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R. & J. BECK MICROSCOPE-case

YEAR: c. 1886

SIGNED: R. & J. BECK, LONDON & PHILADELPHIA   and also  WALMSLEY & Co, PHILADELPHIA, SOLE AMERICAN AGENTS

SERIAL NUMBER: 15430

MODEL: ECONOMIC

Beck Economic Microscope, Case Beck Economic Microscope, Case

Beck Economic Microscope, CaseBeck Economic Microscope, Case

This case is in excellent condition with the usual cracks in the back panel. These occur because of a design flaw in construction. The wide back panel is fastened to the back via screws which do not permit expansion and contraction with changes in weather, especially humidity; this expansion occurs to a greater extent accross the grain than with the grain and the rest of the case (except the door, which is only fastened on one side), is oriented with the grain. Such a wide piece of wood will always crack under this circumstance. Only with very expensive cases did the makers take the trouble to prevent this with a frame and panel construction.