Antique Terrestrial Telescope, English, Single Draw Refractor, NSL, Victorian

Our Stock # 18.7486

This is an antique terrestrial telescope. An English, single drawer refractor with National Service League mark, dating to the Victorian period, circa 1880.

Perfect for bird watching, landscape appreciation, wildlife, or maritime observation. Equally suitable for observing the night sky.

• Beautifully presented, large diameter telescope in very good order
• Brass primary barrel, sunshade and draw tube show light signs of tarnish
• Primary barrel enhanced with leather-bound cover in light caramel hues
• Clear, bright objective of impressive proportion at 45mm in diameter(1.75")

• Sliding brass sunshade protects the front element from errant rays
• Further protection offered by sliding dust caps for the front objective and flared eyecup
• Fully drawn to over 1m in length, the single draw tube is engraved 'NSL D 519'
• Supplied with a London Fine oak and brass 'Captain's Stand' for display

During the First World War, Lord and Lady Roberts established a loan scheme for private individuals to lend telescopes, binoculars and field glass to help the war effort. Under the name National Service League, each item was given the initials NSL and a serial number, with the intention to return each surviving item to the lender at the end of the war. This telescope is such an example, proving its inherent fortitude by being several decades old at the time it was called into service.

This is an antique terrestrial telescope with rich colour and storied history, linked to the WWI war effort by way of its National Service League number. Sure to appeal to collectors of military or historical interest, or those seeking a fine antique telescope that's as good today as it was over 100 years ago. Delivered polished and ready to enjoy or display.

Dimensions:
Closed Length: 66cm (26'')
Fully Drawn Length: 109cm (43'')
Objective Glass Diameter: 45mm (1.75'')