This microscope is signed on the base J. Swift & Son, 81 Tottenham Court Rd, London. The Swift firm used this name and address during the years 1881-1912. This instrument dates from around 1890. It is designed to function both as a dedicated polarizing microscope as well as a conventional microscope. The analyzing Nicol prism is housed within the main tube in a slide-in mounting, which can be pushed in and out of the optical path. The centering sub-stage can accommodate the polarizing Nicol prism in a rotating mounting when the microscope is used for polarization or an Abbe condenser with iris diaphragm when the instrument is used in the conventional mode. The microscope is constructed of brass with lacquered and black oxidized finishes. The microscope is about 13.5 inches tall in the inclined position as shown in the images with the drawtube extended. Coarse focusing is by rack and pinion and fine focusing is by calibrated micrometer screw. The stage accommodates a sliding slide holder. The substage focuses by rack and pinion and has centering adjustment. The instrument is equipped with four Swift objectives marked 1 1/2, 2/3. 1/6 with correction collar, and a 1/12 oil Immersion, each with brass canisters. In addition, the instruments is supplied with two eyepieces, a selenite stage, and a double objective changer. The mirror is double sided with plane and concave glasses. The microscope is stored in the original wood case having internal fittings and a lock, but no key.

The microscope is mechanically and optically in very good condition. The surface finishes are original and in good condition. The mirrors and Niciol prisms are in very good clear condition. The case is in solid condition, but the top of the cover is warped due to wood shrinkage, but is still firmly attached. The case, at one time, had a leather handle, now gone. This is a fine example of a dual-purpose microscope as made by a firm known for their quality instruments.

Price: SOLD

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