AN HISTORICALLY INTERESTING 2IN. ACHROMATIC MARINE TELESCOPE BY J. & H. WATKINS, CHARING CROSS, LONDON WITH PRESENTATION INSCRIPTION FROM CAPTAIN EDWARD PELLEW, H.M.S. Indefatigable 1797
with tapering main tube, lens with cap, signed by the eyepiece as per title and inscribed To Lt. G Bell mark of respect from his Capt. Edward Pellew for his good look out on the night of 13th January 1797 -- 34½in. (87.5cm.) long (closed)

The Indefatigable (44) is probably the ship most famously associated with Pellew. Cruising in company with the Amazon (36) on the 13th January 1797, they spotted the superior French 74, Droits de l'Homme. In what should have been a fairly easy victory for the Frenchman, the small British vessels took advantage of the stormy conditions. After 13 hours of combat, running out of ammunition, the British broke contact when Indefatigable sighted land ahead. Despite having damage to her masts and rigging, the Indefatigable managed to beat off the lee shore and escape the treacherous Penmarch reefs; Amazon and Droits de l'Homme ran aground near Plozévet, with Amazon destroyed and her crew being captured. This telescope was undoubtedly presented to the officer who spotted this danger, thereby saving one of England's great naval heroes.

Condition Report
signature and inscription very worn, main tube split/crack with 13in. hairline crack, optically in fine condition

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.