Christian first encountered Nikon systems during his doctoral work in 2016, using an ECLIPSE C2 confocal system that had already been in service for many years. Despite its age, the system quickly proved itself reliable.  “At that time, I worked with a C2 system that still ran on what, from today’s perspective, is almost ancient EZ‑C1 software,” he recalls. “Over the years, the system was gradually modernized, received NIS‑Elements and some new hardware components, and like that it is actually still running today and being used daily at Osnabrück University. Every single paper from my time in Osnabrück (the most recent published only in 2025) features C2 scanning confocal data recorded with that device.”

His experience revealed that while software evolves, a well‑engineered optical system can remain scientifically productive for far longer than expected. “We upgraded to NIS‑Elements, and from that point on I grew to appreciate the system more and more. Nikon’s acquisition and analysis software is the main reason why I ultimately preferred Nikon systems over others at the time and still do today.”

For Christian, durability and sustainability are inseparable. “Product longevity and upgradability play an extremely important role. This is especially true in the public sector, where taxpayer money is involved and responsible spending is essential.”

He sees longevity not just as a budget consideration, but as an indicator of craftsmanship: “Longevity is a strong indicator of overall product quality, since poorly made products typically have a short lifespan.”

Nikon’s modular architecture plays a major role in that sustainability. “New imaging modalities, software features, or hardware components can often be integrated without replacing the entire system. Such flexibility is crucial in a research environment where scientific questions and methodological requirements change over time.”

A standout example of longevity enabling discovery comes from cardiovascular imaging work conducted at the imaging facility at LIV. Standard confocal methods created stitching artifacts that compromised quantitative accuracy. The solution was an unconventional pairing: a C2+ scan head with an AZ100 multizoom microscope.

At LIV, older Nikon systems continue to withstand heavy daily use, building relocations, and diverse experimental demands. “Nikon products are well suited for long‑term use… known for their robust design and high manufacturing quality, which ensures consistent performance even under intensive daily use,” Christian says.

He highlights the long-term security this provides: “Knowing that maintenance and support will remain accessible over the lifespan of the equipment gives us confidence that the instruments will remain fully operational and scientifically competitive for many years.”