Antique Spencer Laboratory Microscope

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Antique Spencer Laboratory Microscope

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Sold Date: 06/10/2007
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay
Category: Tools

Offered is an antique Spencer laboratory reflecting microscope, probably dating from the 1930's (??). This is a large, unusually complex instrument with a precision rotary stage table, three objective lenses, fine and coarse focus, rack adjustment with an iris, shutter and adjustable lenses in the illuminating path and several other lens adjustments on the barrel that I cannot identify. (Unfortunately, I do not know too much about biological microscopes.) "Spencer, Buffalo USA 233083" is written on the barrel. The 18" tall wooden case also holds a slide-out box that contains the items pictured in photo #3: an extra occular of 30mm, two empty specimen vials and the three window/filter insert (?) accessories pictured. Also included in its own small case is some type of test slide made by Zeiss as pictured in photo #4. The case is equipped with a key latch and steel key. The cased instrument weighs 35 lb (16 Kg).

T appears to be a crack in one of the light-concentrating lenses underneath the stage although this assembly still directs an even beam of light through a slide. This microscope is in nice condition for its age but no doubt needs some cleaning and attention. It is offered AS-IS.

If preferred, the winning bidder may pick it up directly in the Rochester, NY area (best option if possible) or it can be packaged and shipped. Please refer to the eBay calculator for shipping to your location. A $7 handling charge is to cover packing materials. Insurance may be added upon request and is recommended for an item such as this - I can not accept any responsibility for loss or breakage if insurance is not purchased.

ADDITIONAL INFO, June 7:

-Extra photo shows condenser (illuminating) assembly below stage with its adjuster ring, lever to swing out the top-most element and rack & pinion focus. It is this swing-out lens that appears to have a possible chip or crack.

-Barrel is equipped with two slide-out units that I understand contain prismatic elements - condition unknown. The lower one incorporates a 0-90 degree adjustment sector.

-The occular in place is labelled 6X and has a fine thread adjustment.

-The filters (?) pictured in photo #3 include one labelled "1/4 lambda" (light yellow), one labelled "1st order red" (slightly smokey color) and the oblong window with no apparent color or label. All have Z-axis markings and all could use cleaning.