patented-antiques.com antique survey transits solar instruments

Keuffel & Esser / K & E Transits

K & E / Keuffel & Esser # 5081 1/2 Engineers Mining Transit w/ 5Aux Scope & Attachments

K & E / Keuffel & Esser # 5081 1/2 Engineers Mining Transit w/ Aux Scope / Tripod & Attachments in Original Box This is a very nice condition Engineer's Mining Transit. It is in near mint original condition. The black crinkle finish is 95% or better and near pristine noting just a few minor scuffs. It looks to have seen little use. All motions operate smoothly. The silvered compass face is flawless, and the 3 1/2" Gold compass needle swings north. Cross hairs are present in both scopes. 1 white plastic vernier scale cover is missing. NO other apologies. The nice collapsible leg tripod is included as well.

The serial # 124,320 is found on the box, the horizontal plate of the instrument and is on the second scope as well.  That dates this mining transit from 1952 according to the charts available at www.surveyhistory.org. The K & E marked loupe, plumb bob, oiler and more are all present. Note how the plumb bob comes apart and is made to hold a second tip. An unusual feature that is not seen very often.

Mining transits were developed for use in mines or places where the user would need to shoot a line where the plate would be in the way. The scope could be mounted on either the top over the main scope, or on the outboard side. The counterweight is also present.

This graphic, rare & desirable surveying instrument will display very nicely in a mining related collection or a number of other settings.   Very Nice!!

SR-KE-5081-HF

Fine + . . . . . . $1750.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

K & E / Keuffel & Esser c. 1919 # 5070 Engineers Mountain & Mining Transit

K & E / Keuffel & Esser c. 1919 # 5074 Engineers Mountain & Mining Transit This model and style transit with its unusual 3 screw leveling base is very rare. In catalogs it gets an asterisk with explanation that it is only available through special order. K & E called this style of transit off as "Extra Fine".& The serial # is 38611 dating it from 1920 or so. The tag on the door says the needle is calibrated for Buenos Aries Argentina. There is a tag on the box that also indicates it came from South America. Note that it has 2 auxiliary magnifiers to allow for a more precise reading of the extra fine scales on the different vernier scales.

All motions and thumbscrews operate smoothly. The silvered compass face is near flawless, and the 3 3/4" compass needle swings north. The black oxidized finish is mostly fine. All three level bubbles are good and appear to be original. The optics are clear and good.

There are a few minor apologies. The door on the box has been remounted on the opposite side of the opening. Not sure why and no apparent reason. There is one vertical and 2 horizontal crosshairs. One crosshair above the center horizontal crosshair is broken or unattached. Also, the protective outer cover or guard for the vertical circle / vernier scale is broken. I see no damage to the wheel itself. Finally, there is a small dent on the end of the scope as pictured.

This rare & desirable surveying instrument will be a highlight of the well rounded surveying instrument collection and will display very nicely in any number of settings.

ARG-KE-5074

Good + . . . . . . $795.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

W. & L. E. Gurley Transits

W. & L. E. Gurley Light Mountain Solar Transit w/ Burt Patent Solar Attachment in Original Box This c. 1880s W. & L. E. Gurley Solar Transit is in fine overall condition. W. & L. E. Gurley was located in Troy New York and their reputation for the manufacture of quality surveying related instruments was unsurpassed. Having no serial # dates it from before 1908. The straight leg A standards indicate it dates from the 1880s. The design of the Burt Attachment confirms that as well.

Solar Transits are one of the most sought after and desirable of all surveying related instruments developed or offered. They are very graphic and make for great display pieces.

Solar instruments were developed for use in the field to facilitate finding ones location using the sun and horizon much as seamen would do with sextants or octants. Their use was made necessary where ore deposits would adversely affect the accuracy of a regular compass. Their use enabled the user to find a true reference or location using the horizon and the position of the sun instead of the standard methods employing just the compass.

All motions operate smoothly. The compass face is nice and the compass needle swings north. Cross hairs are present. The Burt attachment is clearly marked W. & L. E. Gurley and the 1867 patent date. Also includes is the original leather covered box and collapsible leg tripod. There is a Lietz repair tag from 1946 outlining the minor repairs and adjustments performed. It looks to have seen little or no use after that.

This W. & L. E. Gurley Solar Transit is one of the most striking and graphic of forms of surveying instrument that are available not to mention one of the most avidly sought. Rarely seen or offered for sale one of these instruments will move your collection to the head of the line.

ALA-G-SOLAR

Fine . . . . . . . $3275.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

W. & L. E. Gurley Light Mountain Transit This c. 1912 W. & L. E. Gurley Transit is in good overall condition. The contrasting finishes have a nice look and show appropriate wear from use. All motions operate smoothly. The compass face is nice and the compass needle swings north. Cross hairs are present.

The leather covered box is missing the top leather cover, a common situation. The box is a proper size and era light mountain box, but it seems to have been swapped from another instrument as the interior is set up for a solar instrument with places for the Burt Attachment, the aux level, the adjusting bar, etc. This W. & L. E. Gurley transit is not set up for those attachments and so was swapped to this box at some point.

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TIDD-G-LM-1912

Good + . . . . . . . $595.00

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W. & L. E. Gurley Special Order "Made Expressly For" Survey Transit This unusual W. & L. E. Gurley Transit is closest in size and form to a Light Mountain size instrument. It has several features different from the norm. Most notably it is engraved on the compass face, under the glass, "Made Expressly For Jas H. Blackburn" & "El Paso De Robles Cal." A quick Google search turns up he owned a large sheep ranch in San Luis Obispo Co. during the proper time frame of late 19th century.

The scope is 8" long. The box is smaller than the typical leather covered Light Mountain Box. This is how I first noticed this transit was a different size as it looks so much like a typical Light Mountain. The half circle on the side @ 6" dia. is larger than typical. The fine adjusts are a bit different, heavier duty, as well.

It is in pretty nice overall condition. All motions are free, optics are good, good bubbles, crosshairs, etc. The tripod mount size is 3.625" x 18 TPI, and I have a kind of beat up tripod that size listed below if you want it displayed on a tripod.

TIDD-GTRAN-ROBLES

Good + . . . . . . $995.00 SOLD!!

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Transits / Theodolites by
Young / Buff & Buff / Berger / Dietzgen / Lietz & Misc. Makers

Lietz Engineers Mining Transit This Lietz Mining Transit is a large and commanding instrument in good overall condition. The name info is under the glass below the north point on the compass face. The serial # is 13677. The A. Lietz Co. of San Francisco stopped making instruments around the beginning of WWII and opened up shop shortly before the turn of the century. This transit would date from some point before that and after the turn of the century. Note how the ends of the scope axles have threaded caps for mounting a second scope and counterweight there. Below the plate is a swinging arm that would hold magnifiers for reading the vernier plate scales. Those magnifiers are missing. The optics are OK, and crosshairs present. There is no box. A nice display piece.

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TIDD-L-MINE

Good . . . . . . . $395.00

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Lietz Surveyor's Mining Transit This Lietz Mining Transit is a large and commanding instrument in good overall condition. The A. Lietz Co. of San Francisco stopped making instruments around the beginning of WWII and opened up shop shortly before the turn of the century.The name info is under the glass below the north point on the compass face. The serial # is 1X026.

This transit would date from some point beforethe beginning of WWII and after the turn of the century. Note how the ends of the scope axles have threaded caps for mounting a second scope and counterweight on the opposite side. The black finish is 90% or better. The optics are OK, and crosshairs present. The box is present and nice. A nice display piece.

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TIDD-LMINE-2

Good + . . . . . . $495.00

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Bausch & Lomb Surveying Transit Bausch & Lomb is most famous for their line of binoculars and other optics but ventured in to the surveying instrument field after George N. Saegmuller, the inventor of the solar attachment that bears his name, joined the company in 1905. They stopped making instruments for the general public during WWI so they were not in the surveying instrument business for long. There is a nice history on the company at the SurveyHistory.org site.

This transit has the logo the company adopted after 1907 and dates from right around that time period. The transit comes in the proper original box. It is a large, heavy, and overall nice condition piece. All motions are free, optics OK but not really crisp, good bubbles, crosshairs, etc. Box is nice.

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TIDD-BL-TRAN

Good + . . . . . . $395.00

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G. W. Wilson Concord New Hampshire c. 1877 Transit Transit

G. W. Wilson Concord New Hampshire c. 1877 Transit This unusual Engineer size Surveying transit is in very nice condition. Smarts book has a short Bio on G. W. Wilson, an early New England maker, but scant other info comes up with Google searches. He is not in the Smithsonian 's list of makers, nor listed in the Compass Makers Directory.

Note the very unusual pillar style round standards. They have a great look and are a near unique feature for transits. All the bubbles are good. Compass points north and the compass face is nicely engraved. Nice even patina. Also included is the correct and proper taper leg tripod (not pictured). You must view the pics to see how nice and different this instrument is from the typical instruments from this era. The compass is clearly marked with the maker name and location as well as the 1877 date. A nice piece that will fi into many different collections.

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TMK-WILSON-T

Good + . . . . . . . $1995.00

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Breithaupt / Kassel Mining Suspension Theodolite in Box This unusual instrument is NOS never been used. It appears it was sold through K & E and dates from the 70's. There is a translated set of instructions for use and a K & E bulletin announcing their carrying the product is included. Basically it is a theodolite designed to be hung upside down from preset points installed in mines or tunnels.

I found another in a collection with a good description http://www.sage.unsw.edu.au/currentstudents/ug/projects/f_pall/html/t11.html. I did not do a good job of showing the knuckle joint like attachment on the bottom that one would use to mount it from the ceiling of the mine or tunnel. Different, Unusual, and Very Nice!!

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SR-DOWN-MINE

Fine . . . . . . $695.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Japanese WWII Era TOKO Theodolite / Transit Marked on scope with name and power info. It is in good overall condition. Crisp optics, crosshairs present. Good bubbles. All motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 10" long. The box is solid with Japanese writing on it. Some empty spots on the sliding base for small accessories. Auxiliary compass sets on top. Nice!!

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TIDD-JAP-TRAN

Good + . . . . . $295.00

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J. C. Sala Transit J. C. Sala's Working dates are from the 1891 to 1916. He operated out of San Francisco and advertised himself as the successor to John Roach the well known California instrument maker who he had worked for.

The serial # is 1031. The overall cosmetic condition is fine with original finishes. It is a small light mountain or preliminary size w/ a 9" scope. There is no box. A very nice display piece.

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AMN-SALA

Good + . . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!

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E. G. Soltmann N.Y. "Monarch" Transit E. G. Soltmann does not show up as a maker in any of the references I have or at sites on the internet. There are vague references to him being in business as a supplier of Drafting and Engineering supplies. Under the glass is the E. G. Soltmann name, N.Y. location, and "Monarch" in quotes Transit.

The serial # is 199. The overall cosmetic condition is fine with original finishes. It is a small light mountain or preliminary size instrument w/ a 9" scope. The needle lock is not working. The rest all seems to be OK with good optics. There is no box. A very nice display piece.

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AMN-SOLT

Good + . . . . . $495.00 SOLD!!

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William Young / Maker Philadelphia Transit A very early and nice example of William Young's work. Young is credited with producing the first surveying instruments known as transits in the 1830s. The serial # of this transit is 3859. The Smithsonian has a very similar instrument in their collection with a serial # in the three thousands that they date as being from the 1850s.

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AH-YOUNG-T

Good + . . . . . $695.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

William Young ALUMINUM Transit A unusual and nice example of William Young's work. Young is credited with producing the first surveying instruments known as transits in the 1830s. The serial # of this transit is in the 8000s thus dating it from shortly after the turn of the century and before they sold out to K & E in 1918 or so. The use of Aluminum in surveying instruments, because of the light weight, is quite unusual on instruments this early. It was still a relatively new material to work with and had drawbacks in use. As can be seen parts are in brass as well, and the contrasting materials, and finishes give it a very pleasing look.

The transit has been cleaned and adjusted. The motions are OK noting stiffness in the main plate vernier. Good optics w/ crosshairs. It comes in the original box. The fixed leg wooden tripod, with an Aluminum head is included as well.

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ALA-YOUNG-AT

Good + . . . . . $1095.00

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Solar & Mining Attachments
for Architects, Engineers, & Surveyor's Transits
& Related Surveying Instruments

Buff & Berger Pearson Patent Solar Attachment

Buff & Berger's Pearson Patent Solar Attachment The Buff & Berger partnership first appeared in the 1870's and was dissolved in 1898 when both principals opened firms under their own names with the addition of other family members. Hence the later instrument maker names Berger & Sons, and Buff & Buff. That would date this rare Buff & Berger solar attachment as pre 1898.

Pearson was first granted the patent for this telescopic solar attachment in 1875, and Buff & Berger offered an improved version after 1878. Also note the handwritten instructions that are glued into the top of the box. Faded but legible.

Solar attachments were developed for use in the field to facilitate finding ones location using the sun and horizon much as seafarers would do with sextants or octants. Their use was made necessary when there was a danger of ore deposits affecting the accuracy of a magnetic compass. Each surveying instrument maker developed or adapted one or more different designs for use on their instruments. Other patented versions of solar attachments were named after the inventor such as Burt, Smith, Saegmuller, and others.

A nice example of a rare piece that will make an otherwise standard looking transit into a rare and desirable solar instrument that will display well.

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NET-BB-SA

Good + . . . . . . $1750.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Surveying / Surveyor
Compasses / Solar Compasses / Telescopes

Antique W. & L. E. Gurley Aluminum Solar Compass

W. & L. E. Gurley Aluminum Solar Compass Gurley Aluminum Solar Compasses are amongst the rarest of the rare in antique surveying instruments. Gurley made an aluminum version of their solar compass for just a few years in the 1890s and only a handful are known to exist or thought to have been produced. Gurleys' use of Aluminum during this time period was very unusual. Aluminum was a relatively new material whose characteristics had not been fully developed, nor understood, or had been perfected. The finished compass, while much lighter than one made of brass, is also much more fragile. Aluminum from this period was very brittle and prone to crack.

One Aluminum Solar Compass came to market at Skinners Auction 15 or so years ago and brought over 17K. I was told it later sold for 60K. There is another example currently on eBay as of Sept 2020 priced at 24K. The author of that ad, a well known authority on antique surveying instruments states that his is one of only a few others known. That would make this the 3rd or fourth known example. I had another collector tell me of a couple others he was aware of.

I went inside this one looking for a date or maker info. I saw no date info. The number 14 was stamped under the plate. The Burt Solar Attachment is also stamped # 14. It could be a serial # or have another explanation. There were some other marks and scratches inside, but they appeared to be reference marks related to assembly.

Inside the original fitted box, in the top compartment, is a dead mint 1920 Gurley Catalog and some other Gurley marked material from the same era. The catalog is still in the original mailing envelope. There are also some newspaper scraps used for packing that are dated 1920. I believe the compass itself dates from the 1890s, some 20 - 30 years earlier, and that the instrument with the 1920 catalog went into storage around 1920.

W. & L. E. Gurley Aluminum Solar Compass Rare Antique

The overall condition of this example is every nice. Both level vials are good although one is blue and one a later clear replacement. All motions and adjustments turn freely. There are two bases. One is a brass leveling head, and one a more typical brass knuckle joint for mounting the compass to a tripod. The striding level is present as is the adjustment bar. The striding level is full, but appears to have a hairline crack in it. There are also two small sight vane attachments with a fitted spot in the box. The tops of the sight vanes are different designs, one rounded and one w/ a peak. The cutouts, patina, and finish match on both and I believe they are "right". One thing to note is that the holes through the aluminum plate under both sight vanes have been slightly enlarged for some reason. This Gurley Aluminum Solar Compass is an amazing instrument that will fit into many different collections. A rare opportunity.

RS-GUR-ASCOMP-3

Good + . . . . . . $17,500.00

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French Surveying Compass These small compasses date from around the turn of the century. American instrument makers and survey supply distributers as well as large regional retailers imported them as a second line for casual users / buyers. This has the knuckle joint. No box. It either fell or was hit by something at some point as one of the level bubbles is broken and the brass housing for it is dented. The needle swings, but does not seem accurate. Suitable for display only.

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TIDD-FCH-COMP

Good. . . . $45.00

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Levels
Wye - Dumpy - Farm - Drainage - Alidades etc.

W. & L. E. Gurley 18" Wye Level A beautiful instrument. Nice overall condition. The 561413 serial # dates it from 1956. Good optics. Crosshairs present. Scope is 18". This instrument will be a good user or will display very nicely.

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TIDD-G18-WYE

Fine+ . . . . . . $195.00

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K & E / Keuffel & Esser Dumpy Level This K & E Dumpy is in very good overall condition. It looks to have seen little use. The serial # is 125338 which according to the dating chart available online dates make it from the end of 1952.

The optics are good, crosshairs present. Black crinkle finish is 95% or better. The box is present and nice as well. A nice user or display piece.

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TIDD-KE-DUMP

Fine . . . . . . $175.00

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Gurley Expedition Size Alidade in Leather Covered Box The serial # of 272026 would date this from 1927. It is in good condition. Crosshairs present, optics good. Good bubble. Compass works. All motions are free and smooth. The scope is approx. 10" long. The box is solid and shows age and wear. Nice!!

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SR-G-ALI-27

Good + . . . . . . $175.00

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Sala Precise Engineer's Level J. C. Sala was a San Francisco based California instrument maker who worked for and took over John Roaches business after he died. This level looks to be a specialty precision level with a very sensitive precise level vial mounted atop the scope. A typical Dumpy levels vial would not be as sensitive and was typically mounted obeneath the scope. Good optics, crosshairs are present, and the finishes have appropriate wear. A bit different and unusual. A nice display piece.

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TIDD-L-SALA

Good + . . . . . . . $225.00

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12" Gurley Wye Level This Gurley Wye Level is double marked with the name Dietzgen, another drafting supply & instrument maker and distributer in the early 20th century marketplace. This level must date from before Dietzgen began produced their own line of instruments and were just distributers or marketers of them. The instrument itself is pretty nice with no issues. The box has led a rough life. Painted and the lid has been refitted / flipped and the hinges reattached. The Gurley label inside the lid is still present. A nice display piece.

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TIDD-G-12WYE

Good . . . . . . . $195.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

W. & L. E. Gurley Farm or Drainage Level Patented in the 1880s. A well built heavy duty little level for rough work out in the field. This example has seen a lot of use, but is still ok. Good optics, crosshairs are present, just missing a lot of the original finish.

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TIDD-GLY-D- LVL

Good + . . . . . . . $75.00

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Misc. Surveying Tools
Plumb Bobs / Chains & More
for Architects / Engineers & Surveyors

K & E / Keuffel & Esser # 12 Surveyor's 66' Link Chain Marked handles. There might be a talley tag missing. It has a joint in, or near the middle that I do not remember ever seeing on a 66' chain before. Nice condition.

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SACB-KE-66

Good + . . . . . . $275.00

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Internal Reel Surveyor's Plumb Bob Unmarked, which is typical. This has a easy to use and hard to jam up internal reel design. Tubes, not wheels. Better than some more complicated models wheels that tend to jam, and can take half the day to get strung back up. Nice condition.

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SACB-REEL-BOB

Good + . . . . . . $175.00

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Stanley No. 1 Surveyor's Plumb Bob w/ Reel

Stanley No. 1 Surveyor's Brass Plumb Bob w/ Reel Unmarked, which is typical. Nice used condition.

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OAK-SREEL-BOB

Good + . . . . . . $95.00

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Pair of World War II Era Mark V English Heliographs This Pair of World War II Era Mark V English Heliographs are in pretty nice condition and pretty complete. Heliographs were used as a means of communicating over long distances by reflecting light back and forth between the mirrors. Morse code, or other codes were used. Esarly versions date from the mid 19th century. The English were still using them into the 1960s. Wikipedia has a long detailed write-up that fully explain their history and use.

The entire setup includes two tripods, 2 mounting brackets, 4 mirrors, 2 leather cases, 2 cans of replacement mirrors, and 3 articulated arms - w/ one being an extra. The tripods are marked as shown in the pics. Note how the legs are shaped in such a way that when folded up they form a circle. The original leather cases are also marked. One case has dividers inside, the other no longer does.

A very nice and interesting piece of surveying history that are becoming very hard to find!

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TIDD-HELIO

Good + . . . . . . $595.00

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Post Cast Iron Survey Rod Targets These are cast iron not sheet metal or other. Like new condition. NOS w/ scuffs.

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TIDD-D-ABNEY

Fine . . . . . . . $10.00 each

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K & E / Keuffel & Esser 4101 20 Inch Stadia Rule

K & E / Keuffel & Esser 4101 20" Stadia Rule K & E offered these Stadia rules aimed specifically for use by surveyors and engineers in two sizes, a 10" model and this the much harder to find 20" version. The cursor is a bit dirty, but solid. I think the few dirty spots on the rule will clean. Overall very nice. A hard slide rule to find.

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TIDD-KE-4101

Fine . . . . . . . $75.00

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Wooden Fixed Warped Leg Tripod & Builders Transit Yard art or man cave display. Looks like it fell over, got run over, and then left out. Sears and others sold this sort of thing to casual users. You are basically buying this for display or to refinish and repurpose the tripod.

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TIDD-SEAR-TPOD

Fair . . . . . . 25.00

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W. & L. E. Gurley No. 545 Folding Rod Level Nice condition. Solid brass with stipple finish. Early model patented in 1885. Later versions were much more cheaply made. A very nice piece.

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AMN-RODLVL

Good + . . . . . $95.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Misc. Surveying Instrument Tripods
for Architects / Engineers & Surveyors

Quick Release Fixed Leg Antique Surveyor Tripod Nice condition. I see no maker info anywhere, but have another similar I know is by Lietz. The release on this is a bit different so that might not be right. A nice condition tripod that will repurpose well.

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AMN-TPOD-PETER-SF

Good + . . . . . $175.00

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Young Wooden Fixed Split Leg Surveying Instrument Tripod Mount size is 3 7/8 x 12 TPI. One leg is marked Young, and Parrish chart lists 3.9" as a Young Size. Green usually indicates ex-military. Nice!!

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TIDD-YOUNG-G-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . 175.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Keuffel & Esser 3 Point Fixed Leg Tripod This is a tripod you rarely see. It fits under the K & E Transit I have listed above. 3 point leveling heads were either a special order or came on the most advanced and expensive instruments different makers offered. Nice!!

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AMN-KE3PT-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . $225.00

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Fixed Leg Survey Instrument Tripod I believe this is by and for Young instruments. The head measures approx. 4 1/4 x 12 TPI. Nice!!

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AMN-YNG-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . $225.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Fixed Split Leg Surveying Tripod Great condition. Head Size is 2 3/4 x 12 TPI. I am not sure what it fits under as it is not listed in the chart of Tripod sizes found on Parrish's site. Nice!!

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TIDD-234-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . $150.00

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Wooden Fixed Split Leg Tripod Mount size is approx. 3 5/8 x 12". According to the Parrish chart this size or things close to it were offered by a number of makers including Dietzgen, K & E, & Gurley. Nice!!

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TIDD-358-12-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . $150.00

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Dietzgen Wooden Fixed & Extendable Split Leg Tripod A hermaphrodite. 2 fixed legs and one adjustable. I have seen this variation offered in different catalogs and while it looks right, it might be an aftermarket modification as the legs are slightly different from each other. Just the thing for really steep hillside. 3 1/2 x 8 TPI". Nice!!

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TIDD-HERM-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . $175.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

English Military Tripod for Heliograph This small light fixed leg tripod is marked near the top. An interesting design the way the inside of the legs are bevel cut so that when folded up it is circular. Like new w/ minor scuffs.

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JF-ENG-TPD

Fine . . . . . $95.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Plane Table Johnson Head Fixed Split Leg Tripod Mount size is 5/8" male stud. The standard for this type tripod for plane tables. A good looking tripod for use or to be repurposed. Nice!!

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TIDD-JHPT-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . $150.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Wooden Tripod w/ 3 Point Quick Release Mount This antique wooden tripod has a removable 3 point mount. The quick release 3 point head unscrews to leave an approx. 1 1/4" male threaded stud. The legs extend and lock as they should. I do not know what it fit under, and it is unmarked save a few numbers on the head. It looks to have seen little use and is in very nice condition. It would be a perfect candidate for a repurposed lamp base.

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TIDD-3PT-TPD

Fine . . . . . $175.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

W. & L. E. Gurley Extendable Leg Wooden Tripod This antique wooden tripod has a head size of 2.8" x 18 TPI a known Gurley size for earlier and smaller instruments. The legs extend and lock as they should. The leg clamps are marked Gurley. One leg has old repairs to cracks. Dirty with little finish left. Still solid and is usable with the repairs, or will display well after an easy refinish.

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TIDD-G-2.8H-TPD

Good . . . . . $125.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Keuffel & Esser / K & E Extendable Leg Wooden Tripod This wooden tripod has a head size of 3 1/2" x 8 TPI the standard size for many later instrument makes. Given the color I assume the Government owned it at one point in time before selling it as used surplus for .10 on the dollar. It looks to have seen little if any use.

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TIDD-GRN-KE-TPD

Fine . . . . . $175.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Aluminum & Wood Surveying Instrument Tripod This later wooden tripod is unmarked as to maker. The head and fitting are made of an non magnetic material that looks like Aluminum. The mount indicates it is for a later instrument that has a 5/8 female thread as found on most later instruments. Has seen considerable use, and is still usable.

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TIDD-ALUM-TPD

Good . . . . . $60.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

David White Fixed Split Leg Surveying Tripod Great condition. Lightweight non magnetic metal construction. Head Size is 3 1/2 x 8 TPI. Like new. Good solid user Nice!!

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TIDD-DW-MTPOD

Fine . . . . . . $120.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

David White Wooden Split Leg Tripod Mount size is 3 1/2 x 8". Will fit under many later make instruments as this was the standard adapted by most makers. A good user. Nice!!

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TIDD-DW-TPOD

Good + . . . . . . $75.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Wooden Split Leg Tripod Mount size is 3 1/2 x 8". Will fit under many later make instruments as this was the standard adapted by most makers. Painted to make it easy to find, and hard to steal. A good user or candidate to repurpose!!

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TIDD-YRED-TPOD

Good . . . . . . $40.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

C. L. Berger & Sons Wood Extendable Leg Surveying Instrument Tripod This wooden tripod is marked on the head w/ the 3 1/2 x 8 TPI size and with the Berger name on the leg clamps. Has seen use and is in good condition.

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TIDD-BERGER-TP

Good + . . . . . $150.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Lietz / Sokisha Aluminum & Wood Surveying Instrument Tripod This later wooden tripod is marked on the head and legs. The head and fitting are made of an non magnetic material that looks like Aluminum. The mount indicates it is for a later instrument that has a 5/8 female thread as found on most later instruments. Has seen use and is in good condition.

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TIDD-L-SOKISA

Good + . . . . . $125.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Wooden Surveying Instrument Tripod It looks like it sat out in the weather too long. A candidate for repurposing and refinishing.

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TIDD-DG-TPOD

Fair . . . . . . $30.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Wooden Surveyors Compass / Instrument Staff

2 Lietz Surveyors Wooden Jacob Staffs for Compass / Surveying Instruments The wooden Jacob Staff on the left or top is a NOS marked Lietz that was probably made by K & E. It still has nearly all of its original finish and has just minor scuffs from storage. It is a tapered 6 or 8 sided pole with a tapered tip waiting to be sized to fit your compass or other surveying instrument. I have two of them. Very nice!!

On the right is a round pole marked Dietzgen with a decorative tapered top mount that has never been sized and is waiting for that instrument you have to be fitted to it. Either of these would be the perfect piece for historical reenactments or similar uses. Both of these wooden surveying Jacob staffs are in excellent / NOS condition and ready for use or display.

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CC-3HX8-TP-1 CC-3HX8-TP-2

Top . . . . . . Fine . . . . . $125.00

Bot . . . . . Fine + . . . . . $125.00 SOLD!!

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Light Duty Wooden Camera Tripod This small antique light duty wooden tripod is unmarked as to maker. The legs extend and are locked with brass level clamps Very nice condition noting the top is beginning to delaminate.

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TIDD-CAM-TPD

Good + . . . . . $30.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Scovill & Adams Mfg. Co. Wooden Camera Tripod This light duty antique wooden tripod is marked on one leg with the maker info. One leg has a period repair with a brass plate. The legs extend and are locked by turning the large thumbscrew. The top plate is brass and has a 1/4 opening. Displays and works well even with the repair.

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TIDD-SCOVILL-TPD

Good . . . . . $50.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

"Sub Grade Rod #218" by L. A. Batham Oakland Cal. I have never seen or heard of this "Sub Grade Rod" before, and neither has Google. This unusual measurement device is NOS in its case. Google does recognize the maker, and he was Oakland's official draftsman back in the 1920s. He also lived in Chico and applied for the chief engineer job there about the same time. That is all the info I could find. No mention of a patent or reference to this type of device would come up.

I am guessing that Mr. L. A. Batham was sent out to a lot of job sites to measure footings and got tired of bending down to read the tape to see if they were the proper depth. Below the name stamp is a window with a ruler that one would read the depth of the footing or trench - below grade while holding it in the trench and reading the scale while standing erect The total travel range of the two sliding sticks is less than 2 feet. That is about what code here calls for with footings and stem walls. That is my guess anyway.

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SR-SG-ROD

Fine . . . . . $275.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

10' Sliding 2 Piece Surveyor's Rod 10' long. Nice!!

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TIDD-10FT-ROD

Good + . . . . . . $30.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Primitive 2 Piece Surveyor's Rod 8' long. It looks like it has the ability to extend, but I could not get it to. Nice!!

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TIDD-Prim-ROD

Good + . . . . . . $30.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Holtzapffel & Co. 64 Charing Cross London Ivory Rule / Protractor for Architects / Navigation

Holtzapffel & Co. 64 Charing Cross London 6" Ivory Rule / Protractor / Sector for Architects / Navigation This Ivory Rule is marked with the famous English engine, lathe, and tool manufacturer' name Holtzapffel & Co. It is configured similar to a Architects Rule with numerous scales and a protractor on the perimeter. Rules like this are usually found in boxed drafting sets, or traveling Shagreen cases associated with navigation or architects. The overall condition is very nice.

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AMN-HOLTZ-SECTOR

Fine . . . . . .$125.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Gold & Treasure Hunters Dowsing Rod w/ Power Tube Every serious gold seeker or treasure hunter needed one of these back in the day. It is not just a dowsing rod for water as is normally thought of, this version is a near magical POWER model if you believe the hype.

It is similar in concept to a Gold or Treasure seekers Spanish dip Compass that also have a power tube filled with magic nuggets to help in the search for treasures. There is one of those Spanish dip Compasses pictured and described in my past sales archives on www.AntiqBuyer.com. The address for that page is https://www.antiqbuyer.com/all_archives/misc-archives/miningarchive.htm

This version looks more like a water dowser in design with its twin handles. The power tube is filled with a special gold looking material that enhances its abilities. The original handles are included but have suffered over the years and are now very fragile and have a tape repair. A past owner / user made a replacement pair of handles that look good and work just as well.

I heard one could take a course in using this sort of thing at Trump University but they are now closed, or at PT Barnum's continuing education site if you can find it. Just send me the money. On a more serious note though there are current day versions of these offered today for the incredible price of over 2K and a 3K model that has the added feature of a small wire antenna to further enhance power tubes ability. Oh Lordy!! Here is the address to view that https://www.simmonsscientificproducts.com/pmr_ii.html Other versions are offered on eBay for somewhat less for the bargain treasure hunters out there. P. T. Barnum and Don the Con would be proud.

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C-DOWSER

Good . . . . . $225.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Jacob's Rod - A Dowsers Guide A reprint of the original French instruction book from the 1600's on how to use the above Dowser and get rich quick.

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DKDC-BK

Good + . . . . . $50.00 or free with purchase of the above Dowsing Rod.

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

Surveying & Other Catalogs

A. Lietz San Francisco 1893 Catalog Nice!!

LCM-LIETZ-1893

Good + . . . . . $275.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

A. Lietz San Francisco 1899 Catalog Nice!!

LCM-LIETZ-1893

Good + . . . . . $395.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

1908 C. L. Berger & Sons Catalog Nice!!

LCM-1908-BERG

Good + . . . . . $195.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

1898 C. L. Berger & Sons "Successor to Buff & Berger" The Buff & Berger partnership broke up in 1898 and so this is the 1st edition Berger Catalog. It is a rebranded Buff & Berger Catalog and carries all the products the partnership offered including the ultra rare Double Standard Mining transit offered as the centerfold. NOT A REPRINT!! Rare and Nice!!

LCM-1918-BERGER

Good + . . . . . $295.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

1912 Hammacher Schlemmer No 500 catalog "Hardware - Tools & Supplies". Hammacher Schlemmer was a famous tool & hardware company based in NYC that has gone through many changes in an attempt to stay current. An original catalog in nice condition. The largest catalog they put out at over 1000 pages.

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OAK-HS-CAT

Good + . . . . . $295.00

To Order Email: patentedantiques@gmail.com

We buy quality Antiques in this and other categories of Antiques.

To view examples of the types of antiques and collectibles we have previously sold
and are always interested in buying please visit our Past Sales Archive Pages at our sister website www.AntiqBuyer.com.

BACK to Surveying

Dating Your Surveying Instrument

Here is a link to a website that can help you date your Transit / Level or other Surveyor's Instrument.
http://www.surveyhistory.org/how_old_is_my_instrument.htm

This website is Copyrighted
Larry & Carole Meeker

Antique & Vintage Surveying / Surveyor Instruments & Tools

Keuffel & Esser / K & E Transits

W. & L. E. Gurley Transits

Transits / Theodolites byYoung / Buff & Buff / Berger / Dietzgen / Lietz & Misc. Makers

Solar & Mining Attachments for Architects, Engineers, & Surveyor's Transits & Related Surveying Instruments

Surveying / SurveyorCompasses / Solar Compasses / Telescopes

Levels Wye - Dumpy - Farm - Drainage - Alidades etc.

Misc. Surveying Tools Plumb Bobs / Chains & More for Architects / Engineers & Surveyors

Misc. Surveying Instrument Tripods for Architects / Engineers & Surveyors

Surveying & Other Catalogs

Antique & Vintage
Surveying / Surveyor Instruments & Tools

Transits / Theodolites by
Young / Buff & Buff / Berger / Dietzgen / Lietz & Misc. Makers

Solar & Mining Attachments
for Architects, Engineers, & Surveyor's Transits
& Related Surveying Instruments

Surveying / Surveyor
Compasses / Solar Compasses / Telescopes

Levels
Wye - Dumpy - Farm - Drainage - Alidades etc.

Misc. Surveying Tools
Plumb Bobs / Chains & More
for Architects / Engineers & Surveyors

Misc. Surveying Instrument Tripods
for Architects / Engineers & Surveyors