Naval telescope

This achromatic telescope is typical of the type used on board ship for general observations. It has a tapering barrel covered with leather, a single brass draw tube and brass fittings that include a sliding eyepiece cover and an objective lens cap. The maker's name is inscribed on the draw tube as 'J & W WATKINS / Charing Cross, LONDON' beneath the name 'EDMUND NUGENT', perhaps referring to a retailer or owner. A label with the telescope records that it was believed to have been the property of Lord Nelson, but this has not been confirmed.

Object Details

ID: TOA0103
Collection: Astronomical and navigational instruments
Type: Naval telescope
Display location: Not on display
Creator: Nugent, Edmund; Watkins & Smith
Places: Charing Cross
Date made: circa 1790
People: Nelson, Horatio; Nugent, Edmund Watkins & Smith
Credit: National Maritime Museum, Greenwich, London
Measurements: 1205 x 67 x 67 extended; 880 x 67 x 67 mm closed