Leitz Wetlzar Microscope with Original and Working Case. Germany, 1922

Amazing antique microscope made in Germany in 1922 by the prestigious manufacturer E. Leitz Wetlzar. This microscope comes in its original wooden case and is in excellent condition and working order. It comes with metal sleeves to protect the lenses and the eyepieces, and also a set of accessories. It is a beautiful and quality piece with a cast-iron bird-claw foot finished in black enamel. The enamel is wonderfully preserved and looks shiny and regular. The brass pieces still preserve the original transparent lacquer. The history of Leitz microscope starts in 1849, when Karl Kellner founded the Optical Institute of Wetlzar in the German city of the same name. In the beginning the company made telescopes but in a few years microscopes became the main product. In 1865 the firm hired the engineer Ernst Leitz, who would soon become a partner and eventually took over the company and renamed in Optical Institute of Leitz. During the 19th and 20th centuries, the factory became more and more successful and prestigious, being responsible of one of the most famous designs in the history of photography: the Leica camera (abbreviation of Leitz Camera). We can see the manufacturers name engraved at the front of the turret, together with the serial number: Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, Nº 211800. The device mounts a three-lens revolving nosepiece; all of them bear the engraved brand name and their magnification number. The microscope can be stored in its original case, made of solid golden wood with nice dovetail joints. The case preserves the original metal handle, the lock and the key; inside it contains a wooden stand to organize the metal sleeves and a wooden box with glass plates and filters. As complete as antique, this beautiful Leitz microscope is a device full of history and character. It is a basic piece for any self-respecting collector. Measurements: Width: 6.6 in/17 cm. Height: 13.7 in/35 cm.