Solar microscope

Microscope consisting of a brass projection tube with 2 parts of different diameters: the outer part is wider, and the inner one contains a simple microscope (made by Wilson) with the eyepiece, lens, and samples. The upper tube slides inside the lower one using a rack system controlled with a screw for focusing. The whole tube fits into a quadrangular base, the center of which has a rotating, round platform with a rectangular mirror on its lower side and a gear system. This allows the mirror to rotate so it can better reflect the sunlight. The quadrangular base bears the manufacturer's inscription: "J. & W. Watkins. Charing Cross. London."

These microscopes were designed to project the image of what was being observed onto a screen. Many people see them as a development of the camera obscura and magic lantern. To use them, they had to be placed in a dark room with a small opening in the wall. The light that was let in would be reflected off the mirror to illuminate the wall opposite.

This model is attributed to scientific instrument maker, Jeremiah Watkins, who worked in partnership with Walter Watkins. Together, they made a wealth of instruments for different scientific and mathematical purposes, among others.