John Coventry (instrument maker)

John Coventry was a 19th-century English scientific instrument maker, known primarily for his work on surveying instruments. He was active in London during the early to mid-1800s. While not as widely celebrated as some of his contemporaries like Troughton or Dollond, Coventry produced instruments of quality and precision that were used for surveying, navigation, and possibly other scientific purposes. Surviving examples of his theodolites and levels are held in museum collections and occasionally appear at auction. Details of his business practices and personal life are currently limited, and further research is required to fully document his contributions to the field of scientific instrument making. His instruments often feature his name and address engraved upon them, aiding in their identification.