Antique Binocular Microscope R. & J. Beck, 1890s

Antique binocular microscope signed by R. & J. Beck, a foldable piece in excellent condition. The microscope comes in its original mahogany wooden box and comes with a complete accessory set containing several eyepieces, lenses, a magnifying glass and a box with original sample plates. This instrument is a real collectors piece for its beauty, ancient age and good condition. It can be used to view samples; the left lens provides a slightly darker view but this can be solved by providing more light. The microscope is made of golden brass and preserves the original transparent lacquer. The metal looks shiny and even, and boasts the fine patina created by the trace of time. At the foot we can see the manufacturers name, R. & J. BECK LONDON, and the serial number 6363 engraved in the metal. The foot is painted black and creates a nice contrast with the golden metal. The wooden box is sturdy and beautiful and preserves the original lock and key in working order. Inside it stores a piece to organize the eyepieces and the lenses, and a box with the sample plates. These two elements are also made of mahogany wood. Gorgeous and complete, this antique binocular R. & J. Beck microscope is a museum piece of strong personality.R. & J. Beck History In 1843, Richard and Joseph Beck founded the company R. & J. Beck in London. They were nephews of Joseph Jackson Lister, a renowned English optician and physicist who made important experiments with achromatic lenses. The firm made a wide range of optical instruments: microscopes, telescopes, trench periscopes, optometry lenses and camera lenses, among other. R. & J. Beck products were popular for its good quality and affordable price. One of their plate cameras was used by the famous British Army officer Thomas E. Lawrence, best known as Lawrence of Arabia. In 1880 the company started making the first true reflex camera. In 1895 R. & J. Beck became a limited partnership, and in 1947 it was listed as an exhibitor at the British Industry Fair.