Leitz Wetzlar Microscope with Original Case, in Working Condition. Germany, 1922

Leitz Wetzlar Microscope with Original Case, in Working Condition. Germany, 1922

A fantastic antique microscope manufactured by the prestigious firm E. Leitz Wetzlar in Germany in 1922. The microscope comes in its original solid wood case and is in excellent condition and working order. It comes with lens and eyepiece caps and some extra accessories; taken as a whole, it is an item of great beauty and quality. The base is made of cast iron and enameled black; the finish is in magnificent condition, smooth and shiny. The rest of the components-made of polished brass and silver-plated metal-are very well preserved. The brass also retains its original protective clear varnish

The history of Leitz microscopes dates back to 1849, when Karl Kellner founded the Wetzlar Optical Institute in the German town of the same name. Initially, the company was dedicated to the manufacture of telescopes, but within a few years, microscopes became the stars of its production. In 1865, engineer Ernst Leitz joined the firm and was soon made a partner; by 1869, he had taken full control and renamed it the Ernst Leitz Optical Institute. Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, the company grew in sales and prestige, becoming known for one of the legendary pieces in the history of photography: the Leica camera (short for Leitz Camera).

The company name is engraved on the front of the microscope's tower, along with the serial number: Ernst Leitz Wetzlar, No. 211800. The instrument features a three-lens revolver, each lens marked with the manufacturer's name and the magnification number. The microscope can be stored in its original case, crafted from solid wood in a beautiful light golden color with dovetail joints. The case retains its original handle, key, and lock, and inside there is a holder for the lens and eyepiece caps, as well as a wooden box containing glass slides for specimen preparation and filters.

As complete as it is antique, this beautiful Leitz microscope is an instrument steeped in history and personality. An essential piece for any serious collector.

Dimensions: Width: 17 cm. Height: 35 cm.