Photograph a scale, trade label, mechanism or signature. VernierScope analyses your images against a curated database of historical instruments to return a precise identification — maker, type, period and country of origin.
1 free identification — included with every account
Identify · Authenticate · Catalogue
Method
The same details a trained instrument historian would examine — evaluated in seconds.
Photograph
Capture the maker's signature, trade label, scale graduations and instrument form. For small instruments, a close-up of the signed plate is essential.
Visual comparison
Your image is matched against a curated corpus of instrument references from specialist publications, auction catalogues and museum collections spanning four centuries.
Feature analysis
Key identifying characteristics are scored: instrument type, maker's signature style, trade label format, construction materials, scale layout and period indicators.
Identification
A ranked list of probable matches is returned with maker, instrument type, date range, country of origin, and the features that led to the identification.
Coverage
"From Dollond refractors to early electrical apparatus — maker's signatures, trade labels and construction methods, identified from a single photograph."
Reference material is sourced from specialist instrument publications, major auction house records and museum collections. Coverage spans from 17th-century mathematical instruments through the early 20th century — the golden age of scientific instrument making.
Pricing
Start with a free identification. Pay only when you need more.
VernierScope is currently in pilot — coverage and accuracy are actively expanding. Pilot pricing reflects this early stage.
Professional
per month · billed annually
Every new account includes 1 free identification — no credit card required.
FAQ
VernierScope covers antique scientific and mathematical instruments from approximately 1600 to 1920 — including telescopes, microscopes, sextants, theodolites, barometers, compasses, surveying equipment and medical instruments.
VernierScope uses AI trained on thousands of instrument references from specialist publications and auction records. Accuracy is highest for signed pieces by major English and Continental makers. Unsigned instruments are attributed on stylistic grounds.
Yes — VernierScope analyses construction methods, material choices, scale layout and stylistic details to attribute unsigned pieces to likely makers, regions or periods.
Photograph the signed plate or trade label in sharp focus, alongside an overall view of the instrument. Include detail shots of any engraving, graduation style or distinctive features.
Yes — every new account includes one free identification. No credit card required to get started.
Ready
Upload a photograph and let four centuries of scientific inquiry work for you.
Open VernierScope