View single post by John Trier
 Posted: Sat May 24th, 2014 03:49 pm
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John Trier



Joined: Fri Feb 10th, 2006
Location: Adel, Iowa USA
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 Just one more thing……..   I have collected surveying instruments as well as fans.   Both have something in common.    They were both used, and used hard.   Surveying compasses were carried into the field in the rain and the mud, handled and handled relentlessly.    Even in well cared for condition, they carry a high degree of patina.  Fans are the same ……. used, year after year and as a result will also obtain a grand patina, even if well cared for.   Microscopes are different.  I feel, even during their day, among  those that used them,  they could have wore white gloves with respect for their instrument.  They are often found in pristine original condition with grand walnut storage boxes. 

One important distinction is also the fact that certain fans are common, in comparison.   There are plenty of 1902 pancakes for both camps.  But when it comes to rare fans from the 1890’s,  that is a different matter and collectors really need to think about how, or if, these fans are handled.   Pictured is a rare pillared transit in “as found” condition.  To polish it in anyway, would ruin it’s value and no knowledgeable collector would accept this instrument in polished condition. 

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