Microscope - Illuminator - 1930-1940 - United States - Bausch & Lomb
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Brand Bausch & Lomb, Illuminator model, a complete vintage microscope illumination system from the 1930s–1940s in the USA, comprising the articulated illuminator and the Type 31-36-44 ballast transformer, physical condition good and electrical condition not tested; dimensions: height about 37 cm, base diameter about 10 cm, transformer 12 × 24 cm; weight 2.75 kg.
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Description from the seller
Vintage Bausch & Lomb Microscope Illuminator & Ballast Transformer Set (Type 31-36-44) – USA, c. 1930-1940
An original and complete Bausch & Lomb microscope illumination system, manufactured in Rochester, New York, USA, between the 1930s and 1940s. This matching laboratory set consists of the articulated microscope illuminator together with its original Type 31-36-44 ballast transformer/resistor, making it an increasingly scarce survivor from the golden age of scientific instrumentation.
Unlike many surviving examples assembled from mixed components, both the illuminator and transformer are original Bausch & Lomb pieces. The lamp features a heavy cast-metal construction with adjustable articulated arm, precision collector lens with blue anti-reflective coating and original cream-coloured adjustment handles. The matching transformer is housed in its distinctive perforated steel cylindrical casing for heat dissipation and retains its original specification plate.
Bausch & Lomb was one of the world's leading manufacturers of scientific and optical equipment, supplying laboratories, universities and research institutes throughout the 20th century. Today these industrial instruments are highly appreciated by collectors of scientific antiques and enthusiasts of industrial design.
The set includes the original heavy-duty power cable with bakelite inline ON/OFF switch ("Arrow H&H", Made in USA), period green bakelite European plug and original cloth-insulated cable connecting the transformer to the lamp.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Bausch & Lomb Optical Co., Rochester, N.Y., USA
Period: approx. 1930-1940
Transformer: Type 31-36-44
Plate specifications: Line 115 Volts | Lamp 6.5 Volts | 2.75 Amps
Approx. total weight: 2.75 kg
Approx. microscope height (as shown): 37 cm
Approx. base diameter: 10 cm
Approx. transformer: 12 × 24 cm
Condition
Very good vintage condition with normal signs of age and laboratory use. The original finish, metalwork and optics are well preserved, and the lens remains clear. The transformer retains its original identification plate and decorative ventilated housing.
The electrical condition is unknown and untested.
The seller is not qualified to test or assess vintage electrical equipment. The cloth-insulated wiring shows age-related wear and fraying near the housing. The set is therefore offered strictly as a collectible/display item and is sold as-is.
Any future use should only follow inspection, rewiring or conversion by a qualified professional.
Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description.
Seller's Story
We are a passionate team of skilled collectors dedicated to sourcing truly unique and rare vintage pieces. On Catawiki, we showcase only our finest finds. Carefully curated, lovingly selected, and offered with the lowest possible shipping rates as a service to our buyers.
Every item is professionally packed the very next day and shipped via registered mail for a safe and reliable delivery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help.
Vintage Bausch & Lomb Microscope Illuminator & Ballast Transformer Set (Type 31-36-44) – USA, c. 1930-1940
An original and complete Bausch & Lomb microscope illumination system, manufactured in Rochester, New York, USA, between the 1930s and 1940s. This matching laboratory set consists of the articulated microscope illuminator together with its original Type 31-36-44 ballast transformer/resistor, making it an increasingly scarce survivor from the golden age of scientific instrumentation.
Unlike many surviving examples assembled from mixed components, both the illuminator and transformer are original Bausch & Lomb pieces. The lamp features a heavy cast-metal construction with adjustable articulated arm, precision collector lens with blue anti-reflective coating and original cream-coloured adjustment handles. The matching transformer is housed in its distinctive perforated steel cylindrical casing for heat dissipation and retains its original specification plate.
Bausch & Lomb was one of the world's leading manufacturers of scientific and optical equipment, supplying laboratories, universities and research institutes throughout the 20th century. Today these industrial instruments are highly appreciated by collectors of scientific antiques and enthusiasts of industrial design.
The set includes the original heavy-duty power cable with bakelite inline ON/OFF switch ("Arrow H&H", Made in USA), period green bakelite European plug and original cloth-insulated cable connecting the transformer to the lamp.
Specifications
Manufacturer: Bausch & Lomb Optical Co., Rochester, N.Y., USA
Period: approx. 1930-1940
Transformer: Type 31-36-44
Plate specifications: Line 115 Volts | Lamp 6.5 Volts | 2.75 Amps
Approx. total weight: 2.75 kg
Approx. microscope height (as shown): 37 cm
Approx. base diameter: 10 cm
Approx. transformer: 12 × 24 cm
Condition
Very good vintage condition with normal signs of age and laboratory use. The original finish, metalwork and optics are well preserved, and the lens remains clear. The transformer retains its original identification plate and decorative ventilated housing.
The electrical condition is unknown and untested.
The seller is not qualified to test or assess vintage electrical equipment. The cloth-insulated wiring shows age-related wear and fraying near the housing. The set is therefore offered strictly as a collectible/display item and is sold as-is.
Any future use should only follow inspection, rewiring or conversion by a qualified professional.
Please study the photographs carefully, as they form an integral part of the description.
Seller's Story
We are a passionate team of skilled collectors dedicated to sourcing truly unique and rare vintage pieces. On Catawiki, we showcase only our finest finds. Carefully curated, lovingly selected, and offered with the lowest possible shipping rates as a service to our buyers.
Every item is professionally packed the very next day and shipped via registered mail for a safe and reliable delivery.
If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us. We are always happy to help.
Details
Era
1900-2000
Weight
2.75 kg
Number of objects
1
Manufacturer/brand
Bausch & Lomb
Model/type number
Illuminator
Country of origin
United States
Style
Industrial
Physical condition
Good
Functional condition
Not tested
Height
37 cm
Width
10 cm
Depth
10 cm
Estimated period
1930-1940
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