Historic Henry Crouch Microscope Belonging to Dr. Alex Barbour. Scotland, Circa 1885

Historic Henry Crouch microscope belonging to Dr. Alex Barbour, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Scotland. It was made in England circa 1885 and remains in fine condition. Dr Alex Barbour was an important figure in the early-20th-century British scientific scene; he was the president of the mentioned institution between 1914 and 1916. He was a gynecologist and published several books. At the door, the storing case bears a plate with his name. The model came out in the year 1884, which corresponds to the year of the graduation of the doctor. So we are probably looking at his first microscope for professional use. The microscope comes with two lenses and one eyepiece and is stored in the original case. It is finely preserved: the black finish that covers the metal foot looks good and even, and the brass component parts preserve the gorgeous transparent patina provided by the original varnish. All these parts move fluidly and make it possible to use the microscope to watch samples. The rack-and-pinion system is fully operational and works fine. At the foot we can see the manufacturers name, HENRY CROUCH LONDON, engraved in the black finish with a partially erased number (probably 4264). The storing case is made of solid mahogany wood, is well preserved too and keeps the original lock without the key. This historic Henry Crouch microscope belonging to Dr. Alex Barbour, President of the Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh, Scotland is bound to become part of a exclusive collection of antique scientific instruments. Dimensions: Width: 5.5 in / 14 cm. Height: 12.2 in / 31 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.