A TURVILLE-STEWART OPHTHALMOSCOPE, HAND-SLIT LAMP AND RETINOSCOPE By Ellis Optical Company, London Circa 1926-1935. A remarkable example of British optical innovation from the interwar period, this Turville-Stewart represents a revolutionary "multum in parvo" (much in little) design that combined three essential ophthalmic diagnostic instruments into a single portable unit. Developed through collaboration between A.E. Turville (optometrist) and Dr. Stewart (ophthalmologist), both members of their local radio society, and manufactured by the prestigious Ellis Optical Company of London.​ The Turville-Stewart was introduced in 1926 during a golden age of ophthalmoscope development, when British and American makers competed to create increasingly sophisticated diagnostic instruments. This design emerged shortly after Crampton's 1915 introduction of the battery-powered handle, which liberated ophthalmoscopes from table-mounted power sources.​ Technical Description This instrument showcases exceptional engineering, combining: Ophthalmoscope Function: For direct and indirect examination of the fundus and retina Hand-Slit Lamp: For biomicroscopic examination of the anterior eye segment Retinoscope: For objective refraction assessment The unit features: Black enameled cylindrical body with professional-grade finish Brass and nickel-plated metal fittings Original electrical cord Knurled adjustment mechanisms for precise control Complete set of interchangeable aperture plates numbered 01, 02, RF1, RF2, CS, R1, R2 (black enameled with white numbering) Yellow filter indicator visible in lens assembly Threaded battery compartment at base The fitted case is black leatherette over wood with gold-blocked lettering reading "TURVILLE-STEWART / OPHTHALMOSCOPE, HAND-SLIT LAMP AND RETINOSCOPE" with blue velvet-lined interior and individual compartments for instrument and aperture plates It comes with the original instruction booklet in original tan titled "The Turville Stewart Ophthalmoscope, Hand-Slit-Lamp and Retinoscope: Description and Instructions" published by Ellis Optical Company​ Condition Good to excellent original condition with operational wear consistent with professional use. All aperture plates present and legible. Case shows period wear to exterior covering but remains structurally sound with intact hinge and clasp. Blue velvet lining shows minor compression but no losses. Electrical cord present (condition untested—recommend display only). Original instruction manual complete and intact—a rare survival. Provenance & Collectability The Turville-Stewart is highly sought after by collectors of ophthalmic instruments and medical antiques. Listed in the Ophthalmic Antiques International Collectors' Club index as a notable sale item. Examples are held in museum collections including the MusEYEum (College of Optometrists collection).​ The combination of original case, complete aperture set, and instruction manual makes this an exceptional example—most survivors have lost these accessories through decades of clinical use. Dimensions Instrument: Approximately 270mm length Case: 300mm x 100mm x 55mm