Presented is a high quality C. Plath, bronze frame, quintant in exceptional condition having most of its varnish and midnight black lacquer coating. Its original certificate was issued by the Deutsche Seewarte in 1928 and matches its serial number, 11511. The certificate translation says is should be considered error free for practical use which is unusual for this period. A "Button type" quick release clamp is a unique feature and was only fitted to this and the first sextant made by Plath when they again commenced sextant production in 1949 after WW II.

It has a 3 1/2 power scope, and a sighting tube for shooting terrestrial objects. The adjustable rising piece allows moving the distance of the telescope from the frame which makes the horizon more distinct under varying light conditions.The bronze arc is calibrated -5 to +155 degrees with a vernier that reads from the right, from 0 to 10 arc seconds. The Serial Number 11511 is engraved on the left lower of the arc and just above an old style “Sun Shooter“ logo as on earlier designs of this make. The sextant has four index shades and three horizon shades.

 

A quintant has a range of arc of 144° compared to a sextant which reads to 90°. This was helpful in measuring Lunar Distances, which was a means of determining longitude without a chronometer.

Horizon Mirror and three shades

Index Mirror and four shades

Serial No. 11511 above Sun Shooter logo

Vernier with "Push Bottom" clamp below

CONDITION: Considering its age this quintant is in exceptionally fine condition having about ninety eight percent of its original lacquered, midnight black finish, and most of its varnish remaining. It shows very little use. The index mirror at the very top and bottom edge has some corrosion, but the viewing surface is clear and sharp. The horizon mirror is in mostly good condition. Both sets of shades (filters) are perfect. The mirror adjustment tool and brush are present as are two filters for the telescopes.

 

THE CASE: The instrument is housed in a tongue and groove, teak wood case with stainless hardware. Due to shrinking, the depth of the sides are shorter at the rear making a 1/8" ledge along the top. The original adjustment wrench, brush and key are included. Inside is a plate with the Plath "Sun Shooter" logo and an address at 25 Stubbenhuk 25, Hamburg above the instruments certificate. The case, except for some scratches on its top and bottom, is in excellent condition with a nice patina of age to its finish. The telescope filters not seen in the case are mounted on the scopes.

 

Housed in a sturdy Teak wood case

 

This is the only example of this model Plath quintant we have seen. They are not even pictured in museum collections such as those at Greenwich, England. It will make a rare addition to an important collection or as a gift of importance.