A superb example of late Victorian scientific instrumentation, this is a complete cased brass monocular microscope retailed by the well-known Manchester optician A. Franks Ltd. This instrument is presented in very good condition with its original mahogany fitted case and valuable accessories.
Overview & Provenance
Retailer: A. Franks Ltd, Manchester (and later Hull), a prominent British optician firm operational from around 1879 to 1950.
Era: Late 19th Century / Early 20th Century (circa 1880–1900).
Style: Features a classic "bar-limb" design (also known as a Society of Arts pattern) with a lacquered brass finish and dark finished cast-iron Y-shaped base.
Inscription: Clearly inscribed with 'A. FRANKS LTD, MANCHESTER' on the front of the base.
Features & Specifications
Height: Measures 12 inches (approx. 30.5 cm) high when set up.
Base Dimensions: The base footprint measures 5.5 x 5 inches (approx. 14 x 12.7 cm).
Construction: High-quality lacquered brass construction, with rack-and-pinion coarse focus mechanism and substage mirror.
Case: Housed in its original, well-maintained solid mahogany case with internal fitted compartments. (10.5x7.5x6 inches)
Inclusions:
Complete set of original accessories.
Original small box containing antique specimen glass slides.
Condition
This item is in very good antique condition, consistent with its age and intended use. The brass retains a warm patina, and all mechanical adjustments are in working order. The mahogany case is sound with minimal signs of wear. The completeness of the set makes it a desirable collector's piece.
We are an independent small business based on the South Coast of England. We try to find beautiful, unique & interesting items we love, that we hope you will too!
We can offer a full house clearance and we advise our customers the best way to deal with their clearance, even taking some items for free . We can also buy your items & offer free evaluations, thus reducing cost for our customers.
Call or whatsapp 07340 580055
We have included shipping costs for mainland UK, but are happy for you to collect in person or we can help with other arrangements.
Choosing a selection results in a full page refresh.
