Vintage Student’s Microscope Set by J & L Randall Ltd – Merit Precision, Made in England (c. 1940s–1950s)
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Step back into the golden age of curiosity and discovery with this beautifully preserved vintage Student’s Microscope No. 2, a complete educational science outfit produced in England by J & L Randall Ltd under their respected Merit Precision brand.
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Designed for students, schools, and inquisitive young minds in post-war Britain, this charming microscope set captures a time when learning was hands-on, mechanical, and quietly magical.
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The Microscope
Crafted from metal with a textured black enamel finish and polished chrome eyepiece, the microscope offers 70x magnification, described by the maker as being “optically and mechanically of the highest quality.” A red “Made in England” Merit seal remains proudly intact on the body, adding both authenticity and visual appeal.
The microscope stands firmly on its base, with a simple stage and slide clips, and retains its original, honest character with no modern alterations.
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What’s Included
This is a rare and highly desirable complete set, retaining its original components:
Vintage Student’s Microscope No. 2
Original SEL specimen slides box by J & L Randall Ltd (with slides present)
Original metal forceps
Illustrated Merit Microscopes instruction booklet with experiments
Period Merit catalogue leaflet showing chemistry and electrical outfits
Original cardboard retail box with inner tray and tissue packing
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Survival of all these elements together is increasingly uncommon and greatly enhances both collectability and display value.
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Condition
Microscope: very good vintage condition with clean metalwork and intact enamel
Paper ephemera: complete, gently aged, and highly evocative
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Box: original with age-related wear, creases, and patina consistent with use and storage
All wear is entirely in keeping with age and adds to the authenticity and charm of the piece.
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Size boxed 18cm x 12cm x 8cm
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Why We Love It
This set is far more than a scientific instrument – it’s a snapshot of mid-20th-century education, perfect for collectors of scientific instruments, educational antiques, or anyone who loves objects that tell a story. It also makes a wonderful decorative piece for a study, bookshelf, or curiosity cabinet.
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Key Details
Maker: J & L Randall Ltd
Brand: Merit Precision
Origin: Made in England
Date: c. 1940s–1950s
Magnification: 70x
Type: Student / educational microscope
Set: Complete with slides, forceps, instructions, and original box
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✨ A wonderfully nostalgic British science set, beautifully complete and full of quiet curiosity – a piece that invites you to look closer.