Drum Microscope, 1900

Drum Microscope for Students from 1900. In Excellent Condition and with Original Case

This drum microscope was manufactured in 1900 and is in perfect condition and fully functional. It is a beautiful piece, made entirely of gilded brass and housed in its original mahogany case. The microscope was designed for student use-or perhaps for travel-and is perfect for transporting and using in the classroom thanks to its small size and compact design. It consists of two parts that can be disassembled and conveniently stored in the case, making it a very attractive and charming item.

The drum microscope is a portable instrument invented by the English optician Benjamin Martin in the mid-18th century. During the 19th century, these types of devices became very popular for fieldwork, teaching, study, and even as toys for children. The design shown in these images was conceived by Noel Lerebours, a French optician whose drum microscopes became highly popular. In the mid-19th century, these types of devices began to become obsolete, especially with the advent of new models manufactured by firms such as Leitz Wetzlar and Zeiss Jena.

This model, as we mentioned, follows the classic design of this type of device. Its simplicity and functionality are particularly striking. The microscope works perfectly and retains all its original parts in excellent condition. It features a lens for focusing light and two lenses that fit into their respective compartments. It also comes with tweezers for handling the slides with the specimens. The case in which it is stored when disassembled is also very well preserved. It is made of solid mahogany, which displays a beautiful, deep grain with varying tones. The hinges connecting the lid to the body are original, as are the closing hooks.

Without a doubt, this microscope is the ideal piece to complete a fine collection of scientific antiques.

Dimensions: Width: 4.5 cm. Height: 15 cm.