Antique Swift & Son Microscope. England, Circa 1920

Complete Swift & Son microscope, made in England circa 1920 and with its original storing and carrying case. This article is in very good condition and works really fine. It mounts a three-lens revolving nosepiece and an eyepiece: all these pieces are original and remain in excellent working order. The microscopes foot is made of black-enameled cast iron, while the top part is composed of different brass parts. The enameled finish is finely preserved and boasts a regular and even surface; on the other hand, the brass component parts are protected by the original transparent varnish which has preserved them from rust. At the back of the microscopes foot we can see the name SWIFT & SON LONDON neatly engraved in capital letters. This name is also engraved in each of the objectives, together with their magnification numbers. The microscope preserves the original double-sided mirror located under the sample stage; the rest of the mobile component parts are also in good condition and allow an easy and efficient operation of the mechanism. This microscope set includes three old-time samples with German indications. The storing case is made of solid mahogany wood and inside it shows different compartments, so each piece and accessory has its own place. It is well preserved, though showing some signs of the trace of time that provide in with an unmistakable charm. Classic and evocative, this antique Swift & Son microscope with three-lens revolving nosepiece is an old-time piece, as authentic as fascinating. Measurements: Height: 14.17 in / 36 cm.History of J. Swift & Son microscopes The history of the J. Swift & Son microscope business starts out in 1853 when James Powell Swift, who had been an apprentice with Andrew Ross, opened his own business in London together with his brother Mansell Powell. In 1872 the business was located in 43 University Street, near Tottenham Court Road. In 1872 James Swifts brother, Edgard, entered the company to manufacture lenses. In 1881 the business moves to its definite location in 81 Tottenham Court Road, London W. In 1903 the founders grandson, Mansell Powell Hohn Swift, joins the company; three years later James Powell Swift dies. In 1912 the company is incorporated as a limited company. After many vicissitudes, in 1946 E.R. Watson & Sons takes over the firm. Eventually, in 1968 John H. Basset, who entered the company in 1949, purchased the firm and joined it to its own microscope business.