Brass Ophthalmometer, ca. 1920

Rare English Ophthalmometer Manufactured in the 1920s-1930s. Made of Brass and Equipped with Electric Lighting

Original ophthalmic device manufactured in London (England) in the 1920s-1930s. It is an ophthalmometer or keratometer, a device used to measure the curvature of a patient's cornea in an ophthalmology or optometry office. Its operation is simple: the device projects a beam of light onto a convex mirror, where it is reflected in a specific pattern. Thanks to this reflection, the ophthalmologist, who is looking directly into the patient's eye, can determine the various points of curvature of the cornea. The device in question is an interesting and attractive vintage machine, undoubtedly having been in use for many years and preserved in good condition.

All parts of this device are original, and none are missing. The ophthalmometer is made of brass except for a few parts that are silver-plated or lacquered, and the patient's chin rest, which is made of brown Bakelite. The metal shows some signs of wear but is in good condition; these signs are part of the device's "lifespan" and lend it an appealing air of nostalgia and antiquity. The electrical wiring is in good condition, although only one of the lights works. The lenses have not been tested, and the rest of the parts move freely and smoothly.

This ophthalmometer is made by Hamblin of London, as indicated by the copper plate affixed to the base of the device, which bears the inscription "HAMBLIN - LONDON" and the serial number 620/417. The name "Hamblin" is also inscribed on each of the two 5x magnification lenses along with the number 635/439, as well as on the eyepiece. Most likely, this name refers to Coton and Hamblin Optometrists, a company that still exists today and has been serving patients in various parts of London since 1903.

This magnificent ophthalmometer will be the centerpiece of any collection of curiosities or early 20th-century scientific instruments, and it also makes a fantastic gift for an ophthalmologist who loves antiques.

Dimensions: Width: 420 mm. Height: 500 mm (approx.).