This beautiful binocular dissecting microscope is signed "R. & J. Beck, 31 Cornhill, London 4843" and was made around 1865. The original model, from which our 3-D Studio Max drawing is derived, resides in the Billings Microscope Collection at the National Museum of Health and Medicine at Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington, D. C.

The circular stage and limb are supported by four 3-inch high brass pillars attached to a 7-inch wooden base. Also attached to the base is a single mirror on a swivel arm. A large aperture in the stage allows transmitted illumination from the substage mirror, and enhancement of oblique illumination is assisted by a bi-convex lens mounted on one of the brass pillars. The limb height is adjustable with a knurled knob and the binocular attachment is free to swivel on the limb. Originally proposed by Nachet, this particular design was conceived by Beck in 1860.

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