Antique Schmidt & Haensch Large Polarimeter. Germany, 1885

Antique big-sized Schmidt & Haensch polarimeter made in Germany in 1885 and in good working order. This instrument was used to measure the angle of rotation caused by passing polarized light through an optically active substance. The substance is contained in a glass tube that must be inserted in the center of the instrument. The angle of the light will be reflected by the circular scale inside the eyepiece. The polarimeter is mounted on a sturdy tripod with iron legs and brass central rod. The instrument is composed of a hollow iron pile with a small door, an eyepiece and several brass component parts. Under the eyepiece we can see the polarimeters serial number engraved by hand in the metal, in an elegant cursive lettering: Nº 11226. Over the eyepiece we can see a viewer with its own serial: Nº 121323. Also, engraved in the polarimeters base (just in the place where the instrument connects the tripod) we can see the manufacturers name, Franz Schmidt & Haensch, and the inscription Berlin Nº 2093. So impressive and in good condition, this antique big-sized Schmidt & Haensch polarimeter is an exclusive piece worthy to belong to a science museum. Measurements: Bases Width: 10 in/ 25 cm. Top Width: 28.4 in / 71 cm. Height: 14.8 in / 37 cm.