A rare example of a 19th-century French monocular microscope by one of the most famous names in the history of microscopy, Parisian makers Nachet et Fils. Dating precisely to their historic 1863–1872 production window, this instrument represents the absolute pinnacle of mid-Victorian scientific optical engineering.
 
Design & Mechanics:
The Instrument: Built with a heavy lacquered brass horseshoe foot ), the base features the beautifully preserved, hand-engraved signature: “NACHET ET FILS, 17 rue St. Severin, Paris”. Camille Nachet (the founder) and his son Jean Alfred worked under the name Nachet et Fils starting around 1863. They moved their workshop to 17 rue St. Severin in 1863 and remained at this specific address until roughly 1872, providing a tight and historically accurate window for this instrument.
 
Optical System: Features a smooth draw-tube coarse focus alongside Nachet's signature screw-thread fine adjustment mechanism. It comes equipped with an articulating stage-mounted bulls-eye condenser lens for surface illumination, an adjustable sub-stage mirror, and a mechanical specimen stage.
 
The Complete Set: Housed in its original, velvet-lined fitted mahogany case. The lot features a supplementary objective lens storage box containing two additional objective brass canisters, extra eyepieces, and a fascinating, hand-inked period chart tracking focal lengths, powers, and calculations as well as some recent downloads of pertinent information.
 
Condition Report:
The microscope is in very good antique condition, retaining its original golden lacquer with only minor, honest cosmetic wear to the brass. Mechanically sound, the adjustments turn smoothly and the glass components remain remarkably clear. The mahogany case retains its deep, rich patina and vibrant padded purple velvet interior lining, which has a tear. A premier centrepiece for any collection of historical scientific artifacts.
 
The case measures 28.7 x 16 x 11.2cm approximately (11.3" x 6.3" x 4.4").