A COMPOUND MONOCULAR MICROSCOPE BY R & J BECK, LONDON, CIRCA 1870

constructed in lacquered brass and signed on the 7in. tube as per title and numbered 6784, contained in fitted chest-type box with some accessories, including four nose pieces and alternative eyepieces, lid with retailer's label for J. Kendall, Barrow-in-furness -- 16½in. (42cm.) wide

Dr Mill notes:

James Smith started an instrument company in 1839; appointed Richard Beck as a partner in 1847 to form Smith & Beck. After Joseph Beck joined as a partner it became Smith, Beck & Beck in 1857. It became R & J Beck in 1865. The Company was bought by Griffin & George in 1960 and is now part of Ealing Optical USA. Beck was a major manufacturer up to the 1960s. This is Beck's 2nd Class Microscope called their "Best Student's or No3 stand". It was introduced by 1850 and continued until the late 1880s and was widely used at home by amateurs.

This instrument unlike earlier examples has a full substage. It comes with a flat mahogany box and is equipped with a wide range of accessories e.g. erecting glass;Lieburkuhn; polarizer & analyser; s/s dark cell holder+3 cells; forceps; glass box. There are 4 objectives - 3",1¹/₂", 2/3",1/5". There are 3 eyepieces and a Wenham parabolic condenser. Serial 6784.

A label within the box states "from J.Kendell MRCVS Barrow in Furness to R & J Beck 68 Cornhill London JAN 12th [18]95". The Company were at this address from 1881 to 1994. The Company’s Production book (p 63) shows that the work was given to J. Watson on 16 April 1874 and returned on 8 May.

It was delivered to the Cornhill shop on the 22 May but there is an additional date added later of 28/12/75.

Condition Report

wear to lacquer. Some components missing. case rubbed.

We are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of this property. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Charles Miller Ltd is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD “AS IS” IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE.