Ebony framed 10 1/2 inch marine octant by Dolland, London.
Peter Dolland, (1731-1820) founded the company in 1750. He took his father into partnership and his father invented the achromatic lens which overcame chromatic aberration in refracting telescopes. Their patent gave them a de facto right of refusal on the best optical flint glass and the firm was acknowledged as the finest maker of optical instruments. The firm exists today as Dolland & Aitchison, English retail opticians.
Ebony frame with brass accoutrements, three coloured glass shades, ivory scale and nameplate.
In good working order without damage.
circa 1800.
Rare.