Antique Breithaupt & Sohn Theodolite. Kassel, Germany, circa 1920

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Antique Breithaupt & Sohn Theodolite. Kassel, Germany, circa 1920

Antique Breithaupt & Sohn theodolite manufactured in Kassel, Germany, circa 1920, in good condition. This is a fantastic measuring instrument nearly a century old, yet it has survived to the present day in working condition. It is small in size, likely intended for fieldwork. It comes in a solid mahogany storage case, which is in turn protected by an attractive canvas and leather carrying case. Both are very well preserved and continue to serve their purpose perfectly. The theodolite is made of black-enamelled brass; the enamel shows some scuffs and signs of ageing, which are to be expected in such an old instrument and lend it an attractive patina of authenticity.

The compass is in excellent working condition. The name of the manufacturer, Breithaupt & Sohnone of Europes most prestigious companies for measuring and surveying instrumentsis printed on the dial. The serial number 1846 is also visible. The bubble levels are in good condition, and the telescopes optics provide proper focus. The case contains several accessories necessary for the use and maintenance of the theodolite, all of which are also original period pieces.

This antique Breithaupt & Sohn theodolite deserves a place in a technology museum or a comprehensive collection of vintage technical instruments.

Dimensions: Compass width: 14 cm. Telescope length: 21 cm. Height: 14 cm.

History of Breithaupt & Sohn

In 1762, Johann Christian Breithaupt founded a company in Germany to manufacture surveying and measuring instruments. Five years later, he began producing instruments for the royal court and the aristocracy, and the business took off. In 1798, Breithaupt developed the first theodolite for mining use: from that moment on, innovation would be a constant for the company throughout the centuries. In 1799, his sons joined the business and became part of the company. The company continued to grow, collaborating with prestigious firms such as Gauss. In 1831, the third generation of the family joined the business; Georg Breithaupt, the founders grandson, changed the companys name to F.W. Breithaupt & Sohn. The company continued to grow and evolve throughout the 19th century, and in 1919 it began the industrial production of its instruments. World War II led to the destruction of the factory, but in 1946 the company recovered and resumed production. Beginning in the 1960s, Breithaupt & Sohn entered the field of electronic instrument manufacturing and continued to develop cutting-edge technology, something it continues to do today.