Antique W. Watson & Sons Dissecting Microscope. England, Circa 1900

Amazing antique dissection microscope made in London by W. Watson & Sons in the early 20th century. The microscope is a fully functional item with a surprisingly contemporary design and more than one hundred years old. It is made of black-enameled iron and golden brass: both metals remain in good condition. The enameled finish looks shiny and even and the brass preserves the original transparent protecting lacquer. The microscope keeps all its original component parts and can still be used. The claw-shaped foot that supports the instrument bears an engraved inscription: W. Watson & Sons 313 High Holborn London 51069. These words correspond to the manufacturing companys name and the microscopes serial number.The firm was founded in London, 1847 by William Watson to commercialize lanterns, slides and associated material. In 1868 the shop moved to 313 High Holborn and stayed there until 1940. In 1890 they started manufacturing optic material and microscopes like the one we can see in the photos. The company existed for decades until 1948, when the business eventually dissolved.At the microscopes foot we can also see the engraved word GREENOUGH. This word describes a type of binocular microscope introduced by Zeiss in the early 20th century. The system consists of two identical (and symmetrical) optical systems, each containing a separate eyepiece and objective arranged in accurate alignment with a single housing. This microscope comes in its original wooden case, where we can also find a set 2 additional eyepieces. Its professional look and its ancient age turn this dissection microscope into an exclusive piece with a remarkable interest for any collector. Measurements: Width: 5.9 in / 15 cm. Height: 13.9 in / 35.5 cm.