Here I'm showing a figural sterling pencil represented as a child's top by Walter Thornhill & Company of England. Circa 1873.  6 stages of length not counting the nozzle! The piece extends by pulling the nozzle (working end), away from the body.  To me, the number of stages that fit into the body of the pencil is simply amazing. And, it all works smoothly and precisely. Without the ring the measurements are 1 3/8 inches long collapsed and 3 1/4 inches fully extended. Due to the top heavy nature of the piece it is unsuitable as a working top toy or is that toy top? Dizzy yet?  :>)