An exceptional, highly collectible piece of late 19th-century scientific engineering. This stunning monocular travel microscope was manufactured by the renowned London opticians J. Swift & Son around 1880, bearing the incredibly early serial number 510 cleanly engraved on the polished brass optical body tube.
 
Engineered specifically for naturalists, geologists, and medical field workers, this model features a ingenious folding tripod base that collapses flat alongside a pivoting stage, transforming a fully functional laboratory microscope into a highly compact, portable field unit. This remarkably complete outfit includes: The Microscope Stand: Polished brass and silvered draw-tube with a fine rack-and-pinion coarse focus focus dial. Features a fully adjustable plano-concave mirror and a built-in Abbe-type substage condenser.  Optics & Accessories: An expansive selection of antique lenses, extra monocular draw-tubes, and multiple original threaded brass objective storage canisters (including a vintage cap marked 'I.N. DAVON'). 
 
The Case: Accompanied by its authentic, rugged, thick-hide brown leather travel pouch featuring its original leather strap, handle, and a wonderfully weathered antique patina.
 
Condition: Mechanically and visually excellent for its age. The brass displays a beautiful, warm, authentic gold lacquer. The focusing mechanisms operate smoothly, and the engraving remains perfectly crisp and legible. A premier addition to any collection of historic scientific instruments or Victorian brassware.
 
The case measures 29 x 9 x 12cm approximately (11.5" x 3.5" x 4.7").