Rare! L. BROOKS Patent 1854 Inclinometer

Brooks’ Universal Plumb & Level is one of the Holy Grails of level collectors. Lebbeus Brooks was granted his patent on August 29, 1854 at the age of 24, and died 4 years later in 1858. His estate was auctioned off in November of that year and included 1/2 of the patent rights as well as a stock of parts for the levels, which were purchased by Stanley.  This fine 28 inch mahogany example retains most all of the original lacquer finish on the showy wood and brass.  It shows no sign of ever having the Stanley label applied, and it is my belief that unlabeled examples were the very first made and sold by Brooks himself before his death.  A very rare and special pre-Civil War patented tool.