This is a 1/12th scale model of the Dorpat telescope. It was built by William Gould for the National Geographic Society’s Centennial Celebration. The original telescope was built in 1826 by Joseph von Fraunhofer for the Dorpat Observatory, and was one of the largest of its kind; you can appreciate its scale by noting the chair in the CAD model. Gould built this 15″ tall model in his well appointed machine shop that includes Bridgeport and Aceria mills, a watchmaker’s lathe and hand engravers dating back to 1917.
This is precision model making on an almost unfathomable level. Gould’s skill and workmanship leave me speechless.
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Be still my heart! Man, that’s purdy.
I had one of his Brownhoist wreck crane models. It was without a doubt the finest plastic model kit I’ve ever seen. Not sure if I still have it or not, I’ve moved many times since then.
I’m glad I live in Tartu where the Dorpat Observatory locates :D