This achromatic telescope is typical of the type used on board ship in the early 19th century. It has a leather-covered barrel and a single brass draw tube. The other brass fittings include a sliding eyepiece cover, although the objective lens cap is now missing. The maker's name is inscribed on the draw tube as 'W. & T. Gilbert. / Mathematical Instrument Makers & Optns / to the Honble East India Compy / London'.