Pocket Sextant By Cary of London

This Fine Item Has Been Sold! Thank you!

Miniature Pocket Sextant

by Cary of London

Dimensions: Dia. at base: 3″, Overall Ht: 2 3/4″ Wt: 1 lb. 1 oz.

Presented is a fine example of a pocket or box sextant by Cary of London. It is secured to a brass base for ease of viewing the celestial object. The bottom of the base is engraved with the owner’s initials. (See Below)

William Cary (c.1759-1825) had the prestige and good fortune of being an apprentice to one of the foremost names in sextant development and manufacture, Jesse Ramsden. William Cary became a prolific manufacturer of sextants, particularly boxed ones so it is wonderful to find a miniature pocket sextant version by this maker.
Jesse Ramsden’s name looms large in the development of instruments for celestial navigation. He invented the circular dividing engine in 1766 and continued with improvements over the years. His dividing engine allowed for precise measurements of the instrument’s arc which was the most important and difficult part of manufacturing precise instruments. He was involved in developing the micrometer drum and the lattice frame used throughout the 19th century and renamed the triangle-pattern frame.

Interior photo showing Index mirror and 2 shades Viewing port and shade adjusting arms

CONDITION: Irrespective of its age, this lovely miniature pocket sextant shows very little wear and is in exceptionally fine condition. The mirrors appear clear as do the two miniature shades. The case shows some wear expected for an instrument of this age. This rare and very collectible instrument will make a wonderful addition to an important collection or as a gift of considerable prestige.

This fine example is engraved with the original owner’s initials, E.J.C.M..

These unusual Pocket or Miniature box sextants are wonderfully collectible and perfect gifts for your sailing or boating enthusiast.

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