AO cycloptic stereoscopic compound microscope
Date: circa 1958
Inventory Number: 1999-1-0074
Classification: Microscope
Subject:
Maker: American Optical Company (1833-present)
User: Gray Herbarium (founded 1842)
Cultural Region:
Place of Origin:
Dimensions:
34.5 × 15.8 × 21.5 cm (13 9/16 × 6 1/4 × 8 7/16 in.)
Accessories: dual 10x wide field oculars
Bibliography:
Microscopes and other Optical Instruments published by the American Optical Company
DescriptionThe Spencer AO Cycloptic stereoscopic compound microscope comes in a series of designs. This particular one is "series 58." The microscope has a large, sturdy stand with a box-like base and a thick arm, which permits four inches of working distance. The stage is directly attached to the base and has a circular glass insert and stage clips. (The glass is broken.) The base allows for both incident and transmitted illumination. The substage mirror is square. One side is a plane mirror; the other side is a white card. Its angle is adjusted by a knob on each side of the base.
The binocular body is inclined and reversible. It is supplied with dual 10x wide field oculars in arms whose separation may be varied. There is a single apochromatic objective. Adjustments in magnification are achieved by means of a magnification drum, called a "magni-changer" in the Spencer AO catalogue. This device is located on the side of the body and permits different magnifications to be "dialed-in" by means of rotation.
The main body of the instrument is coated in a dove-gray Epoxy finish.
The binocular body is inclined and reversible. It is supplied with dual 10x wide field oculars in arms whose separation may be varied. There is a single apochromatic objective. Adjustments in magnification are achieved by means of a magnification drum, called a "magni-changer" in the Spencer AO catalogue. This device is located on the side of the body and permits different magnifications to be "dialed-in" by means of rotation.
The main body of the instrument is coated in a dove-gray Epoxy finish.
In Collection(s)
Signedon metal plaque on side of prism housing: AO [in shield] / SPENCER
Inscribedpainted on stage: 610
painted on base: 607
painted on base: 607
Historical AttributesThis instument was used for the teaching paleobotany at the Gray Herbarium, Harvard University.
Primary SourcesAmerican Optical Company, Microscopes and other Optical Instruments published by the American Optical Company, 2nd ed. (Buffalo, NY: American Optical Company, [1949-1956?]).
ProvenancePaleobotany Student Laboratory, Gray Herbarium, Harvard University, Cambridge, MA