Watercolour by Thomas Bowler, 1854 (detail). The 3-inch telescope dome is just visible, but the 7-inch dome is lost against a background of trees. The time Ball is shown in the raised position; it could only be seen thus from 12; 55 p.m. when it was hoisted until it was dropped precisely at 1; 00 p.m. Original in the possession of the Africana Museum.
Source: Warner – Astronomers

This painting can be dated between May 1860 and June 1863 from the existence of the northern flagstaff, and the absence of the Time Ball tower. Artist Unknown. Original in the possession of the Africana Museum.
Source: Warner – Astronomers

At the end of Maclear’s directorship the buildings were in need of maintenance. At the end of Stone’s directorship the buildings were very run down. Gill’s priority was to do mayor repairs to the buildings and he had the Observatory shipshape in a short time, as seen here. The Main Building, from a compilation of sketches concerning the Cape Observatory. Published by “The Graphic”, 27 August 1892. Original in the possession of the Africana Museum.
Source: Moore

The Main Building, from a compilation of sketches concerning the Cape Observatory. Published by “The Cape Times”, 19 September 1908.
Source: Warner – Astronomers

The main building, also known as Fallows House.
Source: A.S.S.A. Archives: Peter Smits Collection.