Antique Carl Zeiss Jena Herschel Prism with Landolt Scale – Original Wooden Case For Sale

Rare historical ophthalmic optical instrument manufactured by Carl Zeiss Jena, Germany.

Offered for sale is an antique Herschel\'s Prism with Landolt\'s Graduation (Herschelsches Prisma mit Landoltscher Teilung), a precision optical instrument associated with historical ophthalmological examinations and the measurement of ocular deviations.

The instrument bears the Carl Zeiss Jena manufacturer\'s marking and the number 201.

It is preserved in its original fitted wooden storage case, which retains the German identification label.

The Herschel double-prism system, combined with Landolt\'s graduated scale, was developed for ophthalmological examinations involving binocular vision, ocular alignment and the measurement of prismatic deviation.

Such instruments represent an interesting period in the development of precision medical optics, when mechanical optical devices played an important role in clinical eye examinations.

Today, this instrument would make an excellent addition to a collection of antique ophthalmological equipment, historical scientific instruments, German precision optics or Carl Zeiss memorabilia.

The instrument is in good overall antique condition, showing age-related wear consistent with its considerable age.

The following observations were made during personal testing:

• The graduated adjustment mechanism rotates smoothly.
• The optical system produces clearly visible changes in the observed image when the adjustment is rotated.
• At the zero position, straight vertical lines appear relatively straight.
• When the mechanism is rotated, noticeable optical distortion and curvature of straight lines can be observed.
• The optical effect changes according to the direction of adjustment.
• Both removable optical elements, including the red and green components, are included and have been tested visually.

Optical cleanliness:

There is some light internal contamination or haze visible on the optical surfaces under certain lighting conditions and viewing angles.

This may consist of accumulated dust or other age-related deposits. The contamination is not severe and is barely noticeable during ordinary viewing through the instrument.

The instrument has not been disassembled or internally cleaned, in order to preserve its original condition and avoid unnecessary interference with its delicate optical components.

Any internal cleaning, servicing or restoration should be undertaken at the discretion of the new owner, preferably by a qualified specialist.

Important: Although the adjustment mechanism operates smoothly and the optical system produces observable effects, the instrument has not been professionally inspected, calibrated or tested for medical accuracy. Full original functionality cannot be guaranteed.

• Original Carl Zeiss Jena Herschel prism instrument
• Removable optical components, including red and green elements
• Original fitted wooden storage case with identification label

Everything shown in the photographs is included.

A fascinating historical optical instrument from one of Germany\'s most respected manufacturers of precision scientific equipment.

Suitable for collectors of:

• Antique medical and ophthalmological instruments
• Carl Zeiss Jena optical equipment
• Historical scientific and laboratory instruments
• Early 20th-century German precision engineering
• Optical and medical history

Please examine all photographs carefully, as they form an important part of the description.

Sold as an antique collectible, not as a certified or calibrated medical instrument.

The item will be carefully packed for safe international shipping.