Famous English designer and maker of scientific instruments. Succeeded his father George Adams Senior (1709-1772) as manufacturer of mathematical instruments to King George III (1738-1820). Wrote many treatises on instruments and experimental philosophy: Essay on Vision (London, 1789), Astronomical and Geographical Essays (London,1789), Essay on Electricity with an Essay on Magnetism (London, 1784), and Essay on the Microscope (London, 1787). Achieved special distinction in construction of microscopes and electrostatic machines.