Fine Miniature Presentation Boxed Sextant signed Troughton & Simms London, circa 1826
Information RARE HISTORIC MINIATURE SEXTANT. A fine, mid-1800s presentation sextant signed on the large arc in perfect hand-engraved script, “Troughton & Simms, London.” Of all brass construction with a V-shaped frame, the sextant has an inlaid silver arc reading from -5 to 160 degrees, effectively making it a quintant. Incredibly, these divisions along with the vernier scale on the index arm, allow this sextant to match the accuracy of it larger cousins, down to 20 arc seconds! A pivoting magnifier is provided for taking the reading. The index arm has a miniaturized version of a thumb screw stop and tangential fine adjust. The sextant is complete with its 2 horizon filters and 2 index filters in perfect condition. The index mirror and horizon mirror are in beautiful condition. The whole presentation is totally complete in its shaped rich mahogany box. The octagonal ebony handle screws into the frame with a secure fit. There are two optics, a peep and a telescope which fit into the height-adjustable sight holder. Rounding out the accessories, there are both sight tube filters, mirror adjustment tool, and the functional skeleton key for the cases brass lock. Of special interest the hand-engraved presentation on sterling silver inlaid plaque on the top of the box. It reads, “Presented at the Public Examination on the 13th of June 1851 to Gentleman Cadet, Henry Goodwyn by the Honble Court of Directors of the East India Company, as a mark of the Courts approbation of his attainments in Mathematics while at the Military Seminary.” (I 0993))
Condition: Excellent original finish and retains the original key.
Dimensions of Instrument: Height 5 1/2". Width 6 1/8"
Dimensions of Box: Height 6 1/2", Width 8 1/2"
Circa 1826
