Achromatic Table Stereoscope

Region: United Kingdom    Period: 1850–1890    Tag: Smith, Beck and Beck
Stereoscope type: Tabletop » Single-view
Achromatic Table Stereoscope, R & J Beck, England, c. 1865
Achromatic Table Stereoscope, R & J Beck, England, c. 1865
© Stereoscopy History

The Achromatic Table Stereoscope is designed for viewing paper and glass stereoviews. The base plate of the viewer folds into a storage box that also functions as a stand. When stored, the base plate forms the cover of the box and is secured by two locks.

A mirror can be mounted in two brass arms to provide illumination for glass stereoviews. The viewing unit can be tilted to adjust and improve the viewing experience. The standard model used a single arm on the left side to adjust the angle, which could then be secured with a screw. A more refined, or possibly later, model used a central arm without a screw. This results in a more balanced construction.

Related items: Smith, Beck & Beck

Specifications:

Introduction:
c. 1860
Maker:
Smith, Beck & Beck / R & J Beck
Support:
Paper and glass
Format:
8.5 x 15
Lens focus:
Yes
Inter-ocular adjustment:
No
Accessories:
Storage cabinets

Further reading:

  • Wing, Paul. Stereoscopes: The first one hundred years (1996) , pp. 35, 36
Published: 01-02-2026    Last modified: 26-03-2026