Microscopes come in two basic configurations: upright and inverted. Inverted microscopes are used to observe the specimen from below. They were first developed and used before the Second World War for research and analysis of metal materials such as iron and steel. With the advances made in biological research after the War, scientists started to use inverted microscopes for observing living cells.
Zeiss Microscopes
The German lens maker, Carl Zeiss, excelled at crafting precision lenses and began manufacturing microscopes in 1847.Initially building single lens instruments, in 1857 his firm began designing compound microscopes. Made of brass, many of these instruments had a black japanned base.
His later microscopes used a draw-tube coarse focus and a knob controlled fine focus. He further refined the instrument with the incorporation of a rack and pinion coarse focus and fine focus enabled by a graduated wheel.
Considered the finest optical instruments of the time, different magnifications were obtained by inserting eyepieces of varying lens strength into the monocular head in combination with different objectives.
Collecting Microscopes
The serious antique microscope collector inhabits a niche market that requires perseverance, knowledge and luck.
An antique microscope collector, whether he/she is an investor or hobbyist, must possess the knowledge to determine the authenticity of an intended purchase.
Proud of their craftsmanship, microscope makers routinely inscribed their name and model number on instruments –making identification of the exact make and model of an antique microscope is easier than most other antiques.
Value
As with most collectibles, rarity, rather than mere age, determines value.A complete antique microscope set is worth more than one missing pieces.
Popularly collected brands are Bausch & Lomb, Carl Zeiss, and Powell & Lealand – luminaries of the 1800s that combined aesthetics and precision.
Zeiss are still in business today as the oldest optical company and largest producer.
Some vintage microscopes sell for a few hundred dollars, but most collectible models start in the thousand-dollar range.
A Bausch & Lomb 1898 Model BB recently sold for just over $2,000 and other models sell as high as $10,000. Several Zeiss microscopes from the 1920’s range from $500 to $1800; however, eBay vendors have sold a few Leitz models from the late 19th century for less than $200.
To view images of a great collection, check out antique-microscopes.com.
Quick Summary
The beauty of an antique microscope is manifested in myriad ways.The shiny brass casing, the precision of the old gears, the solid metallic feel – all combine to instill a feeling of awe that a microscope can be so beautiful and functional after so many years.
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