⭕ A very nice and particularly scarce Large Best Portable binocular microscope from Smith Beck & Beck from 1865.This is the only example of this model Ive come across from this prestigious firm before Smiths retirement,and may well be the earliest surviving example of this particular model.It is almost identical to Allan Wissners 1872 R & J example,purchased earlier this year,which is lavishly illustrated and described on his justly celebrated site.It differs from Allans primarily in its rectangular,rather than circular stage,and in the particular assortment of accessories contained in the main case.While Allans has three additional independent accessory cases,all accessories included with this one are housed within the scopes single case.This model was introduced,I believe,at the 1862 International Exhibition (see Handbook to the industrial department of the International exhibition,robert Hunt) and is also specifically mentioned in A treatise on the construction,proper use,and capabilities of Smith,Beck and Becks Achromatic Microscopes of 1865 (the very year this instrument was completed) It is in very nice condition retaining over 90% original lacquer,but is unfortunately missing the stand-mounted bulls-eye condenser and the zoophyte trough (though these are easy enough to find).