[Joe H]

Handy addition to a c/c "toolbox" - picked up Monday from a Lidl store for the pricely sum of £4.99

The microscope has 60-100 magnification, focusing wheel, swiveling light, requires 2 AA batteries.

Handy for leather or fibres.

Sorry I did'nt post this earlier.

[LTT Leathercare]

We have found that 60 - 100x is too strong for leather but better than nothing, it is usually the directional light that makes the difference as a lot of pocket microscopes only have a fixed one. 
Microscopes are invaluable for leather identification and for problem solving when cleaning or repairing leather.  We had a technician this morning who had a problem of white spots on a leather and if he had used a microscope he would have been able to see what was causing it and whether it was on the surface or underneath the finish.

Magnifiers or linen testers are no good for this type of work as they simply do not show enough magnification and give very little information at all, however they are great for doing repairs under (we have just sourced on that is about 6" square which is brilliant for working underneath.

[*paul_moss]

Got to say I agree with Judy, I have a similar one to the one which Joe has posted but it is too powerful for leather use. I have had the LTT one for a couple of years now and it is very good for leather identification and problem solving.
I think they are around 20 quid, but worth every penny 

[Tony Gill Carpet Smart]

What magnification is best for leather then

CHEERS TONY

[LTT Leathercare]

30x magnification is ideal for leather