This early Soviet issue piece displays all the typical features expected on a naval sextant of its era. Note in particular the early-model telescope and plain sight tube both of which are fitted into specially provided nests inside the box. The frame and arc are painted olive drab. The box measures 11.5" x 11.5" x 4.5" and has the exterior covered in maroon water-repellent paint.

Attached on the inside lid behind Plexiglass

This early Soviet issue piece displays all the typical features expected on a naval sextant of its era. Note in particular the early-model telescope and plain sight tube both of which are fitted into specially provided nests inside the box. The frame and arc are painted olive drab. The box measures 11.5" x 11.5" x 4.5" and has the exterior covered in maroon water-repellent paint.

Attached on the inside lid behind Plexiglass holders are a factory specification sheet and, importantly, a photo of the contents exactly as seen when the sextant left the factory. The photo shows the original military unit inspection and calibration certificate with what appears to be a 1950 date; this leads us to believe that the sextant was manufactured in 1950 at the latest. Included is also a separate calibration certificate issued on 30 May 1964 in the town of Lomonosov (formerly known as Oranienbaum, located on the Gulf of Finland near Leningrad) when the device was last inspected and forwarded to a naval unit. The latter is identified only by its code number 20835, but the Internet search shows that it was the Naval Navigational Equipment Workshop which in the late 60s would become 780 RZ TSK Factory for Naval Navigational Equipment Repairs (Military Unit #51243).

) The sextant is in what appears to be very good working condition. The mirrors and shades appear to be fully intact and functional; all the knobs and screws are present; the optics of the telescope are clear. There is only minimal wear to the olive-drab paint. Some of the extraneous pieces mentioned in the specification sheet - such as screwdriver, brush, felt etc. - are not present, but all the essential parts are included.

The box shows wear and scuffs to the exterior but is still very sound and free of cracks. At some point, it had a metal manufacturer's tag attached on the inside but later removed. A couple of screws are missing, and so are the latches, but the box remains fully functional and overall intact.

A Classic and indispensable navigational instrument as issued to Soviet submarines and surface ships. This device was used by the submarine or ship's navigator, in conjunction with his celestial globe, to plot his position at night. Originating from XVIII C., the sextant remains a key piece of marine navigational equipment to this day. The early Soviet model is very scarce and is a highly sought after collector item.

Please note, Navy officer hat badge in our photo is for size reference.
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