Infinity systems -- a 50 year old child?

Today, there are all to many in microscopy who see "Infinity"-systems as nothing but the "latest and greatest" development to be had.

However, the truth of the matter is that the "Infinity" concept in microscopy is old, quite old.

Certainly, in Metallurgy ar least, the concept was well established in the 1950's (e.g: Leitz Metallux) and by the mid-1980's was well established with the Japanese (e.g: Olympus BH2-M series).

But the best case-in-point is perhaps American Optical who pioneered infinity microscopes in the clinical and educational markets beginning in the mid-1960's -- 50 years ago!. (Their Nosepiece Focusing system, introduced on their Series-10 models, became the forerunner of many of today's systems and its decendents may be found even on the current research models of some of the world's most respected makers!)

The Series-10's were quite popular, largely due to their ease-of-use (nearly "idiot proof"), rugged design, and excellent reliability. Their "infinity" Plan Achromat optics were also quite good. 

So, while the "Infinity" concept itself may not actually be the "latest and greatest," at least it would seem to have a rather long and favorable history!