Antique Telescope by Parnell, Hermitage Bridge London, ca1810

Description

Antique Telescope by Parnell Hermitage Bridge London, ca1810
Very old telescope produced by William or Thomas Parnell in the early 1800s. More likely this scope was made by William Parnell, the father, who worked alone from 1776 until his son entered the business in 1811. Overall this telescope is in very good shape but the objective lens is not original.  While the scope is sound mechanically, there are dents in the draws that moderately impede movement. Both the objective cap and the pin of the horizotally sliding eye lens covers are missing.  A significant patch of the finish has been lost, but the mahogany showing through is very nice and refinishing the main tube would probably reveal spectacular grain.
Despite replacement of the objective lens, the optics are very good and the scope forms a clear sharp image when focused by moving the smallest draw to the appropriate position. While the objective lens is a good match, the focal length is a little long with the consequence that the scope does not focus on objects closer than 20 yards. Potentially problematically, the lens holder is fitted to the lens mount with a pressure fitting rather than threads. It is firmly attached and has to be pried out, but this is all rather inelegant.
The scope is almost 7.5 inches long when folded, about 23 inches long when extended and has an objective lens with a diameter of about 1 and 3/8 inches. It can be dissembled for cleaning if that should become necessary. Be sure to examine the images as they form an important part of the description.
Although shipping is listed as economy, items will generally be shipped priority if costs are comparable.   I will consider sending the telescope to restricted countries if a buyer seems responsible and assumes shipping risks.