A superb and heavily-engineered World War 1 era (1914-18) Director No 5 Mark 1 artillery gun sighting theodolite, presented in excellent, totally original ex-service condition and complete with fitted transit case and tripod stand. Such instruments were used by the British Army during World War 1 for setting the elevation and angle of heavy weaponry. Approximately 35cm long and 22cm high, it stands 1.5m high when affixed to its original tripod stand. Both the instrument and case retain their original military marks, including the British military broad arrow (Crow's Foot) mark. Engraved to the foot of the instrument is the maker's name - E R Watts of London - together with its date of manufacture, 1916, and serial number 983. During peacetime, E R Watts & Sons were makers of fine quality theodolites and other surveyors instruments but like many other companies throughout Britain, following the outbreak of World War 1 they harnessed the skills of their workforce to support the war effort, making instruments such as gun sights, heliographs, marching compasses, clinometers etc.

The instrument makes for an interesting display and conversation piece which - unlike conventional theodolites - provides an upright (rather than inverted) image, allowing it to be used just like a normal telescope. With so many of these instruments having been stripped and polished back to the bare brass, it is nice to find one that retains its original livery and survives in such remarkable condition - providing a real slice of living history! Take a look through the sight and spare a thought for the scenes witnessed by the original operator more than 100 years ago!

Condition: The instrument is complete and in very good condition with original paint and very good optics, including spare eyepiece. Spirit levels all intact. Focusing operational. Minor scuffs, scratches and localised paint losses with light oxidation to the lacquered brass components, all consistent with age and use. Rubber eyecap quite dry with some splits and losses, as shown. Case missing its strap but otherwise in good condition. Internally, the felt lining is quite worn. The case has its original label and makers plate. As is common, the serial numbers to instrument and case are mismatched. The tripod is in very good order, but with the usual light oxidation to the metal components. The tripod retains its original leather strap

Overseas buyers: Please contact me for a shipping quotation. Please note that all international shipments, including those in mainland Europe, now attract import duty.