Antique Leitz E. Leitz Microscope. Germany, 1920

Fascinating antique E. Leitz Wetzlar microscope with a complete accessory set and wooden storing case. The microscope was made in German in 1920 by the prestigious optic material manufacturer. It is in impeccable condition and working order, looking as beautiful and functional as when it was originally made, more than one hundred years ago. The microscope mounts a cast-iron horseshoe-shaped foot with a fine black-lacquered finish in flawless condition. The same can be said about the brass and silvery-metal mobile component parts the combination among the three different materials makes up a gorgeous, singular and fully original piece. The microscope includes a micrometrical adjustment system designed to carefully move the samples, as well as a 3-eyepiece set and 5 lenses. The lenses are stored in a fine black-leather-covered case with the manufacturers name, E. Leitz Wetzlar, printed in golden lettering. The same name can be seen engraved in the microscopes turret together with the serial nº 190828, as well as in the micrometrical adjustment system and the lenses. One side of the double mirror located under the sample plate is broken, but the other is in perfect condition. The storing case is made of solid wood and preserves the original handle; inside there is a wooden stand to store the eyepieces and a wooden box with sliding lid containing different accessories. The case has been re-varnished. This antique E. Leitz Wetzlar microscope is a true museum piece for its ancient age, amazing condition and flawless design. Measurements: Width: 7 in / 18 cm. Height: 13.7 in / 35 cm.Ernst Leitz Wetzlar - History The beginnings of the famous optic material manufacturing company named Ernst Leitz Wetzlar can be found in the first half of the 19th century, when the mechanic and selft-taught mathematician Carl Kellner founded the Carl Kellner Optisches Institut in Wetlzar, Germany. After his early death his widow maintained the business, and in 1864 the mechanical engineer Ernst Leitz entered the company. Just five years later, Leitz took control of the firm and changed its name for Ernst Leitz Wetzlar. Leitz led the company to success after introducing improvements such as serial production, raising sales volume rapidly after 1871. Leitz microscopes included technical improvements that increased their quality; by the late 19th century the company already had a worldwide reputation. Ernst Leitz died in 1920 and the leadership of the firm passed to his son. As well as for their microscopes and optic material, Leitz became hugely famous for their famous Leica cameras (abbreviation of Leitz Camera).