Discover some of the extraordinary tools of the trade that transformed the practice of haematology over five centuries.

From Robert Hooke’s famous first description of a magnified cell, to trephines, needles, mouth pipetting and microscopes lit by candlelight – our anniversary stories explore the fascinating history of medicine for our specialty.

Microscopes

Watson microscope 1887
Source: L A Parapia, © BSH

Pins and needles: aspiration and trephine needles through time

Crown trephine 18-19th century
© L A Parapia

Measuring up: the invention of blood analysis

Sahli apparatus
Source: L A Parapia, © BSH