Smith, Beck & Beck

Scientific instrument company. Founded by James Smith; moved from 50 Ironmonger Row, Old Street, London, to 6 Coleman Street in 1847 when Smith took Richard Beck into partnership. The company traded under the name Smith & Beck until 1856. From 1857 to 1865, with Joseph Beck as a third partner, the company became Smith, Beck & Beck. When Smith retired in 1865, the company moved to 31 Cornhill under the name R. & J. Beck. The partners, James Smith (died 1870), Richard Beck (1827–66), and Joseph Beck (1829–91), were members of the Microscopical Society of London.