This achromatic telescope is typical of the type used on board ship for general observation in the late 19th century. It has a leather-covered barrel and silvered-brass fittings, including a single draw tube, a pivoted eyepiece cover and a sliding sunshade. The maker's name is inscribed on the draw tube.

The telescope once belonged to Midshipman Francis Esdaile of HMS 'Barfleur', whose name is inscribed on the draw tube. Esdaile was only 17 when he was killed during the Boxer Rebellion of 1900. The telescope was given to the National Maritime Museum by his sister.