Old refractor - anyone recognise it?

[moriniboy]

I have been asked by my local astro society (PADAS) to renovate this scope and put it in good working order. The only problem is we know nothing about its maker apart from the fact that it has an Irving focuser.

My initial thoughts are that its a home built job using astro parts as it has a 88mm brass cell, aluminium tube and a wooden push fit plug which has the focuser attached to it. The jubilee clips holding the OTA to the mount are also a bit of a clue.

Any ideas?

 

 

[DaveS]

I wonder if someone got hold of a trashed 19th or early 20th century brass refractor and salvaged what they could, the lens cell and altitude joint, then cobbled the rest together from scrounged parts, or bits that they might have had lying around.

I'm guessing there's no makers name on the lens cell, possibly on the part inside the tube?

[bomberbaz]

I think its something you cobbled together Nigel and are simply looking for a few tips on where you went wrong  

 

[gnomus]

Not sure why, but it reminds me of the FSQ 85 I had for a while.

[nightfisher]

Is it by chance an old D an G

[moriniboy]

Update, objective now cleaned, it was made by Broadhurst, Clarkson & Co so according to the web its approx 1915 or later.

[moriniboy]

Update, here is a photo of the cell, wooden end cap and dew shield after a bit of TLC.

[John]

Lovely ! - more than "a bit" of TLC I'd say

 

[spaceboy]

I would think the OTA itself was at some time longer. Someone has either changed the cell/ lens or has had problems reaching focus and decided to shorten the OTA. Then because they either lack the skill or tools to turn brass have knocked up an adapter for the focuser out of wood. I have seen the very same butchery on an EVO150.

[Chris]

Looking great so far, I have a feeling they are going to be pleased

[moriniboy]

Finally finished, bit unsure about the choice of crinkle paint as despite taking lots of care its a bit mottled.

[Chris]

Regardless of mottling it looks flipping fantastic! great job bringing this vintage frac back to life

[iPeace]

Call it mottled, I really like that look.

[Alien 13]

Nice, if you want to blend the mottled effect down a little then use a soapy scouring pad but I like it as is.

Alan

[Putaendo Patrick]

Nice work - it looks splendid!