John Cuff (1708-1792) was a maker of spectacles and microscopes in London. His principal patron was Henry Baker (1698-1774), who published several popular books on microscopy, which included engravings of several of Cuff's microscopes. The principal advantage of Cuff's instruments was the improved accessibility for hand manipulation of the specimen by the microscopist, compared to the then popular, but inconvenient, three-pillared microscopes of Culpeper. In addition, Cuff's instruments improved the focusing mechanism.

The design of this instrument, signed "J. Cuff, Londini fecit" on the stage, became well known and was imitated by numerous other microscope makers for many years. Although he was a fine instrument maker, he was apparently a poor business man, and was declared bankrupt in 1750. He continued to make instruments until 1758, when he had to give up his shop in London.

This microscope has six objectives (labeled "1" - "6") and a Bonanni spring-loaded specimen holder.

Of interest is the fine focus adjustment and the hand-engraved reflected light position markings.

A drawer is inserted into the front of the wooden case. It contains extra objectives and an auxiliary lens for epi-illumination.