Antique Nachet Grand Modele Microscope. France, Circa 1900

Very rare and antique French Nachet Grand Modele number 4 microscope made in France circa 1900, complete and in very working order. This amazing device is a real collectors piece with a three-lens revolving nosepiece and a complete set of 4 objectives and 2 eyepieces. It is greatly preserved and comes in its original solid-mahogany wooden case with the original key. The microscope shows off a very attractive look, typical of the models of the period. It combines black-enameled iron, brass and chromed metal, creating a beautiful and functional design. The nosepieces ring shows an ancient repair, while the rest of the component parts remain in good condition. The microscope mounts a four-legged black-enameled iron foot, stable and sturdy. The empaneled finish is finely preserved and creates a lovely contrast with the shiny golden metal. The stage mounts a mechanical system to move and manipulate samples; on the other hand, the magnifying glass has been polished to improve visibility. The top brass part is finely preserved and boasts a gorgeous ancient patina that provides the microscope with personality. The turret bears the manufacturers name and address engraved by hand at the front: NACHET ET FILS 17 Rue St. Severin PARIS. Last but not least, the storing case is also in good condition. It is made of light-colored mahogany wood and shows off delicate handmade dovetail joints, with a beautiful reddish golden color and a greatly preserved original finish. The lock and the key are original from the period and remain in working order. This superb antique French Nachet Grand Modele will stand out in the best collection of turn-of-the-century scientific instruments for its rareness and charity. Measurements: Width: 6.6 in / 16.5 cm. Height: 14.8 in / 37 cm.Nachet Microscopes History Camille Sebastian Nachet was a Parisian optician who developed his career in the French capital city in the earlt 19th century. In the beginning, Nachet made lenses for the famous microscope maker Chevalier; but soon he opened his own microscope workshop in Rue St. Severin 16, Paris. His first instruments had the same design as popular drum microscopes made by other manufacturers. In the mid-19th century (circa 1850) Nachet was succeeded by his son Alfred and the company was renamed Nachet et Fils. Nachet was once considered one of the three leading microscope and lens manufacturers of Paris, together with Chevalier and Oberhauser.