Quick Facts
Biography
Richard Reeve (fl. 1640 – 1680) was an instrument-maker in London in the 17th century. He worked with Christopher Wren and Robert Hooke. His son was also Richard Reeve (fl. 1680).
Reeve's "telescopes and microscopes had a worldwide reputation for accuracy. Hooke worked with him in a technical advisory capacity". Richard Reeve, or Reeves, of Long Acre, was the foremost fashioner of optical instruments between 1641 and 1679, and "perspective-glass maker to the King".
He was James Gregory's optician. In August 1664 Pepys purchased a microscope from him, "the best he knows in England, and he makes the best in the world." 5 pounds 10 shillings is "a great price," but Reeve throws in a Scotoscope, "and a curious curiosity it is to [see] objects in a dark room with."
Family
Reeve's son, also an instrument maker was Richard Reeve jnr. (fl. 1680).
"Young" Reeve, in Pepys' entry of 23 March 1659/60, would be Richard's son John, who took over the family business in 1679 and ran it until c. 1710.