Estate Coins & Currency, Vintage Women's Fashions, Vintage Medical and other Collectibles
Lot 108:
Description
A Bausch & Lomb Lens Comparator, a specialized ophthalmic phorometer examination and demonstration instrument manufactured by the Bausch & Lomb Optical Co. of Rochester, New York. This device was designed for optical professionals to illustrate the visual performance differences between various lens designs, specifically Punktal, Toric, and standard flat lenses. The instrument features a heavy cast metal frame with a black textured crackle finish, a rotating lens turret, and a large circular target disc. The turret is mounted with three distinct lenses and is engraved with the labels PUNKTAL, TORIC, and FLAT LENS. A fixed eyepiece is positioned on a curved arm for viewing through the selected lens against the target. The target disc contains multiple printed text charts arranged at specific intervals to demonstrate peripheral visual effects, labeled CENTER, 15 FROM CENTER, and 30 FROM CENTER for strong, weak, and intermediate meridians. A rectangular metal identification plate on the central arm reads: LENS COMPARATOR, BAUSCH & LOMB OPTICAL CO., ROCHESTER, N.Y. U.S.A., No 2042, PATENT APP’D. FOR. The instrument is housed in its original hardwood storage case with finger-jointed construction and internal supports.Weight: 3050 grams (6 lbs 11.6 oz)Height: Approximately 10.5 inchesDisc Diameter: Approximately 8 inches.
Condition report:
The instrument appears to be in good overall condition. The black crackle finish is well-preserved with minimal wear. Lenses in the turret and eyepiece appear clear and free of major defects. Mechanical components, including the rotating turret and tilting hinge, are functional. The wooden case shows age-related wear, including scratches, scuffs to the finish, and minor edge wear; the metal latch and hinges are present and functional but show some oxidation.
Share this lot:
