Microscope Museum

Collection of antique microscopes and other scientific instruments

Microscope 380 (Negretti & Zambra; binocroscope; early 20^th century)

Negretti & Zambra was founded in 1850 by Enrico Angelo Ludovico (Henry) Negretti (born in Italy; 1818–1879) and Joseph Warren Zambra (born in Essex; 1822–1897) and traded until the late 20^th century. The firm produced scientific and optical instruments and operated also a photographic studio based in London. They would eventually be appointed opticians and scientific instrument makers to Her Majesty Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and King Edward VII, the Royal Observatory and the British Admiralty. In 1859 the firm produced a large catalogue containing more than 2000 items and instruments, including microscopes, and this range doubled a few years later. In this same year the firm moved to a larger workshop at 1 Hatton Garden. They moved to 103 Hatton Garden in 1867, and to 38 Holborn Viaduct, as well as premises in Cornhill and Regent Street, in 1869. Henry Negretti becomes a leader of the Italian community in London. In 1888, JW Zambra retires and MW Zambra joined his brother JC Zambra and HPJ Negretti in the partnership. The firm’s 1908 catalogue included various types of instruments, including binoculars and microscopes. During 1914 – 1918, the company performs much work for the Ministry of Munitions during the 1^st World War and develops various innovations including early aviation instruments. In 1947 the firm was listed as manufacturers of industrial, aeronautical, and meteorological instruments, and in 1948 the company becomes a Limited Company. In 1985 the company was acquired by Meggitt Holdings. Microscope 380 is a stereoscopic microscope engraved with “NEGRETTI & ZAMBRA, LONDON”, the serial number 506214, the magnification “x 15” and the model’s name “THE BINOCROSCOPE”. The instrument should be dated to the early 20^th century.

Note: this instrument was kindly donated by Dave Levell (Pembrokeshire, Wales) in May 2023.