https://www.dropbox.com/s/qhs8qf2qw5e4n35/micro_01.jpg?dl=0 From the back
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4vl3rbfkelf1nv9/micro_02.jpg?dl=0 Same, but annotated. 1 = The lens housing 2 = The 'stage'. Basically, just a pin that you stick the subject onto 3 = The handle. using this, the assembly is positioned in front of a strong light.
https://www.dropbox.com/s/4xra81bu2qdsxj9/micro_03.jpg?dl=0 The front, showing the viewing hole
The whole thing actually works. The lens is hit or miss (literally), and it shows. Plenty of chromatic aberration. Basically just a droplet of glass. He tried many times to get it right.
Why did he make it? Well... he has a fascination with old technology. He was a founding member of the British Vintage Wireless Society, and has written a book on the subject of old radios. Also one on ancient navigation techniques. He is an old fashioned polymath. Also have in my possession a replica of Galileo's first telescope. Also works fine.