Antique French Nachet Microscope. France, Circa 1900

Rare antique French Nachet Modèle Moyen nº 6 microscope made circa 1900, complete and in its original storing case. This microscope is in good condition and working order; though the metal surface looks somewhat worn by the trace of time and use (we must not forget that this item is more than one hundred years old), it is quite well preserved. The lenses are in fine condition and make it possible to watch samples. The microscope comes with four lenses and three eyepieces; according to the specifications written down in the label, it is complete. It is quite a rare pieces that still preserves its functional character and its old-time charm. The microscope mounts a horseshoe-shaped brass base with the hand-engraved manufacturers name and address: NACHET Rue St. Severin 16, Paris. Over the base we can see a short and thick brass pole that supports the top mechanisms. This is composed of a turret with a three-lens revolving nosepiece and a sample stage made of black-enameled iron. Except for this piece, the shutter and the double-sided mirror, the rest of the microscopes component parts are made of brass. The screws and gears are in fine working order and it is real pleasure to manipulate them when using the microscope. The solid-mahogany wooden case is original too and remains in good condition. Inside we can find the set of eyepieces and lenses; the lenses come in their respective brass sleeves and bear the engraved manufacturers name. This rare and antique French Nachet microscope is a real museum piece which will be appreciated by any lover of the most exquisite antiques. Measurements: Bases Width: 5.2 in / 13 cm. Height: 13.6 in / 34 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.