DIY precision level for turntable

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Some people pay $400 for digital level with resolution of 0.1degree. I made an analog level 10 times more precise for $60.
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I bought on eBay a Starrett precision grinded glass vial that was salvaged from airfield equipment. The air bubble moves 1/8” when the angle changes by 0.03degree. I can easily tell when the bubble is 1/32” off center - the resolution is better than 0.01 degree. To make the initial leveling easier, I added less sensitive round vial (mcmaster #2201A67). The Starrett vial came in a protective brass housing - I made an aluminum housing for the small vial and an aluminum base. Both vials are adjustable for easy calibration.

Marek

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Yes, Starrett level is cool. It’s been around for a few generations, that’s why the price on eBay is so high - people buy it as an antic tool.
Funny thing is, some guy on audiogon advertises his miserable 0.1 degree digital toy as the most precise tool in the Universe while your grandfather many years ago had a level 10 times more accurate!
Starrett levels have cast iron base with no hole for TT spindle so if you put it on TT platter off center it will bend the bearing and give inaccurate reading.
 
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