British sextant by "Spencer Browning & Rust in London" e - Lot 441

British sextant by "Spencer Browning & Rust in London" early 19th century. Manufactured for the French market by the British firm Spencer Browning & Rust in London and made of solid ebony with the limb and maker's plate in ivory, this sextant, complete with its large and small mirror, filters, sighting telescope and removable diaphragms, is a navigation device of exceptional quality and rare in this condition. The varnish on the brass shows normal signs of use, with a beautiful patina that is much sought-after by discerning collectors. The mirrors are faded, the large mirror cracked. Normal condition to be restored or preserved. Spencer Browning & Rust was based at 327 Wapping High Street in London's Docklands district, and operated under this trade name from 1784 until 1840, when Mr. Rust Jr. died. It then changed its name to Spencer Browning & Co, and moved to 66 Wapping High Street. The company was reputed to manufacture instruments of remarkable quality, thanks to the use of a limb-dividing machine made by Ramsden. L. 35 cm Expert: Mr. Marc VOISOT, CNES expert in watchmaking and bronze gilding. restauration@atelierchronos.com