DANIEL BROWN TELESCOPE

A superb Victorian floorstanding telescope as originally retailed by Daniel Brown Widdifield of Boston, USA, together with its original fitted case, period tripod stand and a range of fittings including six eyepieces, library stand and lens cover. As can be seen in the first image (I am 6ft tall) this is a relatively large example, measuring 165cm (65") long, standing 180cm (71") high (in the horizontal position - considerably higher when elevated) and with a 8cm (3") diameter objective lens. Given it's height, it is clearly intended for looking upwards - i.e. for astronomical use, with four of the objectives being heavily shaded, most likely for solar observation. Elevation and fine focusing are both adjusted by rack and pinion, achieved by turning the thumbscrews to the right. The instrument is simply engraved 'Widdifield & Co, Boston'.

Daniel Widdifield (1800-1862), opticians, operated from premises at 141 Washington Street, Boston and sold a a variety of optical and scientific equipment. The company is known to have collaborated with a number of prominent French makers, including Bardou et Fils of Paris.

Condition: At around 140 years old, this telescope is a great survivor! It remains in full working order, with no slippage to the rack and pinion. The brasswork is generally excellent with just a few very minor indentations, scuffs, scratches and localised tarnishing/oxidation. It has been polished. With the exception of one cracked eyepiece, the optics look to be good but would benefit from a careful clean. Otherwise, the image is bright and crisp. The tripod is in good order. The case has a longitudinal split, as shown.

SOLD - but please visit my online shop for similar items.