Smith Beck & Beck
Achromatic Stereoscope
Serial Number 704

London, England
ca. 1860

This was one of the better stereoscopes produced at the time both in design and construction. Achromatic lenses were used to improve color rendering. these could be individually adjusted to suit the sight of the viewer. When in use the stereoscope sits on its box. the viewing angle can be adjusted as can the illumination of the slide by changing the position of a mirror. when not in use the stereoscope is inverted and folds away into its protective box. Cabinets were made to hold the stereoscope and a number of stereo slides. these were produced in different sizes and finishes. A Smith Beck & Beck pamphlet from 1860 lists the stereoscope at £3.10.0 in walnut and £3.3.0 in mahogany.