Antique Mantel Magnifying Glass in Good Condition. Ross, London, 19th Century

This fine piece is a magnifying glass made of brass and with the original lens in perfect conditions. The article is more than one hundred years old and was manufactured in London in the 19th century. It is wonderfully preserved and keeps all its original component parts. The metal is shiny and even, with scarcely any signs of the trace of time. The screw that regulates the glasss height works perfectly too. The lens provides a neat and clear view so this magnifying glass can be used to watch specimens, perform precision work or read, just like when it was made. The piece that connects the glass and the mast bears an engraved inscription that reads ROSS LONDON, together with a small symbol depicting a crossed arrow pointing upwards. This company was founded in 1830 by Andrew Ross and became one of the most foremost lens manufacturers in Great Britain. Ross died in 1859 and his son Thomas took over the company that changed its name to Ross & Co. In the late 19th century the firm stated making Zeiss and Goerz lenses under license for sale in the British Empire. They also made some cameras from 1855 to the 1930s. After World War II, Ross merged with Barnet Ensign and was renamed Ross Ensign. In 1975, the firm was taken over by Avimo. The magnifying glass depicted in the photographs is a good example of how well-made, simple and reliable were Ross products. It is a precise piece that can be regulated in order to focus the objects to be viewed. The lens provides a neat vision and the base is ample enough so as to guarantee a good stability. In this way, this magnifying glass is not only a decorative and antique item but it can also keep on performing its duty on the desk of a talented writer, reader o scholar. Delicate and functional, this antique desk magnifying glass is a piece full of history and charm that will delight every lover of optical antiques. Measurements: Width: 12.5 in / 32 cm. Height: 15.3 in / 39 cm. Lens Diameter: 10 cm / 3.94 inches