This year marks a century since the introduction of the first microscope designed by Nikon, the JOICO, in 1925. To celebrate this milestone, Nikon has unveiled a new exhibit at ARTIS-Micropia in Amsterdam, a world-renowned museum dedicated to microbes. This exhibit combines Nikon Small World’s stunning gallery of imagery through the microscope, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary, with a retrospective showcasing Nikon’s 100-year-long contributions to optical technology and microscopy in the fields of life sciences, medicine, and industry.
Nikon Unveils New Museum Exhibit in Amsterdam, Celebrating 100 Years of Innovation in Microscopy
Posted on March 14, 2025
Nikon has long been at the forefront of microscopy, pioneering advancements that have enabled researchers to explore the hidden world of microorganisms. The new ARTIS-Micropia exhibit offers visitors an interactive experience, engaging children and adults in hands-on activities that explore fundamental microscopy principles. The exhibit aims to inspire a new generation of scientists and microscopy enthusiasts by presenting these principles in a tangible, engaging way. Through four dedicated stations, visitors will learn about magnification, resolution, illumination, and lens mechanics – key concepts that form the foundation of microscopy.
Attendees at the opening exhibition at ARTIS-Micropia, enjoying the welcome speeches and interactive content.
In addition to these interactive elements, the exhibit showcases Nikon’s rich history in microscopy by displaying eight carefully curated microscopes from world renowned Nikon collector Uli Koch’s historical collection. These microscopes, presented as art objects, exemplify the evolution of optical technology and Nikon’s impact on scientific discovery.
“Nikon’s legacy in microscopy is built on a century of innovation and dedication to scientific discovery,” said Natalia Alexander, Marketing and Communications Manager at Nikon Europe B.V. “This exhibit honors our 100-year journey while also underscoring our ongoing commitment to advancing optical technology and inspiring worldwide, multi-generational curiosity about the microscopic world.”
Eric Flem, Senior Manager, Communications and CRM at Nikon, added, “With the Nikon Small World competition celebrating its 50th anniversary, it is evident that microscopy continues to captivate and inspire. By bringing this exhibit to ARTIS-Micropia, we hope to make the fascinating world of microbes more accessible globally, sparking excitement and appreciation for the unseen wonders that shape our lives.”
Left to right: Daniel Ciepielewski (General Manager European Strategy – Product – Marketing), Masahiro Horie (Director & President of Nikon Europe B.V.), Natalia Alexander (European Marketing & communications Manager), Huenú Roger (European Marketing Coordinator). Masayuki Numako (Vice President & Head of Healthcare Business Division), Uli Koch (passionate Nikon collector), Wim van Egmond (Nikon Small World winner), and Thomas Swierts (Head of Micropia) at the opening ceremony.
Located in the heart of Amsterdam, ARTIS-Micropia is the world’s first museum dedicated entirely to microbes, offering visitors an unparalleled opportunity to explore the microscopic world. With something for everyone interested in science and nature, ARTIS-Micropia is the ideal venue for Nikon’s latest exhibit, bridging the gap between cutting-edge microscopy and public engagement.
As Nikon looks ahead to the next century of innovation, this exhibit serves as both a reflection on the past and a celebration of the future—continuing to inspire scientific exploration through the power of light and lenses.
The exhibit will run from March 14, 2025 – September 30, 2025. A complete list of Nikon’s active museum exhibits in the United States can be viewed here.
