W. Ottway & Co. Ltd., Brass Gunsighting Telescope, First World War Era

A First World War British military gunsighting telescope, manufactured by W. Ottway & Co. Ltd. of Ealing, London, dated 1916. This heavy-gauge brass instrument was likely designed for naval or heavy field artillery use. The barrel is extensively engraved with maker and technical details, including: W. OTTWAY & CO LTD / EALING. 1916. / GUNSIGHTING PATENT, V.P. 5 to 15 indicating variable power, Nº 3360, and Nº 23. It features the British War Department broad arrow (pheon) property mark and various scale markings (5, 5.15, 7, 9, 11, and 13). Additional stampings include W A/T and a circular inspector’s proof mark. The telescope is equipped with a large knurled rotational collar for focal or power adjustment and two fixed mounting trunnions for attachment to a sighting bracket. Total quantity: 1. Length approximately 26.5 inches (67.3 cm).