Erik Van Cort has been involved in early telescopes since his first purchase of a small multi-draw antique French pocket scope with missing optics in 1963.In the late 1970’s he conceived the idea of recreating and selling large refractors of mahogany and brass and founded Van Cort Instruments, Inc.* For over two decades Van Cort Instruments designed & manufactured some of the finest optical devices throughout the USA, Europe and the Far East. 

Van Cort collects fine telescopes and other odd and curious devices. The Gallery on these pages features offerings of important historical telescopes and other distinctive devices. Equally of interest are the telescopes and instruments of his own creation, including kaleidoscopes, which became a Van Cort signature collectible. 

Large and small gear-driven Orreries were always a passion, and several examples are within these pages. The one-of-a-kind massive Van Cort-Simpson Orrery is presented here for sale for the first time.

Erik Van Cort’s workshop continues to design & manufacture special limited editions and has completed projects for world famous museums including the Smithsonian in Washington D.C., and Colonial Williamsburg. His reproduction of the Dollond Telescope belonging to Thomas Jefferson is now on display at Montecello.

We welcome inquires to manufacture parts or replacement optics for rare telescopes or other devices. “If you don’t know your instrument, know your instrument maker”.

Please pardon our appearance! This website is still under construction. Check back with us often, as we are adding new products almost daily. 

*Article featured in Mercedes Benz Magazine, Mercedes Benz of North America, 1984