Day or night telescope

The barrel of this achromatic telescope is made of mahogany, while the single draw tube is made of brass. The brass fittings include a sliding eyepiece cover. The objective lens cap is now missing. The maker's name is inscribed on the draw tube as 'G. Willson London, / Day or Night'. The words 'Day or Night' indicate that the telescope was for use in all light conditions.

Like NAV1683 and NAV1684, this telescope is said to have belonged to William Griffin, who entered the Royal Navy in 1812, becoming a Rear-Admiral in 1862.

Object Details

ID: NAV1682
Collection: Astronomical and navigational instruments
Type: Day or night telescope
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Willson, George
Date made: circa 1820
People: Griffin, William
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: Overall: 515 mm; Diameter: 60 mm