Original Imperial Japanese WWII Engineer Surveyor Theodolite in Original Transit Case by Toko - Serial No. 105 - Dated 1945

Original Item. Only One Available. A theodolite is a precision optical instrument for measuring angles between designated visible points in the horizontal and vertical planes. The traditional use has been for land surveying, but it is also used extensively for building and infrastructure construction, and some specialized applications such as meteorology and rocket launching.

It consists of a moveable telescope mounted so it can rotate around horizontal and vertical axes and provide angular readouts. These indicate the orientation of the telescope, and are used to relate the first point sighted through the telescope to subsequent sightings of other points from the same theodolite position. Depending on the instrument, these angles can be measured with accuracies down to microradians or seconds of arc. From these readings a plan can be drawn, or objects can be positioned in accordance with an existing plan. The modern theodolite has evolved into what is known as a total station where angles and distances are measured electronically, and are read directly to computer memory.

This is an outstanding Japanese WWII Theodolite, manufactured by TOKO in 1945, according to the marking on the interior of the case lid, 二十昭, for Showa 20, the 20th year of the Showa Era, 1945.

The set is in good functional condition, and we were able to see a very tinted view of across the street. The set swivels well and is very heavy. The set sits well in the case with a piece that screws into the side of the crate to hold it in place. There are several slots for accessories in the case which are now missing, lost very long ago. Much of the green felt protective layer has been eaten away at by moths. The case measures 9 ½ x 14 x 15 ¾” and is in good condition with heavy wear, and the lettering to the lid is too worn to translate. 

The case originally had two long leather straps meant for carrying, but one is entirely gone and the other is present but very weak. The carry handle to the top still works. 

A very scarce piece of equipment, ready for further research and display.