Important Antique Franz Schmidt & Haensch Spectroscope. Germany, 1903

Rare antique spectroscope, big in size and in good conservation condition, although incomplete. This device comes from Germany and was made in 1903. It is complete and in good condition, being composed of a series of component parts (all of them original). The crystal prism contained in the central cylinder is the original one and is complete except for the lid that is missing; a short brass tubeto be attached to the central cylinder has also dissapeared. Otherwise, this is a beautiful and precise item and similar pieces by the same brand can be found nowadays in prestigious science museums. Spectroscopes are instruments used to measure the properties of light over a specific portion of the electromagnetic spectrum, typically used in spectroscopic analysis to identify materials. This particular one was made by Franz Schmidt & Haensch, Berlin, a famous brand that is still active. The firm was founded in the 19th century by the mechanic Franz Schmdit and the optician Herrmann Haenshc, who in 1864 started a joint enterprise. After 140 years heritage, the family owned company is now managed by the fifth generation. The spectroscope that we can see in these images is mounted on a three-legged iron stand. It consists of a central cylinder in which several prisms would have been housed. Two tubular arms with optical components radiate from the central cylinder horizontally. A large cylindrical weight on a steel rod extends from the base of the central cylinder. This piece and the three-legged stand are made if black-lacquered iron, while the tubular arms and mobile parts are made of brass. Because of its ancient age and imposing presence, this rare stethoscope will be an essential piece in a great collection of rare antiques. Measurements: Width: 22.4 in /56 cm. Height: 12.63 in /33 cm.