German, c.1960, Zeiss, including main stag/stand, 2 Tessovar heads, lamps and other attachments

The Carl Zeiss Tessovar is a microscope for photomacrography and macro photography. Its accuracy and flexibility made it invaluable in research, especially in the natural and biomedical sciences.

Introduced in the 1960s and 1970s, the Tessovar was designed with two key purposes in mind in West Germany. By the 1980s, a four-objective turret version was developed, expanding its magnification capabilities. Though rare on the second-hand market, it remains highly sought after.

Although it resembles a stereo microscope, the Tessovar is actually a parfocal zoom lens optimized for macro photography. It provides a magnification range of 0.4x to 12.8x when using 35 mm film. A four-position nosepiece allows smooth zoom adjustments with auxiliary lenses (0.25x, 0.5x, and 2x).

Made from sturdy metal, the Tessovar weighs 1.8 kg, offering stability. It features dual zoom control knobs and an aperture ring that ensures consistent exposure—a significant advantage before the digital era. Its compatibility with Zeiss microscope accessories further enhances its versatility.

Practical Uses:

• Scientific Research: High-resolution imaging supports taxonomy, morphology, and biological studies.
• Forensic Analysis: Captures minute details crucial for investigations.
• Industrial Inspection: Helps detect defects in small components during quality control.
• Education: A valuable tool for studying entomology, botany, and microscopy.

NOTE: WE CAN NOT SHIP THIS ITEM IN-HOUSE, PLEASE ARRANGE YOUR OWN SHIPPING OR COLLECTION