A professional Class A marine sextant manufactured in England by Kelvin Hughes, complete with its original fitted wooden case and an accompanying National Physical Laboratory (NPL), Teddington test certificate dated 25 April 1967.
The sextant bears clear engraved maker’s marks to the brass arc, confirming manufacture by Kelvin Hughes (Smith & Sons, England), one of Britain’s most respected suppliers of professional navigational instruments. The instrument retains its optical components, micrometer drum, graduated arc, shades, and fittings, housed within the original compartmented case with green baize lining.
The original NPL certificate confirms the sextant was examined and approved as a Class A instrument, the highest classification for precision marine navigation. The certificate includes original handwritten ink entries, notably the instrument number (69962) and the name “Kelvin Hughes”, confirming that the sextant was submitted for testing under the manufacturer’s name rather than through later third-party certification. Formal authorisation is provided by the Director of the National Physical Laboratory, in keeping with standard NPL practice.
At the time, the National Physical Laboratory was the United Kingdom’s leading authority for scientific measurement and calibration, and its certification represents the benchmark for professional navigational instruments. During its history, the laboratory counted figures of major scientific importance among its staff, including Sir Charles Galton Darwin; while there is no direct personal association with this instrument, the institutional context underscores the significance of NPL certification.
🌿 Professional British marine sextant
🌿 Manufactured by Kelvin Hughes, England
🌿 Class A navigational instrument
🌿 Certified by the National Physical Laboratory (1967)
🌿 Original handwritten NPL certificate entries
🌿 Instrument number 69962
🌿 Original fitted wooden case with baize lining
Condition
Good original condition, consistent with professional maritime use. The sextant appears structurally complete, with expected surface wear and patination. The wooden case shows age-related scuffs, marks, and wear to the baize lining. Optical clarity and calibration have not been recently tested, and the instrument is offered as an original, historically certified navigational instrument rather than a guaranteed working tool.
Our Antique Forager Ethos
We source antique and vintage pieces for their craftsmanship, character and individuality, selecting only those that stand out and carry a story worthy of passing on.
Shipping
Free UK postage. Worldwide delivery available — rates vary by destination and weight. Shipping costs are calculated at checkout. Every item is carefully packed and insured.
