Microscope Museum

Collection of antique microscopes and other scientific instruments

 

      

Microscope 461 (assigned to Townson & Mercer; dissecting simple microscope; c. 1900)

 

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Microscope 461 is a simple dissecting microscope. The instrument is not signed but has a peculiar form and is identical to a dissecting microscope sold by Townson & Mercer, described in an 1894 catalogue of the firm as “Microscope, dissecting, on iron stage, glass stage” (Figure 1). The microscope should be dated to c. 1900. Townson and Mercer are, still today, well-known scientific instruments and chemicals suppliers. The company was established in 1798, manufacturing laboratory, scientific and medical glassware and apparatus. The company traded at 89 Bishopsgate Street (1870s-1890s), 34 Chamomile Street and 89 Bishopsgate Street (1900s) and 34 Chamomile Street with 55 Bishopsgate Street, London, England. It is unclear if the firm actually produced their microscopes or were just retailers. In 2001, the company was acquired by Record Electrical Ltd, and now is part of Record Electrical Associates, formed to exploit the consolidated group strengths in Laboratory, Electrical Measurement and Indication and Sheet Steel Manufacturing.

 

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Figure 1. Townson & Mercer’s dissecting microscope as featured in an 1894 catalogue of the firm.