Ernst Leiz Microscope, first quarter of the 20th century

ERNST LEIZ WETZLAR microscope from the first quarter of the 20th century.
Metal and black lacquered brass.
In its original wooden box.
The key is missing.
Exhibits wear consistent with age and use.
Measurements: 31 x 10 x 14 cm (microscope); 34 x 18 x 21 cm (box).

Ernst Leitz GmbH was a German company based in Wetzlar, a German center for optics and an important location for the precision engineering industry. The excellent mechanic Ernst Leitz I (1843-1920) arrived in Wetzlar in 1864 and went to work at the Optical Institute. He trained as an instrument maker for physical and chemical apparatus. He introduced mass production, rapidly increasing the volume of sales from 1871 onwards. In consultation with his customers, he continued to refine the microscopes according to their needs. Microscopes were produced for biomedical and industrial purposes, including mineralogy.