A superb and unusually large antique surveyors level or theodolite from the workshops of William Ford Stanley, Great Turnstile, London. I've sold many of these over the years but rarely have I come any of such impressive proportions, with this example measuring 50cm in length (focusing extended) and standing 24cm high; and heavily engineered weighing in at a hefty 5.2Kg (11.5lbs). The instrument is nicely engraved to one side with the maker's name and delivers a bright image with beautifully crisp optics. It likely dates to around 1920.

William Ford Stanley was a prolific inventor and engineer who began trading in 1854 from premises at Great Turnstile, Holborn, London - a part of the capital that became a hive for scientific instrument makers. Stanley's company gained a worldwide reputation for the quality of its instruments, which included mathematical and drawing instruments, theodolites and surveying instruments, microscopes, telescopes, electrical instruments etc.

Condition: A great survivor! This instrument survives in fabulous condition and because of its size makes for a great display piece. Its lenses are clear, free from chips, cracks, haze and fungus but with some dust to the inner optics. Focusing is fully operational, without slippage to the rack and pinion. The brasswork is generally excellent with slight tarnishing and oxidation in places.