Kent
> I have no idea how to tell if something like this is real or not, particularly on ebay.
Well, at least it doesn't look as if it was made in India.
Kent
A collector friend told me the seller's description has some errors. He thought (from the pictures) it could be authentic but one made by the shop apprentices and not be the master's best.
With something this expensive, I'd think you need to have the opinion of an unbiased expert who has examined it in person.
1869 Young & Company Solar Compass - Photos
I will go by tomorrow and check them all out and let you know. Hopefully, we will find one. I know there are a couple that have the tapered insert rod and ball that swivels under the compression nut on a tripod.
For KENT - DAVE - BILL
Kent - I'll look through my tripods and see if I have one I can part with. Good possibility since I have a couple hundred assorted ones. Please confirm the 1-1/4" X 14tpi.
Dave & Bill - The Anthony Lam is legit and the description is accurate. The guy that has it knows of what he speaks. He may be expecting a little too much in this economy, but 4 or 5 years ago it would have sold. I'd love to have it in my collection, but not willing to pay for it.
KENT
Feel free to call to discuss cleaning. I have a pretty good idea of what to do and what not to do after having studied & discussed methods and have done a bunch of my own.
Dave
KENT
Thanks, Dave. I'll take you up on it. BTW the hollow mounting stud on the bottom of the leveling base of the solar compass has 14 tpi male threads. The diameter measurement as nearly as I can take it by eye with an engineer's scale to the high and low points on the threads is 1.25" minimum dia. and 1.33" max. dia. So the proper tripod head with female threads ought to have an inside dia. that would measure very close to 1.25" with calipers, I'd think.
The female threaded hole in the tripod head should go through the head, of course, since the plumb bob attachment point is on the leveling base.
KENT
Compressed air and a mascara brush are about as extensive as you want to get on something that old, the patina both protects the underlying brass and increases the value.
Nothing sadder than seeing someone's first attempt with Brasso on a hundred year old instrument.
KENT
> Nothing sadder than seeing someone's first attempt with Brasso on a hundred year old instrument.
Just a cursory review of conservation practices indicates that there is quite a bit of room between Brasso and nothing. :> The single biggest question is basically one of restoration taste. There is a segment of conservators who think restoring the original finish and condition of the instrument ideal. That, of course, usually isn't a polished finish in the case of surveying and scientific instruments. I don't share that view because to me an important element of this particular instrument is that it was actually used for at least forty years and the evidence of that use is in the patterns of wear and loss of finish. I think my ideal restoration would be one that leaves the instrument in working order and looking as it did the last day it was used in the field.