This handheld compound microscope is signed in script on the lower
section of the tube Stokes & Watson, 6, Market Street, Manchester.
A microscope, like the one shown here,
is often referred to as a “demonstration microscope”.
In use, the microscope is pointed toward a light source. During a
lecture, such a microscope can be passed around from student
to student for observation of the specimen under discussion.
The microscope measures 6½-inches long when in the closed position. At the lower
end of the tube, the specimen slide is inserted into a spring-loaded holder. Focusing is
achieved by a screw mechanism that moves the upper section of the tube that
holds the objective to and from the section that holds the specimen
slide. The microscope, along with a some slides, is stored in a plush lined leather covered case
measuring 7x2½x2 inches. The top of the case is imprinted with the maker's name and address.
The firm Stokes & Watson was in business from the 1860's to the early 20th
century. They were typical opticians of the period. They made and/or
sold a variety of instruments including microscopes, microscope slides,
lantern slides, camera lenses, gramophone cylinder recordings, binoculars, barometers,
eyeglasses, etc.
