Check the listing for details. Vintage Model Swift SMB 58646 Microscope from Swift Optical-Original Case w Key. Listed at 249.95 USD. Swift SMB 58646 Microscope Vintage Model from Swift Optical-Original Case. Excellent USED Vintage Condition with no seen flaws, scratches or issues. Case a bit worn, two of the rubber feet missing from bottom of case as shown in pictures. Clasp works with key included. Shipped with USPS or FedEx Included in this Auction: - Swift SMB # 58646 Microscope - Illumination in working condition(does turn on) - (4) objective Lenses all SWIFT - 4 0.15 no. 60344 - 10 0.25 no. 58646 - 40 0.65 no. 58646 - HI 100 1.25 no. 58646 - Misc. cleaning items - Lens Cases - Original Case with missing carrying handle and (2) missing rubber feet on bottom of case. From the Web: The Swift SMB 58646 Microscope is a vintage model from Swift Optical, a well-respected brand in the field of microscopy. Swift Optical, founded in the early 20th century, became known for producing durable and reliable microscopes for both educational and professional use. The model SMB 58646 is one of their high-quality optical instruments, typically used in academic, medical, or laboratory settings. This specific model represents a good example of the mid-20th-century style of microscopes, combining solid construction, functional design, and optical clarity.Overview of the Swift SMB 58646 Microscope: The Swift SMB 58646 is a monocular microscope, primarily designed for observing biological samples under magnification, though it can also be used in a variety of other fields such as material science. These types of microscopes are usually equipped with multiple objective lenses, a high-quality eyepiece, and a variety of other features that make them useful for both educational and professional research purposes.Key Features and Specifications: Optical System:Monocular ViewingEyepieces: The microscope typically features 10x or 12.5x eyepieces, which is standard for educational microscopes. These eyepieces offer a comfortable field of view for detailed observation.Objectives: The microscope would likely come with a set of rotating objective lenses, typically offering 4x, 10x, 40x, and possibly 100x magnification. This allows users to choose different levels of magnification, depending on the type of sample being examined.The 4x and 10x objectives are lower magnifications used for scanning and viewing large samples, while the 40x and 100x objectives are high magnification for more detailed examination of specimens.The 100x objective is usually an oil immersion lens, which means that it requires a special oil to increase resolution and allow viewing of finer details, especially in biological specimens like cells. Focusing Mechanism:The Swift SMB 58646 is equipped with both a coarse focus and fine focus mechanism, which allows for precise adjustments in focusing. The coarse focus is used for general adjustments, while the fine focus provides finer control to bring the image into sharp clarity, especially at higher magnifications.This dual focus system is essential for accurate viewing, particularly when switching between different objective lenses. Stage and Mechanical Features:The mechanical stage is typically graduated, allowing for precise movement of the slide. The stage often has a x-y axis control system, which makes it easy to move the slide left to right and up and down. This feature is particularly helpful when scanning larger specimens or locating specific areas of interest on a slide.The stage may also include clip holders to secure the slide in place. Illumination System:The Swift SMB 58646 microscope uses transmitted light, meaning that light passes through the sample from below to illuminate it. This is standard for compound microscopes and is ideal for viewing transparent specimens like cells, tissues, or thin sections of biological materials.The light source is typically a built-in incandescent bulb or a halogen lamp, which is adjustable in brightness. The illumination system may have an adjustable condenser to focus the light on the specimen, improving contrast and clarity.Some models may include a Köhler illumination system, a more advanced feature that provides even lighting across the entire field of view. This system allows for greater image contrast and clarity, especially important in professional and educational settings. Body and Construction:The body of the SMB 58646 is typically made from metal, often with a painted or powder-coated finish to protect it from corrosion and wear. The sturdy construction ensures the microscope's durability and longevity.The base and arm are usually designed to be stable, providing a solid platform for viewing and reducing vibrations that could affect the clarity of the image.The arm is designed to hold the optical components at the correct angle, typically around 45 degrees to provide a comfortable viewing position. Additional Features:The Swift SMB 58646 may also feature a diopter adjustment on the eyepiece, which allows users to compensate for differences in vision between their eyes, ensuring that both eyes can focus properly.The rack and pinion mechanism that controls the focusing of the objective lenses is smooth and allows for precise adjustments.The model might include a revolving nosepiece, which enables quick switching between objective lenses without having to manually remove and replace each lens.Some variants of the SMB 58646 could come with a polarizer or filter system, which can be useful for viewing certain types of samples, such as mineral slides or specimens that require specific light wavelengths. Size and Weight:The Swift SMB 58646 is typically a mid-sized microscope, standing at around 12 to 14 inches tall and weighing approximately 5 to 8 pounds. Its weight provides stability, ensuring that the microscope remains steady during use, but it is still portable enough for laboratory or classroom settings.Vintage Appeal and Collectibility: As a vintage microscope, the Swift SMB 58646 can be considered a collectible, particularly for enthusiasts of vintage scientific equipment or those who appreciate the history of optical instruments. These microscopes are well-regarded for their robust build quality and the clarity of their optics, and many collectors value them for their durability and timeless design. If the microscope is in good condition, it can still be used effectively in modern settings. However, many collectors seek these models as display pieces due to their classic aesthetic and vintage charm.Conclusion: The Swift SMB 58646 Microscope is a solid example of a vintage compound microscope designed for educational and professional use. With its robust construction, multiple objective lenses, binocular viewing, and adjustable illumination, it remains a valuable tool for detailed observation of biological or material specimens. Whether used as a functional instrument or a collector's item, the SMB 58646 represents a well-built and reliable model in the world of vintage optical instruments.