Lot Essay
Spencer, Browning & Rust worked in partnership between 1784 and 1840
Details
An early 19th-Century vernier octant by Spencer, Browning & Rust
constructed in ebony, ivory and brass, the inlaid ivory scale divided on Ramsden's engine 2½°- 0°- 100° (old repair at 80°), the index arm with retailer signature for E. Smith & Co. Liverpool, vernier clamp, two pin-hole sights (one double), three mirrors, three shades, unused ivory plaque inlaid in cross bar, turned ivory pencil holder and inlaid ivory note-square to back, the frame with brass pin feet (one replaced); the radius -- 11½in. (29cm.)
together with an AM MkIX A bubble sextant in case and an AM azimuth circle No.4
See illustration
constructed in ebony, ivory and brass, the inlaid ivory scale divided on Ramsden's engine 2½°- 0°- 100° (old repair at 80°), the index arm with retailer signature for E. Smith & Co. Liverpool, vernier clamp, two pin-hole sights (one double), three mirrors, three shades, unused ivory plaque inlaid in cross bar, turned ivory pencil holder and inlaid ivory note-square to back, the frame with brass pin feet (one replaced); the radius -- 11½in. (29cm.)
together with an AM MkIX A bubble sextant in case and an AM azimuth circle No.4
See illustration
Literature
Clifton, G: Directory of British Scientific Instrument Makers 1550-1851, Zwemmer 1995