<p>
	Scientific instruments are for the most part instruments used for measuring or observing or the two at a time.&nbsp; The instruments which mostly interest the collector are those pertaining to nautical, optical and astronomical sciences.&nbsp; Instruments dating from before the industrial revolution were hand-made and hence rare and expensive but even the later instruments are often in mahogany and richly decorated brass or bronze.&nbsp;&nbsp; The beauty of the <a href="http://www.antiques-in-france.com/antiquites/-/-/-/old-barometers">antique barometer</a> or the <a href="http://www.antiques-in-france.com/antiquites/-/-/-/sextants">antique sextant</a> make them very collectible.</p>