NavList:

In one of the above mentioned, I noted the following, which if correct, strikes me as somewhat sad, the marvels of GPS, and comparative cost factors notwithstanding. The following is not an exact quote, but as memory serves, repeats the statement.

Two sextant makers remain. Astra of China and Davis, U.S. based.

Davis sextants are of plastic construction, and while not as stable as metal frame (Aluminum) instruments, are useable. The Astra 111B seems a quality instrument.

Also noted was the following. New C & P instruments, Tamaya instruments too can still be had, but they are "old stock", their makers having left the business. I suppose that at some point in time nobody will be making sextants any more, which seems problematic respecting the following. Will the demise of sextant making bring with it a loss of precision manufacturing facilities and skills? I don't know the answer, but it might be something worth thinking about, though who knows what, if anything could be done to counteract such loss.

Alan

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