A rare 18th century variable microscope by eminent instrument maker George Adams sold for £88,000 at specialist science and early technology auctioneer Flints.
This c.1773 instrument was produced in the year George Adams Snr (c.1709-73) died. Unusually, it is signed Ann and George Adams – A & G Adams at No 60 Fleet Street, London. This is a reference to his second wife and son who traded under this name for just two years from 1773-75. When George Adams Jnr (1750-95) had completed his apprenticeship, the company took his name.
Flints’ instruments specialist Matt Nunn said it is rare to have an instrument of this period signed by a woman and is the only example he is aware of that is signed by both wife and son.