Antique R. & J. Beck Brass Microscope. & J. Beck. England, Circa 1900

Amazing antique R. & J. Beck microscope with old-time mahogany wooden case, made in England circa 1900. This is a very attractive piece with a fine turn-of-the-century look and remaining in very good condition. It preserves all its original component parts except for the stage clips and the clip of the revolving-nosepiece. Though, this is an insignificant detail; in fact, the microscope can be used without any problem. The diaphragm is in optimal condition too and the same can be said about the lenses, signed by the manufacturer. We can also see this signature engraved at the microscopes foot, as part of the inscription R & J BECK LONDON Nº 27216. The microscope comes with two lenses and three eyepieces. Both the instrument and the accessory set can be stored into the original mahogany wooden case. Riveted to the inner side of the cases door we can see a solid-silver plate. The plate bears a hand-engraved dedicatory with the following inscription: PRESENTED BY W. BRO: WALTER POTTER, P.M. 1260. TO PERPETUATE THE NAME OF CLARA KINGCOMBE. The storing case mounts some wooden pieces designed to keep the eyepieces, the lenses and the microscope in place, as well as the original hinges and metal carrying handle. Every lover of old-time microscope will find a treasure in this antique R. & J. Beck brass microscope, as beautiful as authentic. Measurements: Height: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. Measurements: Width: 5.12 in / 13 cm. Height: 11.42-14.57 in / 29-37 cm.