A London-made World War 1 era heavily-engineered all-brass World War 1 era Director No 5 Mark 1 gun sighting theodolite dated 1917, as originally used by the British Army for setting the elevation and angle of heavy artillery in the battlefield. It is presented complete with original tripod and wooden transit case marked ‘232B Aldershot’, attributing it to the Aldershot Garrison in the South East of England. The instrument measures 35cm long and 22cm high, standing 1.5m high when mounted on the tripod. It is an impressive display and conversation piece that can be used just like a normal telescope - having an upright rather than an inverted image - as is the case with normal theodolites.

Both the instrument and case bear their original military marks, including the British military broad arrow or '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 and the serial number 3447. During peacetime, E R Watts & Sons were makers of fine quality theodolites and other surveying instruments. Like many other manufacturers, during the Great War they adapted their expertise and resources to support the war effort, making instruments such as gun sights, heliographs, marching compasses etc.

With so many of these instruments having been stripped and polished back to the bare brass, it is great to find one that retains a degree of authenticity with its original paintwork, and surviving in such good condition - providing a real slice of living history! Take a look through the eyepiece and imagine what the original operators might have seen more than 100 years ago!

Condition: The instrument survives in excellent ex-service condition, complete and fully functioning. There are minor scuffs and scratches to the paintwork, consistent with age and use. The optics are good. The fitted case is in good order, retaining original paint and military marks, with just a few scuffs and light scratches. The tripod is extremely solid and in good condition.

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