Bidspirit auction | 1910 Nachet Petrological Microscope

1910 Nachet Petrological Microscope - An exceptional brass and enameled steel Nachet Petrological No. 2 microscope manufactured by the renowned French optics firm Nachet & Fils at 17 Rue St. Séverin in Paris, explicitly dated February 10, 1910, on its original internal magnification chart. This specialized geological instrument features a rotating stage, built-in substage polarizers, and high-quality mechanical adjustments characteristic of the era. The instrument is housed in its original, velvet-lined mahogany transport case and is accompanied by its original brass barrel key and two matching velvet-lined accessory trays containing additional eyepieces and optical components. Objectively assessing the condition, the microscope exhibits minor surface wear, age-related patina, and dust on the brass and enameled components, but mechanical knobs and stage assemblies appear intact. The mahogany case shows light surface scuffs and handling wear consistent with age, while the interior paper chart remains legible with minor foxing. Notably, one auxiliary eyepiece exhibits significant glass breakage on one side of its lens elements, and the entire assembly is untested for visual clarity. H 16”, W 8”, D 7.25”. Please see photos for condition. From the Dale Beeks collection.