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E.r. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925
Sold by Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd
sold SA1161699
Sorry, but this item has been sold.
Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd

Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd

Sellingantiques Verified Since Apr 2025
Browse dealers 74 items
  • About Us
    Specialists in fine antique furniture, decorative arts & collectables
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Id #SA1161699
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E.r. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925

1900 - 1920
Sold 26 August 2025 · Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd
This “E.r. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925” found a buyer.

It was listed by Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd. Sold pieces stay on Sellingantiques as a record of what has passed through, and the next one is rarely far away.

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Description

E.R. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925

A good early 20th century theodolite by E.R. Watts & Son, London, serial number 10153 and dated March 1925.

The instrument is finished in black enamel with lacquered brass fittings and is housed in its original fitted mahogany case with dovetailed joints, brass latches, and interior compartments. Labels to the interior include the maker’s mark and a printed notice dated March 1925. The original spirit level bottle is still present.

The theodolite shows surface wear and paint loss consistent with use, but remains complete and unrestored. The case retains a warm patina and shows marks and wear commensurate with age, including a torn leather strap.

A well-made and authentic example from a respected London maker.

Dimensions:

Case: 36 cm wide x 16 cm deep x 18 cm high

Condition:

Good original condition with age-related wear. Sold as a collector’s item.

Physical Dimensions
Height
36cm (14.17")
Width
18cm (7.09")
Depth
16cm (6.30")
Declaration

Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd has dated this Vintage Brass Theodolite to the 1920s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1161699
Dealers Notes

All items offered by Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd are carefully selected for their authenticity, decorative appeal, and period character. We specialise in antique and vintage pieces sourced with a knowledgeable eye, and we aim to provide accurate descriptions and detailed photographs for every item.

Our stock is available to view by appointment at our Worcester showrooms, and we are happy to provide further information or additional images on request.

We offer both national and international delivery, and can arrange professional packing or assisted delivery where appropriate.

We strive to make the buying process as straightforward and personal as possible — whether you're a private collector, interior designer, or trade client.

Description
E.R. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925

A good early 20th century theodolite by E.R. Watts & Son, London, serial number 10153 and dated March 1925.

“
The instrument is finished in black enamel with lacquered brass fittings and is housed in its original fitted mahogany case with dovetailed joints, brass latches, and interior compartments.
Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd

Labels to the interior include the maker’s mark and a printed notice dated March 1925. The original spirit level bottle is still present.

fig 1. A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount.
fig 1. E.r. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925

The theodolite shows surface wear and paint loss consistent with use, but remains complete and unrestored. The case retains a warm patina and shows marks and wear commensurate with age, including a torn leather strap.

fig 2. A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount.
fig 2. E.r. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925

A well-made and authentic example from a respected London maker.

Dimensions:

Case: 36 cm wide x 16 cm deep x 18 cm high

Condition:

Good original condition with age-related wear. Sold as a collector’s item.

Height
36cm (14.17")
Width
18cm (7.09")
Depth
16cm (6.30")
Date of Manufacture

Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd has dated this Vintage Brass Theodolite to the 1920s.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1161699
Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd
Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd
Sellingantiques verified Since Apr 2025

Specialists in fine antique furniture, decorative arts & collectables

Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd Profile Page

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A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. SOLD6+ MONTHS AGO
1 / 14
Archive I A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. SOLD6+ MONTHS AGO

E.r. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925

Archive II A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View II
Archive III A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View III
Archive IV A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View IV
Archive V A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View V
Archive VI A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View VI
Archive VII A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View VII
Archive VIII A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View VIII
Archive IX A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View IX
Archive X A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View X
Archive XI A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View XI
Archive XII A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View XII
Archive XIII A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View XIII
Archive XIV A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount. View XIV
Enlarged Archival View
Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd

Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd
Telephone 01905 799928
Location
50 Barbourne Road
Worcester
Worcestershire
WR1 1JA
United Kingdom
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/treasuretroveworcester
Verified Since Apr 2025
Items For Sale 74
Items Sold 76
Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd
Treasure Trove Worcester Ltd
Verified Since Apr 2025
View Dealer Info
Location: 50 Barbourne Road, Worcester, Worcestershire, WR1 1JA, United Kingdom
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/treasuretroveworcester
Verified
Apr 2025
For Sale
74
Sold
76
A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount.
E.R. Watts & Son Theodolite in Original Case – Dated 1925
Ref: SA1161699
A close-up studio shot of a vintage black enamelled and polished brass theodolite showing adjustment knobs and a threaded mount.
Detail View 1
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Detail View 3
Detail View 4
Detail View 5
Detail View 6
Detail View 7
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Archival Detail

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectScientific Instrument
  • Period1900 - 1920
  • StyleIndustrial
  • MaterialBrass, Enamelled Iron, Glass
  • ColourBlack and Brass
  • MotifsKnurled adjustment knobs, Threaded mounting base, Enamelled metal housing, Graduated optical circles
  • SizeH 36 cm (14 in) x W 18 cm (7 in) x D 16 cm (6 in)

FAQs

Early twentieth-century theodolites were precision instruments utilised by surveyors, engineers, and cartographers for measuring horizontal and vertical angles in land surveying and construction. Manufacturers such as E.R. Watts & Son became renowned for producing robust, highly accurate optical instruments that met the growing infrastructural demands of the era.

These instruments were predominantly constructed from heavy-duty brass for internal gears, dials, and fittings to prevent corrosion and ensure precision, paired with cast iron or enamelled aluminium outer bodies for structural stability. Glass optics were ground for telescopes, and components were frequently housed in fitted wooden transit boxes.

Authenticity is typically verified by makers marks, serial numbers, and patents engraved onto the metal casing or spirit levels. Genuine period pieces exhibit characteristic wear, such as aged lacquer, oxidisation on the brass surfaces, and hand-engraved dial graduations rather than modern printed markings.

An antique theodolite makes a striking sculptural focal point when displayed on a bookshelf, desk, or mantelpiece, complementing industrial, gentlemans library, or eclectic design schemes. Its intricate mechanical parts and contrasting metal finishes add texture and a sense of historic curiosity to modern spaces.

Preservation involves keeping the instrument in a stable, dry environment away from direct sunlight and high humidity to prevent further corrosion. Metal surfaces should only be dusted gently with a soft, dry microfibre cloth, avoiding commercial brass polishes that can strip away authentic historical patina and factory finishes.
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