Immisch Patent Skin Thermometer

An early 20th-century clinical thermometer patented by Moritz Immisch. The thermometer features a silvered case with a white dial displaying temperature scales in both Fahrenheit and Centigrade. A red arrow indicates the average body temperature. The instrument is inscribed with "Immisch's Patent THERMOMETER 11768" and is housed in a velvet and silk-lined Morocco case. Circa 1910

Condition Report:

The thermometer is in good condition, with clear dial markings and a functional mechanism. The Morocco case shows minor wear consistent with age, and the velvet and silk lining remains intact.

Dimensions: Thermometer: Diameter:2.5 cm, Thickness:0.5 cm, Weight:10 grams  Case: Length:5 cm, Width:6 cm, Height:1.1 cm

Original Intended Use:

Designed for medical practitioners, this handheld thermometer utilizes a Bourdon tube mechanism to measure body temperature. Its robust metallic construction offered a durable alternative to the fragile glass mercury thermometers of the era. The compact, watch-shaped design facilitated portability and ease of use in clinical settings.

Style and Design:

The thermometer, which reflects late Victorian and early Edwardian medical instruments, emphasizes functionality and durability. Its dual temperature scales and clear markings exemplify the period's focus on precision in medical diagnostics.

Maker:

Moritz Immisch (1838–1903) was a German-born watchmaker and inventor who settled in London. In 1881, he patented this innovative thermometer, which gained recognition for its accuracy and durability, receiving a Silver Medal at the International Medical Congress of 1881.

Historical Context:

Advancements in medical instruments during the late 19th and early 20th centuries were pivotal in improving diagnostic accuracy. Immisch's thermometer was among the first to employ a metallic mechanism, reducing the risk of breakage associated with glass thermometers and enhancing reliability in medical practice.

Condition Report:

The thermometer is in good condition, with clear dial markings and a functional mechanism. The Morocco case shows minor wear consistent with age, and the velvet and silk lining remains intact.

Dimensions:

Thermometer: Diameter: 2.5 cm, Thickness: 0.5 cm, Weight: 10 grams  Case: Length: 5 cm, Width: 6 cm, Height: 1.1 cm