WW2 RAF Flying Boat Sextant – Henry Hughes & Son – Air Ministry 6B/177 – 1945
A compact and historically interesting Second World War RAF Air Ministry flying-boat sextant, manufactured by the renowned London nautical instrument makers Henry Hughes & Son Ltd, under their HUSUN trademark. This original wartime instrument bears the British military Broad Arrow and the engraved Air Ministry stores reference REF No. 6B/177, identifying it as a specialised RAF navigational sextant associated with flying-boat operations.
The instrument is accompanied by its original fitted carrying case, retaining the maker's decorative inspection and calibration certificate dated 5 February 1945 and original key.
Historical background
The RAF operated flying boats such as the famous Short Sunderland during the Second World War. These aircraft undertook long-range maritime reconnaissance, convoy protection, search-and-rescue and anti-submarine patrols. Compact marine-pattern sextants of the 6B/177 type were supplied for flying-boat navigation, particularly for taking observations when the aircraft was on the water. Unlike the bubble sextants generally used during flight, this instrument incorporates the traditional horizon-sighting arrangement of a marine sextant.
Although the exact service history of this particular example is unknown, its Air Ministry reference establishes its RAF equipment classification.
Instrument details
Maker: Henry Hughes & Son Ltd, London
Trademark: HUSUN
Date: 1945
Certificate date: 5 February 1945
Serial number: 45299
Military marking: British Broad Arrow
Air Ministry reference: 6B/177
Radius: 3½ inches
Graduated reading: 1 minute of arc
Dimensions of instrument: approximately 16 × 17 cm
Case: Original fitted wooden carrying case with inspection certificate
The sextant features a black crackle-finished metal frame, silvered graduated scale, micrometer adjustment, optical telescope with broad eyepiece shield, coloured sun shades and brass fittings.
Condition
An attractive original wartime instrument displaying age-related wear to its painted and metal surfaces, consistent with its age and historical use.
The original case and numbered 1945 inspection certificate are particularly desirable surviving features.
The instrument has not been professionally calibrated or tested for modern navigational use and is offered as a historical collectible.
An appealing addition to a collection of RAF memorabilia, Second World War aviation equipment, Short Sunderland flying-boat history or antique scientific and navigational instruments.
Dimensions of instrument: approximately 16 × 17cm (6.3" x 6.7").
The case measures 20.3 x 20.3 x 14.4cm (8" x 8" x 5.7").
We have long experience of shipping delicate and valuable items to some of the most discerning collectors all over the world, please see our 5-star reviews for the many customers who have been kind enough to leave their comments about that.
