Antique Otto Seibert Wetzlar Microscope. Germany, 1920.

Outstanding antique Otto Seibert Wetzlar microscope in great condition, made in Germany in 1920. This microscope is in perfect working order and is also finely preserved; these features turn it into a decorative and functional piece. It comes in its original storing case, almost flawless too, and includes a complete set with five eyepieces (one of them with micrometrical-adjustment system) and three lenses (including an oil-immersion one). According to the specifications written down on the paper card, the accessory set is complete. The microscope mounts a four-lens revolving nosepiece and preserves all its original component parts, including the double-sided mirror. The microscope mounts a horseshoe foot, made of black-enameled cast iron. The arm, the stage and the turret show off the same finish: the black enamel looks shiny and even, almost as beautiful as when it was applied on the metal surface. The brass component parts keep the original transparent lacquered finish which provides them with a lovely patina. At the back of the microscope we can see the manufacturers name, Otto Seibert Wetzlar, engraved in the metal with the serial number 1340. On the other hand, the storing case is a gorgeous light-colored mahogany wooden box with delicate dovetail joints at the corner and a metal handle. The lock is in working order and preserves the original key. Superb and functional, this antique Otto Seibert Wetzlar microscope is bound to become part of a great collection of old-time scientific instruments. Measurements: Height: 15.6 in / 39 cm.Seibert Microscopes - History In the 1850s, Wihelm and Heinrich Seibert were working in the famous Carl Kellers optical company in Wetlzar. Enrst Gundlach was working there too, and in 1859 he left the company to start his own workshop, taking the Seibert brothers with him. He had poor business skills and soon the business went bankrupt; Gundlach moved to England in 1860 and came back to Germany in 1865. He started another microscope company and again the Seiberts went with him, but in 1872 the business was again in financial trouble. The Seibert brothers, together with Georg Krafft, bought the company. Gundlach had to agree not to found another business in Germany so he moved to the USA. Meanwhile, the Seiberts and Krafft returned to Wetzlar; the company was known as Seiberts & Krafft till 1884, and as W. & H. Seibert until 1925. After the death of Otto Seibert, Leitz Wetzlar took over the business.