Description
Carl Zeiss Split Field Microscope Dial Sliding Turrets 4 Objectives 5x 10x 20x
This Carl Zeiss split field comparison microscope is a specialized optical instrument designed to view two separate specimens simultaneously in a single shared field of view. Built in West Germany and bearing the Zeiss model 55 designation, it features dual horizontally-traveling dial sliding turrets, each accepting up to four objectives, enabling side-by-side comparison of samples in the same eyepiece image. Six Zeiss objectives are included — two each of the 5/0.1, 10/0.2, and 20/0.3 magnifications. Eyepieces are not included.
Specifications & What's Included
- Manufacturer: Carl Zeiss, Made in West Germany (model 55)
- Type: Split field comparison microscope
- Head: Binocular, with interpupillary adjustment dial
- Eyepiece tube diameter: 23mm; depth: 28mm (eyepieces not included)
- Dual dial sliding turrets — horizontal travel: 50mm total
- Objectives per turret: 4 positions
- Included objectives (Zeiss): 2× 5/0.1 (8/1.5), 2× 10/0.2 (8/1.5), 2× 20/0.3 (8/1.5)
- Linear stage travel: 25mm
- Lower rear viewing ports: 26mm diameter × approximately 54mm deep
- Body finish: Black enamel on cast metal frame
- Eyepieces: Not included
Applications
Split field comparison microscopes like this Carl Zeiss instrument are used wherever two specimens must be examined side by side under identical optical conditions. They are a standard tool in forensic firearms and toolmark examination, where examiners compare striated or impressed marks on evidence bullets, cartridge cases, and tool surfaces to determine whether two marks share a common origin. The same design is also used in textile analysis, fiber comparison, counterfeit document examination, gemology, and quality control in precision manufacturing. The dual-turret configuration allows both specimens to be independently focused and magnified while remaining in the same split optical field — a fundamental advantage over alternating between two separate microscopes. This Zeiss 55 unit dates from the West German production era, consistent with Zeiss's Oberkochen manufacturing output from the 1960s through the early 1980s, and represents the build quality for which Carl Zeiss instruments of that period are well regarded. Instruments of this type remain in active use in forensic laboratories, academic institutions, and specialized industrial quality control settings.
This Carl Zeiss Split Field Comparison Microscope has been inspected and appears to be in good used condition consistent with its age. The black enamel body shows typical handling wear and light surface scuffing in places. All six Zeiss objectives (two each of 5/0.1, 10/0.2, and 20/0.3) are present and mounted. The dual dial sliding turrets move smoothly and the binocular head is intact. Eyepieces are not included — the eyepiece tubes measure 23mm in diameter by 28mm deep, and the lower rear viewing ports measure approximately 26mm in diameter by 54mm deep. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
Carl Zeiss |
Model: |
Zeiss 55 Split Field Microscope |
MPN: |
55 |
Type: |
Split Field Comparison Microscope |
SKU: |
46541 |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
West Germany |
Form Factor: |
Benchtop |
Seller Notes: |
Includes six Zeiss objectives (two each: 5/0.1, 10/0.2, 20/0.3). No eyepieces included. |
Number of Turrets: |
2 (dual dial sliding turrets) |
Objectives per Turret: |
4 |
Included Objectives: |
2x 5/0.1, 2x 10/0.2, 2x 20/0.3 (Zeiss) |
Objective Magnification: |
5x, 10x, 20x |
Turret Travel: |
50mm horizontal total travel |
Linear Stage Travel: |
25mm |
Eyepiece Tube Diameter: |
23mm |
Eyepiece Tube Depth: |
28mm |
Lower Rear Viewing Port Diameter: |
26mm |
Lower Rear Viewing Port Depth: |
Approximately 54mm |
Eyepieces Included: |
No |
Compatible With: |
Standard 23mm eyepieces |
Application: |
Forensic comparison, quality control, material analysis |
Head Type: |
Binocular |
Illumination: |
Not included / external source required |
Condition Notes: |
This Carl Zeiss Split Field Microscope has been inspected and is in good used condition with age-appropriate wear. All six Zeiss objectives included (5/0.1, 10/0.2, 20/0.3 x2 each). Eyepieces not included. Please contact us with any questions. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |
