Henry Hughes & Son Ltd. London, "Husun" Sextant

Exceptional quality "Husun" sextant made by “Henry Hughes & Son, Ltd., 59 Fenchurch Street, London E.C.” as engraved on the large arc. This all brass navigational instrument has a classic "Husun" “3 circle” frame in a black powder-coated finish. The traditional inlaid silver scale is marked from -5 to 150 degrees in single increments.  The instrument is complete with 4 index and 3 horizon filters. Ebonized wood handle with plain ivory plate.  The machine-dovetailed box is solid mahogany in beautiful condition with all accessories including a small bottle of whale oil, a skeleton key for the box lock, a mirror adjusting tool and a screw-on eyepiece sun filter. The Kelvin & Hughes repair and overhaul invoice describes the acquisition as following: 3 circle sextant No. 9650, overhauled and reconditioned. Re-certified and the following new parts supplied: Two shade heads, one 2 1/2 X star telescope, 5 X inverting telescope, transit case.  The lid interior houses the “Certificate of Examination by Kelvin & Hughes Limited”   It is signed and dated 8/7/52, the date of having this sextant overhauled. We are not aware of the sextants date of manufacture, but is much earlier than the repair date.  The box measures 10 ½ by 11 by 5 5/8 inches. Comes with the documents and correpondents between the sextant owner and Kelvin & Hughes (Marine) Limited from 1952 and 53. Immaculate, like new shape!

THE JAMESTOWN-YORKTOWN FOUNDATION

The deed of gift from the family that donated this nautical object, stipulated that the proceeds of the sale would support the Jamestown Settlement sailing program. Private funding has an essential role in supporting the largely volunteer nature of this effort. Along with three paid staff members, up to 35 individuals volunteer 10,000 hours each year to maintain and sail these historic ships.