Pre Civil War Antique Telescope by Spencer Browning & Co.
This attractive old spyglass produces a clear sharp image magnified about 20 times, but it does have its share of war wounds. It was made by Spencer Browning & Co. probably between 1840 and 1862 as these are the years the Webster Signature database indicates this venerable firm went by this name. The Spencer, Browning and Rust families formed a series of partnerships beginning in 1784 that produced quality telescopes. The inscription on this scope was used after the death of Ebenezer Rust in1838.
The optics are pretty spectacular and objects spring into focus with foreground objects fading from view as they move out of focus. Although one might have expected the large objective lens to be held by brass curled (spun) over the lens edge, this objective is held in place by a retaining ring. While this might have indicated the achromatic objective lens was not original, this telescope has a rare achromatic triplet objective lens composed of 3 separate lenses (fact omitted in initial listing), which strongly suggests the objective is original to the scope. A retaining ring also has the advantage that the lenses can be removed and cleaned and will come to you in sparkling condition.
This telescope is in very good functional condition as the draws move reasonably well, the focus is precise and the image is unblemished and snaps into view when focus is achieved by moving the smallest draw tube. However, it is the case that this is an old telescope that must be treated with care. The brass has been reattached to the wood main tube at both ends and the large pins used in connecting the draw end appear to have been soldiered in place. Despite the numerous dings the draws open fairly smoothly, however, the threads of the first draw and the threads of the eye lens cap are sufficiently stripped they require support to be stable (e.g. masking tape or card paper between threads). The eye lens cap is particularly loose and may not be original to the scope. None of these faults should be an issue if one holds onto brass (not the wood) and pulls each draw tube as it becomes possible to grasp and open. This is good practice for any antique telescope.
Because the telescope does not have its objective lens cap, it has been matched to a perfectly fitting, age appropriate, leather case that is very attractive and in good condition except for the repaired clasp and loss of some stitching on the bottom. Note the image with the telescope in the case. The edge of the objective mount sits on the leather rim preventing the scope from ramming the bottom during insertion.
The telescope is about 10 inches long when folded, almost 28 inches long when fully extended and has an objective lens with a diameter of almost 2 inches. It can be dissembled for cleaning if that should become necessary.
Be sure to examine the images as they form an important part of the description. Although shipping is listed as economy, items will generally be shipped priority if costs are comparable. I will consider sending the telescope to restricted countries if a buyer seems responsible and assumes shipping risks.
Good Cheap Book (search): Henry C King. History of the Telescope