Antique Henry Crouch Student Microscope. England, Circa 1910

Antique Henry Crouch student microscope coming from England and made circa 1910. This device is an original from the early 20th century and remains in perfect working order, being also finely preserved. It comes in its solid-mahogany wooden box, also in very good condition. Inside the box we also find a complete accessory set with two eyepieces and three lenses, all of them original from the manufacturer. The microscope mounts a two-lens revolving nosepiece, black-enameled metal foot and brass mobile component parts. The brass preserves the original transparent protecting finish that enhances the metals beauty and prevents it from rusting. Student microscopes are characterized by their simple design, a feature that made them more affordable than those of professional use while still fulfilling perfectly their basic duties. The one that we can see in the images keeps the rack-and-pinion and fine adjustment systems in perfect condition: the screws and parts move fluidly and softly, enabling a good operation and providing a pleasant feeling when using the device. At the back of the metal foot we can see an engraved inscription with the manufactures name and the microscopes serial number: HENRY CROUCH LONDON 4869. The name is also present in the lenses sleeves, engraved by hand in a beautiful cursive lettering. Functional and original, this antique Henry Crouch student microscope is a very decorative item that will provide any room or study with a very special touch. Dimensions: Width: 5.6 in / 14 cm. Height: 13.2 in / 33 cm. Crouch Microscopes - History Henry Crouch was an optic material and microscope maker who founded his own company in London, England after working as an apprentice with Smith, Beck & Bech. Crouch opened his business en 1862 together with his younger brother, William. The first H &W Crouch shop was located in Regents Canal Dock, Commercial Road. The Crouch brothers started making copies of Smith, Beck & Beck microscopes, but soon they were producing their own affordable high-quality instruments for students and middle-class scientists. One of their most admired products was Crouchs binocular microscope. The Crouch brothers dissolved their partnership in 1866; Henry took over the company and this flourished year after year. In 1907 the firm was acquired by S. Maw, Son & Sons; Crouch kept on working practically until his death, which took place in 1916.