Surveyor's Instrument with Original Red Metal Case

David White Meridian level transit, model 8080, serial no. 100872, in its original red metal David White Instruments carry case. It was made by Realist Inc. of Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, U.S.A. The instrument has a telescope with focusing knob, a vertical arc with vernier, a 360 degree horizontal circle with vernier, a bubble level vial, and levelling and tangent screws, all mounted on the black base plate of the case. Condition shows paint chips and scuffs to the red case and light wear to the instrument finish consistent with age and use. | | *David White level transits were a standard tool for builders, contractors and surveyors across North America for decades, and the Meridian 8080 is a well-regarded American-made model for grading, foundations, fence lines and landscaping. Complete examples in the original steel case remain in demand with tradespeople as working tools and with collectors of vintage survey instruments.