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Microscope Museum Collection of antique microscopes and other
scientific instruments |
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Microscope
380 (Negretti & Zambra;
binocroscope; early 20th century)
Negretti & Zambra was founded in
1850 by Enrico Angelo Ludovico (Henry) Negretti (born in Italy; 1818–1879)
and Joseph Warren Zambra (born in Essex; 1822–1897) and traded until the late
20th century. The firm produced scientific and optical instruments
and operated also a photographic studio based in London. They would eventually
be appointed opticians and scientific instrument makers to Her Majesty Queen
Victoria, Prince Albert and King Edward VII, the Royal Observatory
and the British Admiralty. In 1859 the firm produced a large catalogue
containing more than 2000 items and instruments, including microscopes, and
this range doubled a few years later. In this same year the firm moved to a
larger workshop at 1 Hatton Garden. They moved to 103 Hatton Garden in 1867,
and to 38 Holborn Viaduct, as well as premises in Cornhill and Regent Street,
in 1869. Henry Negretti becomes a leader of the Italian community in London.
In 1888, JW Zambra retires and MW Zambra joined his brother JC Zambra and HPJ
Negretti in the partnership. The firm’s 1908 catalogue included various types
of instruments, including binoculars and microscopes. During 1914 – 1918, the
company performs much work for the Ministry of Munitions during the 1st
World War and develops various innovations including early aviation
instruments. In 1947 the firm was listed as manufacturers of industrial,
aeronautical, and meteorological instruments, and in 1948 the company becomes
a Limited Company. In 1985 the company was acquired by Meggitt Holdings.
Microscope 380 is a stereoscopic microscope engraved with “NEGRETTI &
ZAMBRA, LONDON”, the serial number 506214, the magnification “x 15” and the
model’s name “THE BINOCROSCOPE”. The instrument should be dated to the early
20th century. Note: this instrument was kindly
donated by Dave Levell (Pembrokeshire, Wales) in May 2023. |
