A good example of a small brass microscope dating from the late 19th Century in a fitted wooden case, complete with two objective lenses, an eyepiece lens and a small pair of brass tweezers.
The microscope itself is made of brass and is a typical design with a tubular body, measuring approximately 7 1/2" (19cm) tall. There is a rack and pinion focus knob on the rear of the tube. It has a square stage with two slide clips and below is a mirror to direct the light. It has a heavy Y-shaped foot stamped "Universal Household Microscope".
The microscope appears to be in good working order and I have set it up and tested it with a few old slides. I'm sure the lenses would probably benefit from a clean but they produced a clear image all the same and the microscope was easy to focus.
Overall the microscope is in good condition for its age. It has been used and will have normal signs of wear. The brass has tarnished and the lacquer has worn in places but there are no major damages or dents and it displays well. Although i
n working order it is really being sold as a decorative / collectors item rather than an accurate scientific instrument.
The microscope comes in it a nicely fitted wooden box. The box is sturdy and in good condition with two brass closing latches. There are some minor surface scratches, small knocks and old splits but nothing detrimental and overall it has a nice aged patina. The box measures approximately 8" long x 4 1/2" w x 3" high.
