1989 Plath Sextant
This first sextant is perhaps the ultimate evolution of the instrument. Purchased by it's original owner in 1989 it features the most modern inovations in sextant technology. It is made by Plath, generally considered the best sextants on the market. With the development of electronic navigation and the Global Positioning System(GPS) it is unlikely sextant development will ever surpass this example.
1937 Plath Sextant
Plath sextants have been manufactured since 1926, the sextant featured below is a wonderful early example of the high quality sextants. Dated 1937, this Plath sextant is worth comparing to the 1989 model above. Many of the similarities and differences mark significant developments in the sextant. For those interested in historical significance, close inspection of the label inside the box appear to reveal a stamp associated with the Third Reich, an eagle and swastika. Unfortunately, I only have the photo to examine so I am not certain the symbol is what it appears to be and I can only speculate as to why it is on the label.
1937 Plath
Picture provided by:John Farley, Antique Dealer,
Troy, NY;
e-Mail: johnfarley@aol.com; phone:
(518)233-8215"
1800's Octant
The instrument below is a close cousin to the sextant, the octant. Sometimes called the Hadley quadrant after the man who first purposed it's design. These instruments gained favor with navigators in the mid to late 18th century and remained in use until the early 20th century(by some accounts). The sextant surpassed the octant as the lunar distance method of determining position gained popularity and sextant construction techniques produced higher quality instruments. This octant is likely from the Mid 19th century. It is made of ebony, ivory, and brass.
Mid 19th century Octant
WWII era Japanese Sextant
The instrument below is a World War II era sextant made in Japan by Yamaya & Co. It's design and construction are very similar to many on the market today.
WWII era Yamaya & Co
