Adams's universal compound microscope
Date: 1805-1811
Inventory Number: 1185
Classification: Microscope
Dimensions:54 x 25 x 25.5 cm (21 1/4 x 9 13/16 x 10 1/16 in.)
case: 8.5 x 45 x 31.5 cm (3 3/8 x 17 11/16 x 12 3/8 in.)
Accessories: 6 objectives 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8; two high power/ short focal length lenses in round brass boxes: A, B; 2 lenses in black rings in cylindrical boxes for aquatic use: 30, 40; 3 Lieberkühns with lenses; cone diaphragm; polarizer set; brass live box; 2 stage forceps; frog plate; 2 oculars; tweezers; brush; brass wet cell preparation slide; 10 ivory slides; ivory box with slide covers and rings; spring stage mount; watch glass and bracket; bull's eye on stand; case.
DescriptionThis is a brass universal compound microscope in the later style of George Adams's "universal compound microscope." It is similar to what became known as "Jones's most improved" microscope, which has a body with a slightly different shape. Like other so-called universal microscopes, it can be set up as either a compound or simple microscope.
A tube with threaded ocular and intermediate lens is threaded into an arm with aquatic motion. A wheel assembly with 6 objectives screws into the arm from below. Alternatively, a magnifier with Lieberkuhn screws into the arm. The arm is mounted at the top of a square limb, which is held by a compass joint to a tapered tubular pillar with molded top and base. The pillar stands on a folding tripod base. The stage is moved by rack and pinion for focusing. A substage mirror and condensing lens slide on the limb.
This instrument is currently fitted with a "modern" eyepiece and polarizing set-up either by Banks or some other skilled instrument maker.