This theodolite is a bit of a mystery as to maker. It looks very similar to K&E branded Askania-Werke from perhaps the 1980s. It comes in a fitted Franke & Co. Optik GmbH Giessen W-Germany case. The instrument’s Serial Number is Nr.101529. Despite the serial number, there is NO makers mark anywhere on the unit. Estimated date of manufacture prior to German unification in 1990.
Here are some features:
- Good construction-grade direct reading to 1-minute arc,
- Erect telescope image (right-side up),
- Optical plummet,
- Telescope sun shade,
- Telescope and micrometer focusing controls,
- Simultaneous display of Vertical and Horizontal readings,
- Control knobs for both Vertical and Horizontal circles are on the same side,
- Upper plate horizontal level,
- Lower plate bubble level
- Hinged daylight reflection mirror,
- Illumination XLR female socket and lamp socket,
- Unit handle,
- Tool pouch with tools, inc Wata lens brush (see photo),
- Yellow case with handle
The tripod in the photos is NOT FOR SALE.
Look at the scan of a 1961 K&E KE-6E (Askania Tts) info on their 1-minute theodolite to get a better understanding of reading the vertical and horizontal scales.
Condition:
The overall condition is good for its age. See scuffs and paint wear typical for age. Reflection mirror has some silver loss, but still good at capturing light.
I do not know when this was last calibrated since leaving the factory. Assume that this may be out of calibration. I do not have the ability to calibrate it.
The optical glass for both the telescope and micrometer is clear, no haze, no fungus, no scratches of note. Stadia lines are nice and sharp.
The telescope moves smoothly, rotating fully without dragging.
The microscope image reads clearly. There is a yellow/greenish tint because the reflection mirror unit has a colored lens that I do not think can be removed or replaced. The reflection mirror unit is plastic and shows wear at the hinge pin.
Accuracy:
This is a 3rd order construction theodolite. This category typically ranges from 10-20-30 seconds and 1-minute. Because of the lower accuracy, sometimes these are referred to as Optical Transits.
The Vertical and Horizontal micrometer circles here read to 1-minute of arc.
Illumination:
The electric circuit from the female XLR socket through to the theodolite lamp connection functions. Tested with voltmeter. I do NOT have the illumination unit and accessories for this theodolite.
Accessories:
- Sunshade (mounted on telescope)
- Adjustment tool kit in the case (see pics)
Case
- General scuffs and paint from years of use,
- Broken leather handle replaced with polypropylene webbing
- Missing some of the interior grey rubber bumper pads
Look at the photos.
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The tripod in the photos is NOT FOR SALE.
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