Hilger Watts Theodolite Manual Page

Lock the lower clamp and tighten the plate clamp.

Secure the theodolite to the tripod head using the central fixing screw.

“Always store the theodolite with the vertical clamp slightly loose and the horizontal clamp tight. This prevents differential thermal stress on the axis.” hilger watts theodolite manual

Hilger & Watts was a premier British manufacturer of precision optical and scientific instruments. Active throughout the mid-20th century, the company earned a global reputation for producing incredibly robust, accurate, and reliable surveying equipment.

Do not over-lubricate. Only use high-grade instrument oil on rotating parts, as improper oil can solidify in cold weather [2]. 6. Tips for Using Vintage Equipment Lock the lower clamp and tighten the plate clamp

Unlike modern digital theodolites, Hilger Watts models use a complex optical micrometer to interpolate between the graduation marks on the glass circles. The manual provides the exact procedure for:

Gathers incoming light; usually protected by a removable metal or leather cap. This prevents differential thermal stress on the axis

These instruments are vintage precision tools. They require specific care that modern total stations do not.

Sight the first point, release the horizontal circle clamp, and turn the scale to zero using the micrometer knob [2].