Keeler Wide Angle Ophthalmoscope 1933
The Keeler Wide Angle Ophthalmoscope is a landmark instrument in British ophthalmic history. According to the Keeler website, Charles H. Keeler launched the Wide Angle Ophthalmoscope in 1933. This example is a fine and complete survivor of that first generation of Keeler electric ophthalmoscopes.
Charles H. Keeler and the Company
Charles H. Keeler founded his optical business at 47 Wigmore Street, London W.1. The underside of the box is labeled in gold print: “C. Davis Keeler, 47 Wigmore Street, W.1., Made in England.” The Wigmore Street address places this instrument firmly within the distinguished tradition of London’s premier optical and medical instrument quarter. Browse our full ophthalmoscope collection.
Design and Specifications
This model comes in its original leatherette box with a spare bulb. The handle opens to contain two “D” size batteries for power. It is signed London W.1. and labeled WIDE ANGLE on the front. The back carries the model number K1229. Power range choices run from -20 diopters to +20 diopters — an impressively wide range for 1933.
Factory Image
A woodcutting image of the Keeler factory from the Keeler USA website is included among the product images — a charming period document that places this instrument in its original manufacturing context.
Condition and Collectibility
The instrument is in good condition for its age of over 90 years. The leatherette case, spare bulb slot, and battery handle are all intact. Early Keeler ophthalmoscopes from the 1930s are increasingly rare and highly sought after by collectors of British ophthalmic instruments. This example — with its original box, Wigmore Street labeling, and documented model number — is a particularly well-documented piece of Keeler history.
Learn about the history of Keeler Instruments.
