J. W. Breithaupt & Sohn Theodolite - Very good condition with wooden case

Description

Theodolite made by
J. W. Breithaupt & Sohn (Kassel, Germany) -
Number 34339.
Overall the instrument appears to be in very good condition with some minor wear marks. The optics are clear and focus well. Cross hairs, level bubbles, leveling screws are in good shape. It has a unique optical system for reading the horizontal and vertical circles. As shown in one of the pictures, light from battery powered 3 v lamps is directed to the scales by a mirror system and read by the scope on the side of the instrument.
Telescope length: 5", level length on scope: 2-1/4", Height: 91/2", Horizontal circle: 3-1/2", Vertical circle: 3". It has an aluminum base plate that attaches under the three leveling legs that can be mounted a tripod head (included, but no legs). Dovetailed wooden case in good condition.
This instrument was acquired
in 1970
by a private collector from the previous owner who was located in Long Beach, California. It has been in climate controlled storage since then.
About J. W. Breithaupt & Sohn:
The company was founded in 1762 and is reputed to be the world's oldest instrument manufacturer. Here are links to several articles describing the company and its history:
https://archive.amerisurv.com/PDF/TheAmericanSurveyor_Cheves-VisitToBreithaupt_Vol10No5.pdf
https://archives.profsurv.com/magazine/article.aspx?i=356
https://archives.profsurv.com/magazine/article.aspx?i=376