Antique French Pattern Compound Drum Microscope Portable Field 7" Mid 19th c For Sale

Unsigned mid-19th-century French-pattern compound drum microscope in lacquered brass, approx 7 inches tall with the drawtube compressed. Compact piece, fixed circular stage, sliding drawtube focus, and pivoting substage illuminating mirror. Included several interchangeable objective components, two broad reflector-style objective fittings, eyepiece components, and divisible optical cells, the smaller ones are labeled 1-3.

The instrument was partially disassembled for careful cleaning and inspection. All optical elements removed during that process have been reinstalled in their respective fittings. Tiny lenses are hand-ground and all present. No fitted box, slides, instructions, or additional accessories are included. The contents are exactly those shown in the photographs and are not represented as a complete original set. I tend not to be forceful with anything. Threaded sections left secured include the screw on the pivoting reflector, the uppermost part of the main drum, and one of the tiny eyepieces, all shown still assembled in photos.

• Antique surface wear throughout, including scratches, finish variation, oxidation, small marks, and areas of patina on the brass. Some light surface fingerprints under scrutiny. This is lacquered brass, could be polished to high gloss, but retains its original finish/patina undisturbed.
• Drawtube extends and retracts freely. All threads shown disassembled in photos are excellent.
• Knurled edge of main body drum seat has a few nicks, noted in photos.
• Reflective surface on mirror may or may not be original to the piece, has age-related deterioration, crease marks, etc. Generally late 19th century, early 20th inexpensive French scopes in this design would have glass, and metal typically leans a little earlier, but unknown if this is original or not.
• Japanned interior surfaces show scattered wear and losses.
• Optical elements examined during cleaning appear intact, with natural edge irregularities visible on several of the small hand-finished lenses.
• The components have been cleaned and reassembled, quality of image it produces untested.

Ships by USPS Ground Advantage, FedEx Ground, or UPS Ground. The microscope will be wrapped clean in archival materials and packed in a reinforced box for safe transit. Lenses will remain installed in their fittings, and the small components will be individually secured and organized so nothing is lost during unpacking.

Typically ships within 1 business day. Rates to Alaska and Hawaii differ from continental US; please message for quote. International shipping available through 's Global Shipping Program.