Antique W. L. & E. Gurley Surveying Transits

This is just a sample of the many antique Gurley Transits we have sold.
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W. & L. E. Gurley Light Mountain Transit  This c. 1912 W. & L. E. Gurley Transit is in good overall condition. The contrasting finishes have a nice look and show appropriate wear from use. All motions operate smoothly. The compass face is nice and the compass needle swings north. Cross hairs are present.

The leather covered box is missing the top leather cover, a common situation. The box is a proper size and era light mountain box, but it seems to have been swapped from another instrument as the interior is set up for a solar instrument with places for the Burt Attachment, the aux level, the adjusting bar, etc. This W. & L. E. Gurley transit is not set up for those attachments and so was swapped to this box at some point.

Good + . . . . . . . $595.00       SOLD!!

W. & L. E. Gurley Pre 1880 Surveying Transit This large Gurley Surveyor's Transit is in good overall cosmetic condition. It will display well. There is no serial # dating it from prior to 1908. The standards are a straight leg A further dating it prior to 1880.

One vertical crosshair is present. The optics are OK. The scope is 11". The leveling base disconnects from the instrument to store in its own place in the proper wood box that has been painted. The instrument compass points north, and the bubbles are OK. It is early enough that the face is hand engraved. 

This early Gurley instrument will display very nicely in any instrument collection. Nice.

Good . . . . . . $595.00        SOLD!!

W. & L. E. Gurley Special Order "Made Expressly For" Survey Transit  This unusual W. & L. E. Gurley Transit is closest in size and form to a Light Mountain size instrument.  It has several features different from the norm.  Most notably it is engraved on the compass face, under the glass, "Made Expressly For Jas H. Blackburn"  & "El Paso De Robles Cal."  A quick Google search turns up he owned a large sheep ranch in San Luis Obispo Co. during the proper time frame of late 19th century.

The scope is 8" long.  The box is smaller than the typical leather covered Light Mountain Box. This is how I first noticed this transit was a different size as it looks so much like a typical Light Mountain.  The half circle on the side @ 6" dia. is larger than typical.  The fine adjusts are a bit different, heavier duty, as well.

It is in pretty nice overall condition.  All motions are free, optics are good, good bubbles, crosshairs, etc.    The tripod mount size is 3.625" x 18 TPI, and I have a kind of beat up tripod that size listed below if you want it displayed on a tripod. 

Good  + . . . . . . $995.00      SOLD!!

W. & L. E. Gurley Recon Transit  The Gurley Recon Transit is bigger than their Expedition model and about the same length as the Light Mountain, but with a smaller and lighter frame and scope.  The scope is only 9" long.  The instrument is in nice overall condition with no issues.  There is no serial # which would date it from before 1908.  The standards would date it from after the 1880s.  The box was refinished at some point.    A nice display piece.

Good + . . . . . . . $695.00       SOLD!!

W. & L. E. Gurley Engineer's Survey Transit  This large & graphic W. & L. E. Gurley Engineer's  Transit will make for a great display piece.  It is in pretty nice overall condition and looks great.  All motions are free, optics are good, good bubbles, crosshairs, etc. Under the compass glass the needle lifting ring is gone.  It is hardly noticeable.  This transit was cleaned and made to look good before I got it.  Not sure where the lifting ring got to during that process but it is gone.  I have the bottom of the original box.  The lid and top of the box are gone.  It is rough and has little finish.  You can have it or not.  Might add a few dollars to ship it, and it would afford the instrument added protection in transit. 

Good  . . . . . . $475.00         SOLD!!

c. 1919 W. & L. E. Gurley Engineers Transit  This large W. & L. E. Gurley transit is offered as seen without a box.  It is in overall good original un-cleaned condition.  It is a large and graphic instrument that will make for a great display piece. The scope is 11" and it has a 5" half circle vernier.  All three level bubbles are good, and the 5" compass need swings north as it should.  The serial # begins with a 19 would date this transit from 1919.

All motions operate freely and smoothly. The optics are good, and crosshairs are present.  It will make for a great display piece.   Nice!!

Good  . . . . .  $350.00      SOLD!!

W. & L. E.  Gurley Pre 1880 Engineer's Surveying Transit  This early & large Gurley Surveying Transit is in very nice overall condition. It has a repair and service tag inside that indicates it was cleaned & calibrated in 1983.  There is no serial # dating it from prior to 1908. The standards are straight leg A style further dating it prior to 1880.  The scope is 11".  The optics are good & crosshairs are present.   All motions are free and smooth.  Bubbles are all good.  The compass functions as it should.  There is a brass ring adapter to change the tripod mount down to 3 1/3 x 8 TPI so it can be used on later more standard tripods. The mahogany box is very nice.  A nice instrument for the collection or casual use. 

Fine . . . . .  $995.00        SOLD!!

W. & L. E.  Pre 1880 Gurley Surveying Transit  This large Gurley Surveyor's Transit is in good overall condition.  There is no serial # dating it from prior to 1908. The standards are a straight leg A further dating it prior to 1880. The rear eyepiece for the crosshairs focus has to be twisted slightly or the gear skips when focusing the crosshairs.  The optics are good.  The scope is 11".  The box is correct but only has Elliot markings. 

This early Gurley instrument will display very nicely in any instrument collection.  Nice

Good  . . . . .  $550.00     SOLD!!

c. 1880 W. & L. E. Gurley Engineers Transit in Box  This large W. & L. E. Gurley transit is in overall good original condition.  It is a large and graphic instrument that will make for a great display piece. The scope is 11" and it has a 5" full vernier circle.  All three level bubbles are good, and the 5" compass need swings north and locks as it should.  All motions operate freely and smoothly. The optics are good, and crosshairs are present. 

There is no serial # and so dates from prior to 1908, and after about 1880 given the bent leg standards.  It will make for a great display piece.  Nice!!

Fine  . . . . .  $895.00      SOLD!!

W. & L. E. Gurley Light Mountain Transit  Offered here is a nice looking antique W. & L. E. Gurley transit in its original box. There is no serial # which would date this Gurley Light Mountain size transit as pre 1908.  The overall condition is excellent.  It has not been cleaned or otherwise fiddled with and has a nice even patina.  All motions operate freely and smoothly. The level bubbles are all good. The optics are good, and crosshairs are present.  The compass is operable and points north.  It will make for a great display piece.  The box is in nice condition with original finish.  There is a plumb bob, screwdriver, sunshade and K & E loupe stored in the box.

Fine  . . . . .  $595.00       SOLD!!

W. & L. E. Gurley # 76 Architects Transit   A nice looking W. & L. E. Gurley instrument, but has issues with the optics and there are no cross hairs I can see.  The rest is very nice. It is a pre serial # W. & L. E. Gurley transit dating it from before 1908.  It is a very large and graphic unit, it will be a great display piece.    Priced as is and for decoration. 

Good - . . . . . . $250.00      SOLD!!

c. 1951 W. & L. E. Gurley Hell Gate Precise Transit / Theodolite in Box   This later W. & L. E. Gurley instrument has a couple odd characteristics.  First, the scope is so long that it can not turn a circle within the standards.   In addition to the longer than usual scope it has special order magnifiers to help read the plate vernier scales. They move side to side on a special rod attached to the plate.  A feature I had seen in catalogs before, but never actually on an instrument.   Different, and Nice!!

Good +  . . . . . . $375.00

Gurley Light Mountain Transit   The serial # of 511364 would date it from 1951.   Everything works and the optics are crisp and clear. It is in overall good condition.  It will make for a fine general purpose user or nice display piece. 

Good +   . . . . . . . $250.00        SOLD!!

Gurley Solar Transit w/ Burt Patent Solar Attachment in Original Box  This Gurley Solar Transit is in very nice overall condition and dates from the early part of the last century. This form of surveying instrument, a light mountain transit equipped with a factory Burt Patent Solar Attachment is one of the most desirable and sought after of all surveying related devices ever developed or offered.  The serial number on it indicates the date of manufacture as being 1913.  It has never been cleaned and the brass has a wonderful mellow patina. Gurley was located in Troy New York at this time, and their reputation for the manufacture of quality surveying related instruments was unsurpassed. 

Solar instruments were developed for use in the field to facilitate finding ones location using the sun and horizon much as seamen would do with sextants or octants.  Their use was made necessary where ore deposits would adversely affect the accuracy of a regular compass. Even though the concept has been around for many years very few of them were actually made for use in the field.  The idea behind solar instruments was that in certain areas the magnetic deviation was so great and the errors it could cause so great that these unusual and significant devices were developed as a way to compensate for this effect.  Their use enabled the user to find a true reference or location using the horizon and the position of the sun instead of the standard methods employing just the compass. 

Each surveying instrument maker developed or adapted one or more different designs for use on their instruments.  K & E primarily used the Saegmuller a small telescope like affair named after the inventor.  Gurley used the Burt Patent attachment.  Other patented versions of solar attachments were named after the inventor of each, such as Burt, Smith, Pearson, and others.  

All motions operate smoothly. The compass face is nice and the compass swings north.  Cross hairs are present.  This rare & desirable surveying instrument will display very nicely in any number of settings. The box and leather covering are nice as well noting some of the sewn seams coming undone and the small straps showing wear.  This Solar Transit is surely one of the most striking and graphic of forms of surveying instrument that are available not to mention one of the most avidly sought.  Rarely seen or offered for sale one of these instruments will move your collection to the head of the line.

Fine  . . . . . . $3295.00     SOLD!

W. & L. E. Gurley Pre 1880 Surveying Transit This large Gurley Surveyor's Transit is in good overall cosmetic condition. It will display well. There is no serial # dating it from prior to 1908. The standards are a straight leg A further dating it prior to 1880.

The crosshairs are present, but a bit off center. The optics are OK. The scope is 11". The leveling base disconnects from the instrument to store in its own place in the proper and nice wood box. The instrument has a non reflective dark lacquer finish that is pretty nice. The compass points north, and the bubbles are all OK.

This early Gurley instrument will display very nicely in any instrument collection. Nice.

Good . . . . . . $595.00        SOLD!!

Gurley Light Mountain Transit  A nice looking antique Gurley transit in its original box. The serial # is 20269 dating this from 1922 .  The overall condition is good.  It has not been cleaned or otherwise fiddled with and has a nice patina.  All motions operate freely and smoothly. The level bubbles are all good. The optics are good, and crosshairs are present.  The compass is operable and points north.  It will make for a great display piece.  The box is in nice condition.

Good +  . . . . .  $650.00       SOLD!!

Gurley #28 Light Mountain Transit w/ Tripod w/ Patented 1878 Quick Leveling Head  This is a very nice Antique W. & L. E. Gurley  #28 Light Mountain Transit. It comes with a rare Gurley accessory called a quick adjust leveling head, a collapsible leg tripod, and a hard to find internal reel plumb bob. The auxiliary mounting adapter has a fitted spot inside the box, but there is no easy way to utilize it, and it has been surmised that it was used with a small wye or other level in the field as was typical in the day when surveyors would carry more than one instrument into the field for different applications.  (See pic 3 & 4)  This adapter has a station inside the box so one can assume it was special ordered at the time of the original purchase.

This antique surveyors transit does not have a serial # thus dating it from pre 1908. The A shaped standards have a bend near the bottom dating it from the 1880's or later.  The Mahogany box is very nice with original finish.  It has a 4 1/2" vertical half circle is graduated on silver and reads to a minute.  The silvered compass face is clean & nice.  The compass needle works well and locks as it should.

All motions operate freely and smoothly.  All three level bubbles are good. The optics are good, and crosshairs are present.  All in all a nice piece with some unusual additions / features. 

Good +  . . . . .  $1295.00       SOLD!!

Gurley Light Mountain Mining Transit   This is a very nice and very hard to find Antique Gurley Mining transit.  It is not just a regular Gurley Light Mountain transit.  It is set up specifically to be a mining transit w/ a second scope mounted on the scope axle on the side of the instrument. 

Typical Gurley Light Mountain transits turn up pretty regularly.  Gurley Solar Transits built on this size frame turn up now and again as well.  I have one listed below, and have had and sold several of those solar instruments over the years.  This is the first Gurley transit set up exclusively to be a mining transit I have ever had or seen.  The box is set up for the second auxiliary scope and the special connector piece, but alas, both of these pieces to complete this transit are missing.   

This antique mining transit does not have a serial # thus dating it from pre 1908.  The standards have a bend near the bottom dating it from the 1880's or later.  The leather covered fitted box is nice noting some weak seams.  The 4 1/2" full vertical circle is graduated on silver and reads to a minute.  The silvered compass face is clean & nice.  The compass works well. The auxiliary scope was designed to mount on the scopes axis outside the standards on the side.  The other side has a large knurled knob that doubles as a counterweight.  The overall condition is nice, and other than a cap and spring missing from the plate adjuster on one side, I really see no other apologies other than the missing scope mentioned before.

Mining transits were used in situations where the operator had to shoot down vertical shafts or odd angles. When mounted on the side it projected past the plate to allow the user to shoot that line.  Different manufacturers used different approaches to solve the problem.  Gurley's number for the secondary scope was #160.  Catalogs of the era show that it could be ordered to mount over the scope as well.  Other manufactures used the same means or slight variations.   Buff offered a version where the main scope could be released and moved into another position further out on the standards above the plate.  There is also a version with a leaning frame to allow for the same effect.

Good +  . . . . .  $1095.00    SOLD!!

W. & L. E.  Gurley Vernier Transit Compass  This early W. & L. E. Gurley surveying instrument is pre Civil War and dates from the mid to late 1850's.  This vernier transit compass was made shortly after the Phelps and Gurley company broke up and the W. & L. E. Gurley company was formed and began operations in Troy NY.  Check out the tag inside the lid  from Larrabee & North a military goods dealer out of Chicago dated 1858.   It is a very early surveying instrument in the scheme of things. 

Gurley referred to this design of a scope mounted over a compass as a vernier transit compass.  The design for transits was evolving and had not yet been fully perfected.  Note that there is no main level below the scope and that the scope, by design, has no lock feature.  This design was first offered with flat standards, and Gurley switched to this style A standard design in 1855 according to the reference I read.  Also note that this instrument has no leveling base.  It was designed to sit atop a tripod with either a leveling head or just a swiveling knuckle joint to level it.  The last pics show this compass / transit mounted on an appropriate period tripod.  I have that tripod listed separately on the tripod page.  They are being offered separately and the price below is for the instrument only. 

The needle is 6" ( needs to be magnetized ) and the scope measures 11" long.  The optics are clear but I see no crosshairs.   The original box is pretty nice noting the crack in the lid.   The compass face is hand engraved, and the Troy location is at the bottom. Please check all the pics.  This is a large, graphic, and historically important early surveyors instrument that will make for a fine addition to any collection.  

Good + . . . . . . .  $795.00         SOLD!!

W. & L. E.  Gurley #100 Reconnaissance Transit w/ Box  The Gurley #100 Reconnaissance transit is very small and lightweight surveying instrument when compared to the light mountain size transit or the even larger engineer size transits Gurley offered.  It was designed to be carried into the field where weight and bulk were primary considerations.  It stands approx. 10" tall to the top of the full circle vernier and has a 9" long scope. It weighs about 7 lbs. as opposed the 13 lb. a #28 Light mountain size transit weighs.  The differences in scale & weight are evident when set next to each other. The 2 3/4" tripod mount size is also much smaller than the tripod the light mountain transit uses.

This transit has no serial # which would date it prior to 1908. Gurley.  The patina this brass instrument has developed original and looks good. The vertical circle is silvered and nice.  All motions move freely and the compass operation is good.  The silvered compass face is nice as well with the name and location above the North Fleur d' Leis. The leveling bubbles are all good. The optics are clear and good.

This size transit is not seen often and is offered for sale even less often. Be sure to take a look at all the pictures, including the ones of the box. A nice instrument that will display nicely or be a great addition to the collection.

Good+ . . . . . . .  $895.00     SOLD!!

W. L. & E. Gurley Vernier Transit / Compass w/ Box  This Gurley Compass / Transit is an early example that I believe dates from the Civil War era or just after. Note the size / dia. of the main plate and how wide it is compared to those on later transits. Gurley referred to this design of a scope mounted over a compass as a vernier transit compass in their early catalogs.

Another indication of how early this transit is that the scope can not turn a circle inside the early straight leg A frame standards. The design of transits and optics for them was evolving at this point and had not been perfected. Note also the hook it has on the bottom side of the plate. It is part of the plate vernier lock clamp. I am not sure what it is for, but it looks original and has the same patina as the rest of the instrument. This instrument has its original patina and has not been polished or buffed up. All three of the level vials are good. most of the screws turn easily. The compass face is bronzed and looks to be hand engraved. Note also the size and design of the Fleur-d-lie at the north point. The Troy NY location is at the bottom.

On the down side, the plate is slightly off balance, or out of round and so does not want to turn a full circle as it should. Looking at the bottom leveling head area the spindle mount has a different patina, but its holes line up and so it may have been worked on at some point. The other parts of the leveling head work as they should. This transit is being sold as is and as a display piece.

Good  . . . . . .$695.00       SOLD!!

W. L. & E. Gurley #100 Reconnaissance Transit   This transit was offered by Gurley and was designed to be carried into the field where weight and bulk were primary considerations.  The instrument with the leather covered box and smaller than usual tripod could be more easily carried in the field.    This particular instrument also came equipped with the seldom seen Beaman Stadia Arc which was designed first in 1904 and issued a patent in 1906.  It was offered by Gurley as an accessory that could be attached to the vertical circle of instruments to help simplify and speed up the figuring of elevations and other Stadia related work.  This instrument dates from very close to this date, and like many Gurley instruments carries no serial # thus making exact dating a task at times.

There is a very nice and informative site on the Internet called The Virtual Museum of Survey History that has dating charts for many of the major makers of surveying instruments if you need help determining the age of an instrument that you have.

All motions on this transit move freely and the compass operation is flawless. The silvered compass face is in excellent condition as well.    The leveling bubbles are all good. The overall finish, a bronzed or green lacquer has some chips and scrapes but in general looks good and is original.

W. L. & E. Gurley of Troy New York was the dominant force in the manufacture and distribution of quality surveying instruments from the time of their inception in the mid 1800's thru today.  Their name has always been associated with top of the line quality throughout their history, and the instruments they manufactured to help build America are second to none.  This size transit is not seen often and  is offered for sale even less often.  Be sure to take a look at all the pictures, including the ones of the leather covered box.  The box itself is nice, but the top leather portion has become detached and is missing.  What remains is nice, but has several sewn seams that are coming undone.   A nice instrument that will display nicely or be a great addition to the collection.

Good + . . . . .$895.00      SOLD

W. L. & E. Gurley #100 Reconnaissance Transit   Here is another similar to the one above in a different finish. There is no serial # so it dates prior to 1908.  This size transit was offered by Gurley to be carried into the field where weight and bulk were primary considerations.  The box is nice, and overall it is in excellent condition.  A nice instrument that will display nicely or be a great addition to the collection.

Good + . . . . .$795.00     SOLD

W. & L. E Gurley #28 Light Mountain Transit  This transit is in very nice condition and dates from 1913 as evidenced by the serial number on the face of the engraved compass.  Dating Gurley instruments can sometimes be a challenge as they did not always have serial #s as a guide.  Often times the vintage of a piece has to be determined by minor changes in construction or design features, or from something as innocuous as the picture of the factory that was often included in the box which was changed over the years as the company grew and prospered.  Also determining the exact model # can be challenging as well as such small differences as the configuration of the vertical Vernier, or scale could change the number.  This transit looks like a #27 also and could well be one.  There is a very nice and informative site on the Internet called The Virtual Museum of Survey History that has dating charts for many of  the major makers of surveying instruments if you need help determining the age of an instrument that you have. 

W. L. & E. Gurley of Troy New York was the dominant force in the manufacture and distribution of quality surveying instruments from the time of their inception in the mid 1800's thru today.  Their name has always been associated with top of the line quality throughout their history, and the instruments they manufactured to help build America are second to none.

All motions on this transit move freely and the compass operation is flawless. The silvered compass face is in excellent condition as well. The leveling bubbles are all good. The overall finish has a nice even patina and there are no major detractions or problems with the condition of the super piece.

Note: the plumb bob at the base, it is one of the unusual internal reel models and is being sold separately and is not included. Be sure to take a look at all the pictures, including the one of the leather covered box that this size instrument and the smaller Explorer model came in as they were meant to be carried into the field. It is nice, but has several sewn seams that are coming undone.   A nice instrument that will display nicely or be a great addition to the collection.

Good . . . . .$950.00       SOLD

W. & L. E Gurley #12 Engineers Transit   This large transit is in very nice original condition and dates from before the turn of the century or  as far as I can determine.  This simple model was offered by Gurley and has no vertical circle or even a means to lock the scope in place. Note that there is no long level under the scope as one would expect, and this is proper for the #12.   According to the catalogs I have this is proper, but they give no explanation or rational for this or where or when such a set-up would be used.

Gurley has been in the surveying instrument business since the mid 1800's and unlike many other scientific instrument makers, they only sporadically used serial #'s as a means to date or record the manufacture of their instruments.  The scope on this instrument is 11.5 inches long, and the needle on the compass is over 5".    There is a very nice and informative site on the Internet called The Virtual Museum of Survey History than has dating charts for many of  the major makers of surveying instruments, as well as a wealth of other information if you need help determining the age of or history of an instrument that you have.

Good . . . . .$750.00     SOLD

W. & L. E Gurley #76 Surveyor's / Architects Transit   This large Surveyor's transit is in very nice original condition and dates from near the turn of the century or before as far as I can determine.  Gurley has been in the surveying instrument business since the mid 1800's and unlike many other scientific instrument makers, they never, or only sporadically used serial #'s as a means to date or record the manufacture of their instruments.  The scope on this instrument is 11.5 inches long, and the needle on the compass is over 5".   The serial number on the face of the silvered & engraved compass is 9662.  Dating Gurley instruments can sometimes be a challenge as they did not always have serial #s as a guide, and if not from after 1908 then the serial # is not able to be matched exactly to a given date.  After 1908 the first two digits were typically the year of manufacture, but this is not the case with a serial # from before then.. Often times the vintage of a piece has to be determined by minor changes in construction or design features, or from something as innocuous as the picture of the factory that was often included in the box which was changed over the years as the company grew and prospered.

Even determining the exact model # can be a challenge as such small differences as the configuration of the vertical Vernier, or scale could change the model number of the transit.  This transit looks like a #76 in the illustrations of the catalog I am looking in, but could be some other designation.  Because of its size and design though, there is no doubt that is the designation of a Architects transit given it has no vertical circle.  The optics are clear, crosshairs present, and the motions are all free   The box is nice as well but as is typical shows some signs of use and age.

There is a very nice and informative site on the Internet called The Virtual Museum of Survey History that has dating charts for many of  the major makers of surveying instruments, as well as a wealth of other information if you need help determining the age of or history of an instrument that you have.

Good . . . . .$1150.00      SOLD

W. & L. E Gurley #16 Surveyor's / Engineers Transit  This large Engineers transit is in good original condition.  It has developed a rich dark patina.  It is very similar the one pictured above with the addition of a half vertical circle.  Gurley has been in the surveying instrument business since the mid 1800's and unlike many other scientific instrument makers they only sporadically used serial #'s as a means to date or record the manufacture of their instruments.  The scope on this instrument is 11.5 inches long, and the needle on the compass is 5".   Often times the vintage of a piece has to be determined by minor changes in construction or design features, or from something as innocuous as the picture of the factory that was often included in the box which was changed over the years as the company grew and prospered.  Even determining the exact model # can be a challenge as such small differences as the configuration of the vertical Vernier, or scale could change the model number of the transit.  This transit looks like a #16 in the illustrations of the catalog I am looking in, but could be some other designation.  Because of its size and design though, there is no doubt that is the designation of a Engineers transit given the vertical circle.  The optics are clear, crosshairs present, and the motions are all free but a bit stiff   The box is OK but as is typical shows signs of use and age.

Good . . . . .$750.00      SOLD

W. & L. E Gurley Surveyor's Transit   This large surveying transit is in very nice original condition and dates from before the turn of the century, and is somewhat earlier than the model above.  It has many of the same features as the one above, and I believe they would be the same model number, just from a different era.  The most noticeable differences between the two are the configuration of the standards, this one having the earlier straight A frame, and the fact that the bottom leveling base is detachable and stores separately in the box unlike later models where it is all one unit.  I do not know the exact time frame for these different changes, but they are indicative of an earlier instrument that probably dates from the 1880's or perhaps a bit earlier.    The optics are clear, crosshairs present, and the motions are all free   The box is nice as well but as is typical shows some signs of use and age.

Good . . . . .  SOLD

Gurley Engineers Transit   The needle is 4" long and the scope is 8 3/4" long. Overall the transit is approx. 12" tall.  This transit was cleaned and buffed a few years ago, and is beginning to mellow back to a less shiny state. There is a small plaque attached that says that this was once #11 of the Tenn. Highway Dept. I would guess that it dates from the early part of the last century. It comes in its original wood dovetailed box, that someone has added newer hook type hasps to as the key is gone. The tripod was refinished as well and looks great. This super looking piece displays very nicely, and will look great set up in the office or den.

Good . . . . .$895.00       SOLD

W. & L. E. Gurley Surveyor's Transit This compact little Gurley transit is by the best known and most renowned maker of surveying instruments that ever produced instruments in America. The level bubbles / vials are all good, the compass needles swings freely as it should. It seems to be fully functional, and the main detraction is the lack of finish on the aluminum protective shroud covering the vertical Vernier on the side. It is a later instrument from those above, as evidenced by the style and finish, and probably dates from after WWII. It is in as found condition and has not been cleaned or adjusted. The Mahogany box has been repaired ( as can be seen in the pics) but looks OK. It will make a nice display piece, or a good user, but I have not used it myself or tested it.

Good . . . . .$395.00      SOLD

W& L. E. Gurley Mountain & Mining Transit w/ Burt Solar Attachment   This form of surveying instrument, a transit equipped with a factory Solar Attachment or auxiliary mining scope is one of the most desirable and sought after of all surveying related devices ever offered.  The idea was that in certain areas the magnetic deviation was so great and the errors it could cause so great that these unusual and significant devices were developed as a way to compensate for this effect, and enabled the user to find a true reference or location using the horizon and the position of the sun instead of the standard methods employing just the compass. Even though the concept has been around for many years very few of them were actually made for use in the field.  Each major company that made surveying instruments had a version of their transit that came equipped with one form or another of these devices. The two best known names in this field were Gurley and Keuffel & Esser, but Berger, Buff, Dietzgen and others offered them as well for their instruments.  Different attachments were known by the name of the inventor, and the versions designed and developed by Saegmuller, Smith, & Burt being the best know attachments.     This instrument is in very nice overall condition and dates from the early part of the last century. The serial number on it indicates the date of manufacture as being 1913. It has never been cleaned and the brass has a wonderful mellow patina. Gurley was located in Troy New York at this time, and their reputation for the manufacture of quality instruments was unsurpassed.  The box and leather covering are nice as well noting some of the sewn seams coming undone and the small straps showing wear.  This Solar Transit is surely one of the most striking and graphic of forms of surveying instrument that are available not to mention one of the most avidly sought.  Rarely seen or offered for sale one of these instruments will move your collection to the head of the line.

Good . . . . .$2500.00 - 3500.00       SOLD

W& L. E. Gurley Mountain & Mining Solar Transit w/o Attachment   This Gurley light mountain transit is designed to accept a Burt Solar Attachment and has the mounting post for the solar attachment, but it is long gone.    The box and leather covering are nice.  This Solar Transit is surely one of the most striking and graphic of forms of surveying instrument that are available not to mention one of the most avidly sought.  Rarely seen or offered for sale one of these instruments will move your collection to the head of the line if you have the missing piece.  .

Good . . . . .$1095.00     SOLD

W. & L. E. Gurley #100 Reconnaissance Transit  This Gurley #100 Recon transit was designed to be carried into the field where weight and bulk were primary considerations.  It stands approx 10" tall to the top of the full circle vernier and has a 9" long scope.  It weighs about 7 lbs as opposed the #28 Light mountains 13 lbs and the differences in scale & weight are evident when set next to each other.  The 2 3/4" tripod size is also smaller than the light mountain transit uses.   The optics are good, and there is one vertical and 3 horizontal crosshairs.

This transit would date approx from the last quarter of the 1800's to before 1908 and like many Gurley instruments carries no serial # thus making exact dating a task at times.  Gurley did not begin to use serial #'s until 1908.   There is a very nice and informative site on the Internet called The Virtual Museum of Survey History than has dating charts for many of  the major makers of surveying instruments if you need help determining the age of an instrument that you have.   

All motions move freely and the compass operation is OK. The silvered compass face is nice as well with the name and location above the North Fleur d' Leis. The leveling bubbles are all good. The overall finish of natural brass looks good and is original with a nice rich patina.

W. L. & E. Gurley of Troy New York was the dominant force in the manufacture and distribution of quality surveying instruments from the time of their inception in the mid 1800's thru today.  Their name has always been associated with top of the line quality throughout their history, and the instruments they manufactured to help build America are second to none.  This size transit is not seen often and is offered for sale even less often.  Be sure to take a look at all the pictures, including the ones of the box.   A nice instrument that will display nicely or be a great addition to the collection.

Good+ . . . . . .$850.00     SOLD!

W& L. E. Gurley #17 Engineers Surveying Transit w/ Burt Solar Attachment   This is a Gurley engineers solar transit equipped with a factory and properly marked Burt Patent Solar Attachment.  Solar transits are one of the most desirable and sought after of all surveying instruments to be found.   They are graphic, historically important, rare, and represent an important aspect of surveying history.

This example is a  #17 Engineers transit with a 11" scope and has a large and commanding presence that will make for a great display piece.  It has a 5" needle, and a 6" half vernier circle that reads to 20 degrees. It weighs close to 18 lbs or almost twice what a similar looking but smaller light mountain or recon transit would weigh.  The picture below on the right gives you an idea of just how large and commanding this transit is compared to a recon size Gurley.   The optional / auxiliary side mount level is present as well. The adjusting tool is also stored in the box.

This instrument is in very nice overall condition and dates from the early part of the last century. There is no serial number and so predates 1908 when Gurley started to use them.  It has never been cleaned and the brass has a wonderful mellow patina.   The box is nice as well noting just some scuffing on the exterior. All motions and the screw are free.  The compass works, and the silvered compass face is very nice.   

The idea behind solar instruments, either transits or compasses, was that in certain areas the magnetic deviation was so great, and the errors it could cause so great, that these unusual and significant devices were developed as a way to compensate for this effect.  The Burt Solar attachment was first Patented in the 1830's to be used on solar compasses.  Gurley later bought the rights and offered this style with their instruments.  . A solar instrument enabled the user to find a true reference or location using the horizon and the position of the sun instead of the standard method employing the compass. Even though the concept had been around and employed in seafaring navigation for centuries, very few of them were actually made for use in the field w/ transits or compasses.  They are very rare.

Each major surveying instrument maker made a transit that came equipped with one form or another of these devices. The best known names in the surveying instrument field were Gurley and Keuffel & Esser, but Berger, Buff, Dietzgen, Lietz, Sala, and others offered versions of a solar transit.  Different attachments are typically known by the name of the inventor, and the examples designed and developed by Saegmuller, Smith, & Burt being the best known solar attachments.  The Saegmuller and the Smith utilized secondary small scopes, while the Burt design more closely resembled a octant or sextant in design and used a peep site. 

Gurley was located in Troy New York at this time, and their reputation for the manufacture of quality instruments was unsurpassed.   This Solar Transit is surely one of the most striking and graphic of forms of surveying instrument that are available not to mention one of the most avidly sought by collectors.  Rarely seen or offered for sale in this large size, this transit is the piece that will move your collection to the head of the line.  A super piece.

Good+ . . . . . .$2500.00 - 4000.00      SOLD!

W. & L. E.  Gurley Surveyors Transit  This large and early W & L. E. Gurley Surveyors transit has straight A frame standards which would indicate it dates from the 1880s or before.  The finish, a bronzed or green lacquer is original and 95% or better.  It looks great contrasting with the bright brass knobs and thumbscrews. This instrument had been in the same family for over 4 generations and the overall original condition is exceptional.   The dovetailed mahogany box  is nice as well.

This early transit has an 11" Scope and a 5" compass needle making it one of the larger transits Gurley offered.  They also came with 4 and 6" needles.  The optics are perfect, and the crosshairs are present with 3 horizontal and one vertical.  The 3 different leveling bubbles are all good with original blue fluid.  All motions on this transit move freely and the compass operation is flawless.  The silvered compass face is in excellent condition and the engraving is crisp and bold.  The Troy NY location is at the bottom of the compass which is another indication of the early manufacture.  This transit has an unusually small 3" vertical circle that must have been special ordered.  Typically you see larger vernier circles on instruments this large. It gives it a nice look.  Note that the tangent screws are not spring loaded and are on top of the plate..  This is another indication of its early manufacture. 

Exact dating  of earlier Gurley instruments can be difficult.  Gurley did not use serial numbers until after 1908.  There is a very nice and informative site on the Internet called The Virtual Museum of Survey History than has dating charts for many of the major makers of surveying instruments.  If you need help determining the age of an instrument that you have that is the place to go.  They go into quite a bit of detail trying to help date Gurley transits, but it is an inexact science at best. 

W. L. & E. Gurley of Troy New York was the dominant force in the manufacture and distribution of quality surveying instruments from the time of their inception in the mid 1800's. Their name was always been associated with top of the line quality products and the surveying related instruments they manufactured to help build America are second to none. Be sure to take a look at all the pictures to get a sense of the exceptional condition this instrument is in.    A nice instrument that is a piece of American history, and will display nicely or be a great addition to the growing collection.

Fine . . . . . . .$1200.00     SOLD!

W. & L. E.  Gurley Surveyors Transit  This early Gurley A frame standard transit is in very nice original condition. It has a 4" needle and would be the smallest size transit Gurley offered at this time.  They also came with 5 and 6 " needles.  As can be seen from the 2 labels in the lid of the box it hails from Little Falls NY which is close to the home base of Gurley in Troy NY. 

The compass face is not marked Gurley but it is obviously a Gurley instrument.  It is hand engraved, and has a SS and #3 stamped under the compass needle rosette.  I have been told those initials are those of Seneca Stephens a Gurley master instrument maker in Gurley's employ.  The #3 could be an indicator that this instrument was made in 1873 when considered with the other early features this transit exhibits.   I am not sure why Gurley did not mark it with their name before leaving the factory.  Other features indicating its early manufacture are the fact that the tangent lock is found atop of the plate, and is not spring loaded.  The straight A frame standards confirms this as does the style of the box, and the fact that tripod mount / leveling base is removable and stored separately in the box.   

The optics are OK, but some of the spider web crosshairs have some loose and small strands besides the main crosshairs can be seen when sighting it.  All the motions are free, and all bubbles with original colored fluid are good.  It has a full circle silvered vertical vernier and the horizontal limb has two viewing windows for the vernier there. 

The compass needle is 4", and the compass face measures about 5". making the the smallest standard size transit Gurley offered at this time.    It has a smaller than typical tripod mount with the center male threaded portion being 1 1/4 and the outer ring measuring 2 3/4". The box is OK  The leather strap is broken.    The fixed leg tripod, which is included in the price, is OK but appears to have a replaced leg, and another one of the thin legs is wrapped in old black friction tape.  It might be a repair, or there as an ID marker.  I did not remove it to see.

A very nice looking and hard to find early Gurley transit in original finish and patina that will display very nicely.

Good+ . . . . . . . $950.00      SOLD!

W. & L. E.  Gurley Vernier Transit  This early Gurley A frame transit is a very nice looking instrument. . It is a large early vernier transit w/  a 5" needle and 11" scope. This transit looks very similar to one pictured in the 1883 Twenty Fourth edition of the Gurley Manual and is identified in Fig 19 as a vernier transit compass. Gurley describes this simple arrangement as being useful for long sightings where a scope would provide benefits over the use of standard sight vanes on a surveyors compass.    The vernier adjustment / tangent lock is mounted on the top of the plate are not spring loaded which is another indication of its early manufacture.  The adjuster and stop operate properly, but the plate and vernier themselves are very stiff and it does not swing freely as it should.  The other motions and screws are all free and operate properly. 

There is no serial number on this instrument although some pieces are stamped with the #12 which I believe is the employee makers mark.  Gurley did not use serial numbers until after 1908. I believe it dates from even earlier than 1883 given some of its features, but it is very hard to determine the exact age of Gurley instruments from this period. 

 The compass works well, and the silvered face is very nice.  The face appears to be hand engraved also confirming its early manufacture date of pre 1880.  The large level under the scope is full, but appears to be a later replacement as does one of the vials in the lower levels.  The two lower level vials are full, but one is clear, and one blue. The optics are good.   The box is not original to the instrument and has been repaired.   The tripod is nice, proper, and included in the price, It is a 60" stiff leg model in very nice condition.  The mount size is 4".

A very nice looking and hard to find early Gurley compass / transit in original finish and patina that will display very nicely.

Good . . . . . . .$750.00     SOLD!!

1880's W. & L. E. Gurley Engineer's Transit w/ Theodolite Axis  The Gurley A Frame Transit / Theodolite w/ wye frame axis pictured here is a rare, early and unusual variation that W. & L. E. Gurley offered in their earliest catalogs and dropped from the line in the 1880's.  The original condition is fantastic.  It is the only example I have ever seen in person.

A description of this transits features and its intended uses can be found in early Gurley catalog entries from this era which are available online.  There is a similar example pictured and described in the Skerritt book that cataloged the Charles Smart collection of antique surveying instruments.  Skerritt rates this form transit as a 9 / very rare in the scheme of things.  Most other more typical instruments from the same era get 6 - 8 ratings.   There is no serial number on this instrument but the plate does have a engraved #46 in a diamond on it.  Gurley did not use serial numbers until after 1908.

This Gurley Engineers Transit w/ Wye Axis has  a 5" needle and 11" scope. The compass works well, and the silvered compass face is very nice. The face appears to be hand engraved with the Troy NY location at the top indicating its manufacture date of around 1880 or a bit later.  The vernier adjustments / tangent lock is mounted on the top of the plate and are not spring loaded which is another indication of its early manufacture.  The adjuster and stop operate properly, as do all other motions and screws.  The thumb screw to lock the motion of the scope looks to have an early repair and is operable and stable.  The large level under the scope is empty.  The two lower level vials are full.  The image is erect and optics are crystal clear.  There is one vertical and 3 horizontal crosshairs.  The box is original to the instrument and very nice.

A very nice looking and hard to find early Gurley transit / theodolite with a very unusual set-up in original finish and patina that will display very nicely and make for a great addition to the advanced surveying instrument collection.

Fine . . . . . . .$2000.00 - 3000.00   SOLD!!

Gurley Alidade   This Gurley Alidade is in like new condition.   From the serial #573195 and using the dating chart I have provided a link to elsewhere on this page we can deduce it was made in 1957 and was the 3,195th instrument produced that year.  It is a very nice, complete and dressed out example.  The right angle eyepiece is present, there is a sun shade, the striding level is here and nice, as well as a loop and dust cover.  This alidade is also outfitted with the Beaman Stadia Arc an accessory that was first patented and offered near the turn of the century for use on either alidades or transits to make stadia calculations easier to compute or figure.   It will make for a great user  for mapping, road layout, etc. or or it will be a nice addition to the collection. 

I also have the large (24" x 31" Gurley Plane table w/ canvas cover and the proper or matching Johnson head tripod to make this a complete outfit. They will be found listed separately on the tripod page.

Excellent . . . . . . .$495.00       SOLD!

W. & L. E. Gurley Engineers / Surveyor's Transit w/ Double Mark F. W. Lincoln Jr. / Boston Mass  This large early and unusually marked Gurley transit is in very nice original condition.  This transit is double marked under the glass with the second name F. W. Lincoln Jr./ Boston Mass.  He is listed in Smart's book on Surveying, as an instrument maker and also has a short bio and a compass he made pictured at the site www.Surveyhistory.org   At the bottom of this ad is an excerpt from the bio from Smarts from that survey history site.

This engineers /surveying transit dates from before 1883 when Lincoln sold the business.  There is no serial # under the glass, but upon examination there is a #17 stamped in several places.   Other early features include the straight A shaped legs or standards holding the scope, also the tangent lock is found atop of the plate, and is not spring loaded.  In addition to making his own instruments Lincoln must have contracted out to Gurley for special pieces or to meet the high demand during this period.  This is the first of these I have seen, and Smart does not mention any double marked examples in his book.

The scope measures just about 11" and it stands approx 12" tall.  .The compass needle is 5 inches, and the compass face measures about 6".  The compass face is hand engraved, and the location Troy NY is at the bottom near the south point another indication of its early manufacture. The silvered face is nice, and engraving is very nice.   The optics are clear, and the crosshairs are present but the vertical appears to be off center to my eye.  All  motions are free, and all 3 level bubbles are original and good with the typical blue liquid filling.  The dovetailed Mahogany box is nice and has been nicely refinished .  The leather strap is a new replacement and looks good as well.  A very nice looking piece that will display very nicely in most any setting with its original patina..

Good+ . . . . . . .$950.00         SOLD!

W. & L. E. Gurley Engineers / Surveyor's Solar Transit  This large, early, and unusual Gurley transit is in very nice original condition.  This engineers / surveying solar transit dates from 1880.  There is no serial # under the glass, but upon examination the 1880 date is stamped inside under the main plate.  It is also stamped #10 there.  Other features that indicate early manufacture and help date this include the straight A shaped legs or standards holding the scope.  Also the tangent lock is found atop of the plate, and is not spring loaded.

This transit is set up for a Burt Solar Attachment with the post seen on the top of the scope to accept it.  There is a place for it in the box, but the attachment itself has gone missing.  The scope measures just about 11" and the transit stands approx 12" tall.   The compass face is hand engraved, and the Troy NY location  is at the top with the Gurley name. The silvered face is nice, and engraving is very nice.  The compass face measures about 6" and the compass needle is 5 inches.  It works properly as does the lifer lock for it.   The original green lacquer finish is well over 90%.  It is not paint, but rather colored lacquer to help keep down the glare.  It has a great look and appeal. The optics are clear, and the crosshairs are present.  All  motions are free, and all 3 level bubbles are original and good with the typical early blue liquid filling.  The dovetailed Mahogany box is nice noting the one crack across the top.  The leather strap is a replacement. The tripod is in super nice condition as well and looks great with its tapered legs.  Some of the threads are a bit banged up, but the transit does thread on OK.  

Again, the condition of this Gurley Solar Transit is exceptional.  With a proper Burt attachment this instrument would be worth 3 - 4 times the price I am asking. A very nice looking instrument that will display very nicely in most any setting.

Good+ . . . . . . .$1095.00          SOLD!!

W. & L. E.  Gurley #100 Reconnaissance Transit  The Gurley #100 Reconnaissance transit is very small and lightweight when compared to the light mountain size transit or the even larger engineer and surveyor size transits Gurley offered.  It was designed to be carried into and used in the field where weight and bulk were primary considerations.  It stands approx. 10" tall to the top of the full circle vernier and has a 9" long scope. It weighs about 7 lbs. as opposed the 13 lb. a #28 Light mountain size transit weighs.  The differences in scale & weight are clearly evident when set next to each other. The 2 3/4" tripod mount size, and the tripod itself also much smaller than the tripod the light mountain and other transits use.

This transit has no serial number which would date it from before 1908.  The bent A frame standards would date it from after 1880.  The green lacquer finish over brass is original and near perfect. The vertical circle is silvered and nice.  All motions move freely and the compass operation is good.  The optics are clear, and the crosshairs, 3 horizontal, and one vertical are present  The silvered compass face is nice as well with the name and Troy NY location above the North Fleur d' Leis. The leveling bubbles are all good. The optics are clear and good.  The box is in excellent condition and so are the linings inside.  The original plumb bob, sunshade and a few small adjusting tools are also present.  The small lightweight tripod shown in the first pics is included and it looks great noting that one leg bracket clamp is broken.  This will not affect casual use or displaying it. 

This size transit is not seen often and is offered for sale even less often. Be sure to take a look at all the pictures, including the ones of the box and the instrument mounted on the tripod. A nice instrument that will display nicely or be a great addition to the collection.

Fine . . . . . . .$795.00          SOLD!!

W. & L. E.  Gurley Vernier Engineer's Transit  This early W. & L. E. Gurley surveying instrument dates from the mid to late 1800's and would be considered Civil War era.  It is a very early instrument in the scheme of things as denoted by the straight A frame Legs of the standards, the extra long scope which can not turn a full circle within the standards, and the hand engraved compass plate. 

The elongated length of the scope does not have the ability to turn a full circle within the standards as later instruments are able to do. When this instrument was produced the design for surveying instrument optics was still evolving and had not yet been fully perfected.  The optics are clear.  The scope measures nearly 13" long.  The needle is 6" and swings freely.  The engraved and silvered compass face is very nice with the Troy location at the bottom.      The original box is solid and pretty nice noting missing finish in areas.  Please check all the pics.  This is a large, graphic, and historically important early surveyors / engineers transit displays very nicely and will make for a fine addition to any collection.  

Good + . . . . . . .$995.00          SOLD!!

W. & L. E. Gurley Transit w/ Optical Plummet  This Gurley transit with optical plummet is in like new condition.  I even have the original cardboard shipping box from Gurley which I have not shown in the pics. The serial # is TY1482. dating this piece from 1960's or so.  The needle works properly and is 3 1/2"  The scope is 10" and it has a 5" vertical circle.  The Mahogany box with dovetailed corners is very nice, and inside are the marked screwdriver, instruction pamphlet, magnifier, oil bottle, and more.  The green matte finish on this transit is near perfect. and I believe from the weight of this instrument that it is made of Aluminum.  A nice instrument that will display nicely and be a great addition to the collection or is ready to use in the field. There is no tripod!!

Fine . . . . . $695.00       . SOLD!!

Gurley Transit  This Gurley transit was sold as surplus from a college that either discontinued their engineering program or upgraded to more modern instruments.  It dates from the early 60's.  It is a well made precision instrument.  The overall condition is nice and it appears to have led an easy life spending most of its time on the shelf and not in the field. It is very light and i believe the body is made of aluminum.  The optics are clear, and the crosshairs present. The compass is operational. It has a full vernier circle.  One lower plate level bubble is dead and will need to be replaced.  All other motions are free and I see no other issues. The flip up top Mahogany box is nice as well.   It takes a 3 1/2 x 8 tripod.   It will make a great user for the  general contractor or casual user. 

Good +  . . . . .$395.00        SOLD!!

W. & L. E.  Gurley #100 Reconnaissance Transit  The Gurley #100 Reconnaissance transit is very small and lightweight when compared to the light mountain size transit or the even larger engineer size transits Gurley offered.  It was designed to be carried into the field where weight and bulk were primary considerations.  It stands approx. 10" tall to the top of the full circle vernier and has a 9" long scope. It weighs about 7 lbs. as opposed the 13 lb. a #28 Light mountain size transit weighs.  The differences in scale & weight are evident when set next to each other. The 2 3/4" tripod mount size is also much smaller than the tripod the light mountain transit uses.

This transits serial # is 201337 which would date it from 1920. Gurley begin to use serial #'s until 1908.  The green lacquer finish over brass is original and looks good with a nice rich patina. The vertical circle is silvered and nice.  All motions move freely and the compass operation is good.  The silvered compass face is nice as well with the name and location above the North Fleur d' Leis. The leveling bubbles are all good. The optics are clear and good.

This size transit is not seen often and is offered for sale even less often. Be sure to take a look at all the pictures, including the ones of the box. A nice instrument that will display nicely or be a great addition to the collection.

Good+ . . . . . . .  $995.00     SOLD!!

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