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ID #SA1213077
FOR SALE
£2,850
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A Fine W&s Jones Radial Theodolite
For sale by Hansord Antiques
for sale €3,335     $3,620
£2,850
Hansord Antiques

Hansord Antiques

Sellingantiques Verified Since Nov 2016
Browse dealers 139 items
  • About Us
    Furniture, works of art,globes ,and scientific instruments
  • Trade Associations
    Hansord Antiques is a registered member of LAPADA  BADA  CINOA
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Id #SA1213077
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A Fine W&s Jones Radial Theodolite

19th century
For Sale by Hansord Antiques
Description

A very original example of an early 19th century radial theodolite by W & S Jones, London. In the original mahogany case

Very clean and good lacquer along with platinum scales

Declaration

Hansord Antiques has dated this Antique Brass Radial Theodolite to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Reference
SA1213077
Dealers Internal Reference
SKU00001424
Dealers Notes

Our stock includes early oak and walnut furniture from the 18th century, as well as more formal pieces from the Georgian period. Clocks, barometers and globes are complemented by Colonial cabinets, furniture and early arms. Their scientific instruments, which include early microscopes, telescopes and equipment such as sextants, provide a fascinating insight into the evolution of technology, whilst demonstrating fine artistry and craftsmanship. One of Hansord’s many exhibitions was entitled ‘From simplicity to complexity with a little eccentricity’ and this continues to be the guiding mantra behind their collection today.

Description
A very original example of an early 19th century radial theodolite by W & S Jones, London. In the original mahogany case

Very clean and good lacquer along with platinum scales

Date of Manufacture

Hansord Antiques has dated this Antique Brass Radial Theodolite to the 19th Century.

Reference Numbers
Sellingantiques Ref
SA1213077
Dealers Internal Ref
SKU00001424
Hansord Antiques
Hansord Antiques
Sellingantiques verified Since Nov 2016

Furniture, works of art,globes ,and scientific instruments

Dealer Profile

You can view the stock and full dealer information on the Hansord Antiques Profile Page

Trade Associations

Hansord Antiques is a registered member of LAPADA  BADA  CINOA

PDF SHARE
SAVE
An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate.
1 / 6
Archive I An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate.

A Fine W&s Jones Radial Theodolite

Archive II An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate. View II
Archive III An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate. View III
Archive IV An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate. View IV
Archive V An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate. View V
Archive VI An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate. View VI
Enlarged Archival View
Hansord Antiques

Hansord Antiques
Telephone 07831 183511
Location
Nr Lincoln
Lincolnshire
United Kingdom

By appointment only.
Dealer Profile Page sellingantiques.co.uk/hansordantiques
Verified Since Nov 2016
Items For Sale 139
Items Sold 299
Hansord Antiques
Hansord Antiques
Verified Since Nov 2016
View Dealer Info
Location: Nr Lincoln, Lincolnshire, United Kingdom, , By appointment only.
Profile: sellingantiques.co.uk/hansordantiques
Verified
Nov 2016
For Sale
139
Sold
299
An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate.
A FINE W&S JONES RADIAL THEODOLITE
Ref: SA1213077
An antique brass radial theodolite featuring an adjustable telescope mounted above a compass dial, spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal plate.
Detail View 1
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Archival Detail

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Cataloguer’s note

Written by Sellingantiques from the dealer’s photographs and listing
  • ObjectScientific Instruments
  • Period19th century
  • StyleGeorgian
  • MaterialBrass, Glass, Silvered Metal
  • ColourWarm Brass
  • MotifsTelescope tube, spirit level vial, graduated scale plate, circular compass housing

This early 19th-century Georgian radial theodolite originates from the London workshop of W & S Jones, representing a refined example of precision scientific engineering. Constructed predominantly from warm brass with glass and silvered metal components, the instrument displays clean surfaces retaining their original lacquer. Distinct structural elements include a long horizontal telescope tube fitted above a central compass dial, parallel spirit level vials, and a graduated horizontal scale plate mounted on a tiered base with leveling screws. Subtle signs of age appear across the metallic surfaces, enhancing its historic character without detracting from the crisp detailing of the engraved scales and mechanical joints. Standing approximately 35 cm in height, the theodolite functions as a distinguished decorative object suited for display upon an office desk or within a study library. Its intricate mechanical geometry complements traditional interior schemes, bringing an authentic touch of scientific history to a residential setting. Placed amongst books or works of art, the instrument provides an engaging focal point that celebrates historic cartography and field surveying tools.

FAQs

A radial theodolite is a precision optical instrument engineered for measuring both horizontal and vertical angles in surveying and triangulation. Incorporating a sighting telescope, spirit levels, and graduated scales, these instruments enabled land surveyors and engineers to map terrain with accurate angular calculations during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Historically, scientific instrument makers constructed theodolites primarily from cast and machined brass due to its stability, corrosion resistance, and non-magnetic properties. Component parts often feature silvered scale plates for legibility, glass optics, liquid-filled level vials, and steel screws or pivots.

Authentic pieces from this period typically feature engraved maker signatures on the base or horizontal plate, fine thread-milled adjusting screws, and hand-divided vernier scales. Age-appropriate surface oxidisation, lacquer wear, and hand-machined assembly marks distinguish period originals from modern reproductions.

Precision instruments like brass theodolites serve as sculptural focal points when displayed on dark timber bookcases, executive office desks, or sideboard tops. Pairing them with framed historical maps, leather-bound books, and warm lighting highlights their mechanical detailing within traditional or industrial interior schemes.

Maintain brass instruments by dusting regularly with a soft, lint-free cloth, avoiding abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals that strip original lacquer or patination. Optics and glass level vials should be gently cleaned with dry lens paper, and movement mechanisms should remain unlubricated unless restored by a specialist horologist or instrument conservator.
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