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MICROSCOPE-ANTIQUES.COM     © 2013-16.




MODEL: ?

DATE: c. Last 1/3 19th C.

MAKER: unknown

UNSIGNED

SERIAL NUMBER: None

COUNTRY OF ORIGIN: FRANCE

Botanical

This image illustrates the similarities and differences of two contemporary French simple microscopes of the late 19th century. As can be seen in the comparison above, there are many subtle differences. The mounting of the mirror in this one is on a protruding tab from a ring surrounding the pillar, while on the other example, the mirror gimbal is attached to a pin which fits through a hole in the pillar. The other example has two lenses, whereas this example has three. The rack and pinion in this one are is enclosed inside the pillar, whereas in the other example there is a traditional pinion box. This example has a single sided mirror, whereas the other example has a double sided one, with one side being a chalk reflector. Also note the bullseye on the other example but no provision for it on this one. Finally, the stage has strongly chamfered corners on this one, but the stage on the other is closer to having 90 degree corners. I would note that this example is somewhat heavier than the other example. The similarity of these two microscopes, apparently made by different manufacturers, likely attests to the popularity of the design. This microscope shares many features in common with another microscope in this collection which is box-mounted, though the lenses are separate rather than permanently attached, in that example. It is also virtually identical to one with a compound tube except for the tube itself.