“MARKSMAN” Three-Draw Brass Telescope by J.H. STEWARD Ltd London with Stitched Leather Barrel and End Protectors

Here on offer is an original “MARKSMAN” three-draw brass telescope by J.H. STEWARD Ltd of London, with a stitched leather barrel and end protectors.

The telescope is in excellent condition with clear undamaged optics, with just some tiny specs of dust on the internal lens.

Stamped on the first draw of the telescope is the following:

‘MARKSMAN’
J.H. STEWARD LTD LONDON
MADE IN ENGLAND

The eye piece still has its original slide cover that works perfectly.

The ‘MARKSMAN’ was marketed as a spotting telescope for a person skilled in precise shooting, often using rifle to hit targets at long distances.

James Henry Steward (1817–1896) established J.H. Steward in London in 1852. As “Head Optician”. J.H Steward became incorporated as J.H. Steward Limited on 1st February, 1913.

The company produced a large range of items for military use and advertised in their catalogues that they produced instruments for ‘Reconnoitring, Sketching, Night Marching, Signally, Gun Laying’.

They were well thought of with their work to such a high standard that they were opticians to ‘The British & Foreign Governments, the National Rifle Associations of England, India, Canada & the Colonies and the National Artillery Association.

This example is hard to date accurately as the address only states “London” but I would estimate it to be an interwar made piece, circa 1930 and most likely a private purchase telescope for a rifle club.

It has a 1.75” diameter objective lens at the far end, that can be glare and weather shielded by a pull-out brass/leather cover.

All of the three pull-out brass sections extend well and have been lightly oiled (with gun oil) to ease their operation. They now have a dark patina, but this could be polished to a bright brass finish.

The telescope also retains both protective leather end caps, but is now missing its thin leather retaining/carrying strap, which could easily be replaced.

This is a fine example with just some very light surface wear to the leather barrel section.

It measures 32” (81.3cm) long when fully extended with the shield extended and 10.5” (26.7cm) long when closed up, without the protective covers fitted.

It weighs a heavy 1.14Kg.

Please see my pictures for the details of the condition, which complement this description.

Please see my TERMS OF BUSINESS regarding Deliver Charges and Insurance regarding additional insurance cover, should you require it, BEFORE the item is dispatched.

The responsibility lies with the customer to check with your Customs restrictions that this item can be imported into your country.

Many thanks for taking the time to look.

Code: 52076