Ernst Leitz Wetzlar Microscope from 1909. Original Case. Well Preserved and Working.

Smart German microscope from 1901, perfectly preserved and in good working order. This microscope was made by Ersnt Leitz Wetzlar company, which was founded by K. Kellner in Wetzlar in 1849. The name of the company comes from engineer E. Leitz, who was hired to work in the firm and afterwards became its owner. It is a remarkable fact that Leitz has been always a reference in the field of optical material; its Canadian factory was renowned by their famous Leica cameras. This microscope comes in its original solid wood case and keeps all its accessories, eyepieces and lenses in good condition. The microscope is made of brass with parts painted black. The brass keeps the original varnish, meant to protect the metal from rusting. This is why the brass is so polished and shiny, free from pitting. The lenses are in very good condition and provide a clear and neat view. In the central cylinder we can see the inscription Enrst Leitz Wetzlar and London, with the serial number: 122054. The name of the company is also engraved in the lenses. The microscope preserves all its original components: lenses, eyepieces, mirrors and the clips attached to the stage. The case which houses the microscope is made of solid beech wood. Inside there is a wooden stand designed to hold the eyepieces. We can also see two wooden boxes with sliding covers which contain material designed to clean the lenses and prepare the samples. The case has dovetail joints, as beautiful as strong, and keeps the original lock and keyhole. The metal handle at the top, designed to carry the microscope, is also original. In the upper edge of the box we can see the serial number, carved on the wood; this number also appears in a label fixed to the inside of the door. This label shows some technical data with information about the microscope, the objectives and the eyepieces under the name of Magnification Table. The inscriptions are beautifully hand-written, turning this label into the finishing touch that makes of this antique microscope a real find. Measurements: 145 mm width x 370 mm height.