Description

Hilger & Watts microptic transit theodolite. A telescope bubble and tubular compass is fitted. Used for measuring horizontal and vertical angles in mining and land surveying and for setting out works.

For the tripod see https://ice-museum-scotland.hw.ac.uk/product/1996-008-1/

The Haldens of Manchester catalogue describes the spirit levels as follows:  “Two 2-minute spirit levels are geometrically mounted  at right-angles to each other on a platform to one side of the instrument; each is adjustable by means of  of an external screw fitted with a locknut, and both are covered by a transparent non-breakable shield. A telescope bubble and tubular compass can be fitted.”

The item is marked “Stirling County Council”. Up until 1975 Stirlingshire County Council was the local authority which operated the Trade School for mining and building.

This item was used for teaching purposes by the donor, Falkirk College of Further and Higher Education.