Spectacular Antique Swift & Son Binocular Microscope. England, Circa 1920

Striking antique Swift & Son binocular microscope made in England circa 1920, in outstanding condition and wonderful working order. This is an entirely original device with a gorgeous old-style design and quite complete. The microscope comes in its original wooden box, made of solid mahogany wood and finely preserved too. It comes with a set of five Swift-&-Son lenses and two binocular eyepieces, as well as a spare single eyepiece too. It is made of black-enameled metal and brass; both materials are in amazing condition and show off smooth shiny surfaces, attractive and stylish. At the back of the microscopes foot we can see the manufacturers name engraved in the metal: SWIFT & SON, 43 UNIVERSITY ST. LONDON W.C. The rack-and-pinion systems (there are three of them) are complete and perfectly preserved, providing the two turrets with an optimal and fluid movement. The fine adjustment system is also in good condition and working order. All these features turn the manipulation of the microscope into an great experience for the user. This striking antique Swift & Son microscope will shine as part of the best collection of early-20th-century scientific instruments. Dimensions: Width: 7.2 in / 18 cm. Height: 18 in / 45 cm.Swift & Son Microscopes - History 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.