Optical instruments gallery

 Using a focimeter

In the Optical Instruments Gallery we explore a range of sight testing devices and associated equipment used by the optometrist in a practice setting or in the research laboratory. There are instruments for refraction, surface examination of the eye and internal illumination. There are instruments for checking your existing spectacles or lenses and even some quite sophisticated chairs! 

This section of the MusEYEum website is particularly important because many historic instruments are too large to display in our small exhibition rooms. We can still 'collect' them, however, by taking photographs, collecting instruction manuals or preserving the trade catalogues issued by the manufacturers. The museum can often identify mysterious pieces of equipment found by the public. 

Note that the article 'A Brief History of Vision' has now moved to our Eye and Vision Gallery where you can find out about the most sophisticated optical instrument of all...the human eye itself.

  1. Take a seat

    Take a seat

    First the patient needs somewhere to sit.

  2. Focimeters

    Focimeters

    We check the power of their existing spectacles.

  3. Test charts

    Test charts

    Look for the letters!

  4. Retinoscopes

    Retinoscopes

    We measure rays of light as they are reflected by the retina.

  5. Ophthalmoscopes

    Ophthalmoscopes

    The principal diagnostic test, examining the eye for disease.

  6. Perimeters

    Perimeters

    Assessing the visual field.

  7. Keratometers

    Keratometers

    Mapping the surface of the eye.

  8. Slit lamps

    Slit lamps

    For examining the cornea and the interior of the eye.

  9. Tonometers

    Tonometers

    Measuring the intraocular pressure.

  10. Duochrome tests

    Duochrome tests

    Used in conjunction with the crossed cylinder.