Antique Simmance-Abady Mechanical Flicker Photometer. England, 1910

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Antique Simmance-Abady Mechanical Stroboscopic Photometer. England, 1910

Rare antique Simmance-Abady stroboscopic photometer, mechanically operated and manufactured in England in the early 20th century (1910). The photometer is very well preserved and works perfectly. This model is one of the earliest photometers used in light research. Today, models like this are considered true museum pieces: for example, the Science Museum in London has one in its collection. It is a compact instrument, consisting of a mahogany wooden case that houses the mechanism. In addition to being an antique and functional object, its attractive design also makes it a highly decorative piece.

Flicker photometers were used to compare the intensity of light emitted by two different sources. They are scientific measuring instruments whose operation is based on a physical principle. This principle states that the flicker between two lights of different colors emitted alternately is reduced to a minimum when the intensity of the light from both sources is equal. Each beam of light enters the photometer through the side windows and is reflected off two white plates. The user must look through the viewfinder and rotate the device; they will then see a series of flashes or flickers. If the light sources have the same intensity, the flickering will disappear.

This beautiful instrument retains its solid mahogany case in very good condition. The wood has a smooth surface, a beautiful satin finish, and all the richness imparted by the species intense red color. The four pieces that make up the case are joined by attractive and sturdy handcrafted tongue-and-groove joints. The case is connected to a series of adjustable black-lacquered iron parts, notably the semicircular scale and the brass viewfinder. On the scale, the SIMMANCE-ABADY logo and the devices name, FLICKER PHOTOMETER, are clearly enameled in white.

Thanks to its scientific significance and attractive design, this fantastic antique Simmance-Abady mechanical flicker photometer will shine with its own light in any collection.

Dimensions: Width: 19 cm. Height: 20 cm.