Portable Compound Microscope By Murray & Heaths, 1870

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Portable Compound Microscope By Murray & Heaths, 1870 This is a fine little compound monocular, portable brass microscope signed "Murray & Heath, London" on the front of its anodized outer tube, circa 1870. It features ingenious folding front and strutted rear tripod legs, which attach to the limb with a single knurled screw and locating pin. The same attachment also serves to lock the instrument at the desired angle of tilt. T is a single objective lens, with focusing via the main draw tube, and variation of the magnification via a second draw tube. The microscope has a machined brass stage and comes with an original machined brass live box. When assembled for use, this microscope stands 8-10" high. This microscope comes in its original fine leather-covered wooden case, with dual hook clasps. The case measures approximately 6"W x 3.7"D x 2.6"H. Inside, the case lid is lined with dark green silk and has a gold-stamped central label with a royal crown and "Murray & Heath, Opticians, Jermyn St, London" within a gold-bordered diamond. The case is fitted to receive the compactly-folded microscope and lined with dark green velvet. T is a compartment which neatly fits the live box, and no unused storage area is apparent. Murray & Heath produced a wide range of optical and photographic equipment, and were appointed instrument makers to Queen Victoria. From 1862-1865, they worked from 43 Piccadilly, but in 1866 they moved to Jermyn Street (still a prominent London landmark today), w they continued in production until circa 1880. In 1866, the sole proprietor was Charles Heisch, who produced a rather extensive catalogue in 1867, stating that he was a manufacturer (Bracegirdle, "Notes on Modern Microscope Manufacturers" page 49). Surviving microscopes by Murray & Heath appear to be of fine quality, but are quite uncommon, only one found in the large collection of the Science Museum in London and only one in the collection of the Royal Microscopical Society in Oxford. The present microscope and its case are in excellent overall condition, showing only signs of very light use, noting some scuffing and chipping to the case leather about the clasps, and minimal defects to the microscope surface. Nearly all of the original lacquer is present, bluing to the slide supports on the stage is in good condition, and the mirror is nearly perfect. The microscope functions smoothly and is very quick and simple to assemble. Fine images are produced in actual use. Overall, a very attractive little microscope, reminiscent of some types produced by Swift, but with its on unique character. Quite a rare item, I have not encountered another like it. A lovely example by a very uncommon maker, complete, and in near mint condition. Please email with any questions. Shipping and insurance will be charged at a fixed total cost of $20 to any continental US location, elsew/internationally at actual cost. Will be shipped immediately following receipt of Personal or questionable checks may be held for clearance (up to 10 business days) if feedback is not completely reassuring. Maryland residents add 5% state sales tax or provide resale tax number. May be returned in unchanged condition for a full refund, less shipping costs, within 7 days of receipt, if you are not completely satisfied, for any reason. Please follow this link to see my other auctions. read more

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