TIYODA PORTABLE COMPOUND MICROSCOPE

C. after 1962

UNSIGNED (except on objective and eyepiece)

SERIAL NUMBER: none

DESCRIPTION

HISTORY

DESCRIPTION:

 

This is a McArthur type portable inverted microscope made by Tiyoda of Japan sometime after 1962. It has no markings except for an '83' stamped on the inside of the lid and markings on the eyepiece and objective. The lid is hinged and permanently attached. The eyepiece is signed 'H10' and 'Tiyoda, Tokyo' in the Tiyoda logo. The 10X objective has the same logo, and the number 'P206 155' as well as the labelling '10, 0.25.' I have obtained another compatable 20X objective signed: 'Tiyoda, Tokyo' with the number '227900' and '20, 0.4.' The drawtube has a stop to prevent pulling it out, but does not lock in place. There is U-shaped double stage clip which is attached to the center of the rear of the stage by push pin. There is an interesting focusing mechanism, in that there is a coarse focus achieved by loosening the knurled screw on the right pillar and then pulling the stage up; once this is locked, fine focus is by the knurled fine focusing screw which rotates horizontally to give the pillar vertical motion. This allows non-parfocal objectives to be used and also allows focus on either side of a slide or other container. It also makes it easier to change objectives. There was a 15X eyepiece offered (H15), and with the higher power objective this would give a maximum power of 350X. Interestingly, when supplied with a 10X objective this microscope was referred to as model 'VI' and with a 20X objective a model "VII." Installed on the bottom is recessed a threaded insert to accept a tripod. The drawtube must be closed and the stage in a low position for the lid to close.

HISTORY OF THE MODEL VI AND VII BY TIYODA: (for history of the original McArthur Microscopes please visit the McArthur Main Page ). Tiyoda is a branch of its mother company, Sakura, dating back to 1871 and even further under another name. The first Japanese-made microscopes were made by this firm. The name was changed in 1962 to Sakura finetechnical, and later Sakura fineteck. The company still produces microscopy products but has, in recent years, specialized in histopathology preparation equipment. This model of microscope was apparently produced in small numbers and is seldom seen on the market. I would be greatful for more information on this instrument or its history.