Antique Ernst Leitz Wetzlar Microscope. Germany, 1908

Amazing Antique Enrst Leitz Wetzlar microscope made in Germany in 1908, complete and in its original storing case. This is a high-quality article, guaranteed by the prestigious German optical manufacturer. The microscope stands out for its beauty and formal balance, but also for its excellent condition and great working order. The case is made of solid light-colored mahogany wood and bears the serial number 105422 engraved in the wood, matching the microscopes one. The case is well preserved and keeps the original lock-and-key set in working order. The microscope mounts a black-lacquered cast-iron horseshoe foot. The mobile component parts are made of brass and silvery metal and look really great. The brass pieces preserve the original transparent lacquered finish. The component parts move and work fluidly and neatly, turning its operation into a real pleasure. The optical is in good condition too: the microscope mounts a two-lens revolving nosepiece with two Leitz objectives, Nº 3 and Nº 7. It also includes two eyepieces, x2 and x4, and an extra x10 eyepiece. Engraved in the microscopes foot we can see an inscription in white lettering: E. LEITZ WETZLAR Nº 105422, standing out clearly on the black lacquered finish. The brass sleeves to store the lenses also bear the manufacturers name engraved in their lids. Inside the case there is a paper sheet with handwritten information about the microscope: it contains the mentioned serial number, the date of manufacturing and information about the lenses and eyepieces. As gorgeous as functional, this striking Antique Enrst Leitz Wetzlar microscope is a great piece that stands out for its ancient age and hight quality. Measurements: Bases Width: 5.51 in / 14 cm. Height: 14.17 in / 36 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).