  Described as suitable for triangulation, precise traversing, tacheometry, and astronomical observation.  Recommended for all classes of surveying up to and including secondary surveys.  The micrometer scales read to single seconds.

The slightly earlier 1955 version of the No. 2 cost £363.00 when originally made (this is when a skilled worker was paid around £10 a week).

It is graduated in degrees rather than mils. The telescope image is inverted - as is normally the case with most of these early high quality theodolites. At that time it was easier to achieve good optical quality in a short telescope by having an inverted image, as the optics involved were simpler. There are also a couple of pages of instructions on its use, which I'll include in the sale.

This rarely seen (the No.1 is far more common - see http://www.gmat.unsw.edu.au/currentstudents/ug/projects/f_pall/html/t8.html
for full information on that very similar model) theodolite is presented in very good used condition. It has a tiny starting price and a low reserve for such a unique & beautiful instrument. If you are an international bidder and wondering why the P&P is so high - this theodolite is over 10 kilos in weight and it is simply not cheap to send such heavy items overseas!