Dennert & Pape (Altona-Hamburg) Antique Solid Brass Cartographic Transversal & Reduction Scale, c. 1890–1905

A rare survivor from the golden age of German precision instrument making: a solid brass transversal and reduction scale (Proportionslineal) by Dennert & Pape of Altona-Hamburg, the very firm that would later become world-famous for its ARISTO slide rules.

- Engraved with the early arched maker's mark "DENNERT & PAPE / ALTONA"
- Cartographic scale divisions including 1:1000, 1:2000 and Cos 0–250.0
- Sliding vernier (nonius) reader with fine adjustment, still present and functioning — the single part most often missing from surviving sets
- Complete in its original fitted wooden case with velvet lining and working clasps

Made around 1890–1905, before the firm's move to celluloid and plastic, this set represents the brass era most prized by collectors of antique surveying, drafting and mathematical instruments. Because brass darkens with age, sets like this are easily overlooked as ordinary schoolroom rulers — but the engraving, the maker's name and above all the complete sliding vernier cursor make this a genuinely desirable find for collectors in Europe, the US and Japan.

Weight approx. 1206 g including case. Case dimensions approx. 41 x 11 x 4 cm.