Description

A C1880, cased, all-brass compound monocular microscope by J. Parkes & Son, Birmingham. Almost identical to Fig. 437 in Billings (2^nd edition, 1974, p: 221), the only difference being that the example we are offering has a revolving disc of diaphragms beneath the stage. Quoting from Billings: “The claw-footed base of this all-brass instrument has a spread of & x 5-3/4- inches, the two 4-inch-high- pillars are screwed into the base. The gimbal for the 2-1/2- inch double mirror is attached to the 3-1/2-inch -long swinging tailpiece. The 3 x 4-inch stage place carries a rack and two milled-head pinions to provide motion for the Turrell mechanical stage.

The collar carries a triangular bar with rack at the back and two milled wheel pinions. The 8-1/2-inch-long body tube screws into the front of the 4-inch arm which is attached to the top of the triangular bar. The fine adjustment at the rear of the body tube; an ocular and objective are attached. When closed it is 17-1/2- inches in height. It is signed, ‘J. Parkes & Son, 5&6 St. Mary’s Row, Birmingham. ‘”   

It retains its original mahogany case. There are three objective, each with a brass case,  and two eye pieces.

Overall condition is very good with virtually all of the lacquer intact. The only notable flaw is that the smaller side of the mirror is crazed.