A superb World War 2 Aircraft Identification Telescope by Cooke, Troughton and Simms of York, marked ‘Telescope Identification A.A. Mark III’, dated 1942 and bearing the maker’s emblem, British Military broad arrow (‘Crow’s Foot’) mark and serial number 3992. With original green paint, controls for orientation and elevation and - very unusually - its original tripod, it would have been used to track the height and bearing of enemy aircraft to assist in the accurate firing of anti-aircraft guns charged with protecting the British coastline during World War 2. Typically, such instruments were operated by Observer Corps and Woman’s ATS units, as shown in the second image (web-sourced). It is a substantial and heavily-engineered piece and a great relic of the Battle of Britain era. Mounted on its original tripod it makes for a fine display and conversation piece, standing just shy of 5ft tall. The instrument itself weighs in at a hefty 17.3kg (38lbs) and measures 82cm in width and 25cm high.

Condition: A magnificent display piece with a tremendous sense of history. Cosmetically excellent, it retains its original paint finish with only minor age-related wear. Mechanically, the horizontal control works correctly, the elevation adjustment requires encouragement, though the sight holds its angle once set. Optically, one sight is clear and focuses correctly, the other has some internal condensation obscuring the view and will require a careful strip down and clean if the instrument is to be used, other than just as a display piece. The tripod is structurally sound and retains its original paint with age related scuffs and scratches.

Overseas buyers: Please be aware that most sales, including those to mainland Europe, now attract import charges. Please contact me for a shipping quotation.