This is a specialized and
uncommon microscope. It is signed on the tube E. Leitz,
Wetzlar, No. 123111. On the basis of the serial number,
it can dated to 1909. It is an example of an
entomologist's field microscope. The storage case
serves as the base of the microscope. The microscope
focuses by rack and pinion. In use, the insect specimen
is pinned to a cork which is held in a nickel plated
holder attached to an articulated arm. The height and
orientation of the specimen can be varied at will. Also
attached to another adjustable articulated arm is a
bulls-eye condenser that allows the specimen to be
illuminated from above. In addition, the microscope is
supplied with a mirror allowing observation of the more
transparent parts of the specimen (such as the wings).
The microscope can be quickly dissembled for storage in
the case.
The following was
extracted from the 1913 Leitz catalog: