Let’s Dive into Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12
In the world of laboratory equipment, precision and reliability are paramount. That’s why I was immediately drawn to the Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12. These aren’t just your average pieces of glassware; they are designed for returning condensation to beakers, ensuring accurate and efficient experiments. Crafted from annealed glass with fire-polished edges, they promise both durability and safety.
My need for these arose from a persistent issue in my field lab. Condensation escaping during extended heating processes was impacting the consistency of my results. I required a reliable solution to recapture that moisture and maintain the integrity of my experiments.
Upon unboxing the pack of twelve, I was struck by their uniform clarity and the smooth, rounded edges. They felt sturdy, despite being made of glass. The size, at 180mm (approximately 7 inches) in diameter, seemed ideal for fitting over a range of beaker sizes commonly used in the field.
I initially considered standard Pyrex watch glasses and some lesser-known brands offering similar products. However, the Walter Stern name, known for quality laboratory supplies, and the favorable reviews I found online, swayed my decision. This seemed a more robust and reliable option.
My first impression was one of quiet confidence. These weren’t flashy, but they radiated an air of professional quality and purpose. I was eager to get them into action and see if they lived up to expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial test involved a series of controlled evaporation experiments in my mobile lab. The Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 were placed atop various beakers containing different solutions, all undergoing gentle heating on portable hotplates. I operated the hotplates from a small generator power source.
The conditions were fairly standard – a temperature-controlled environment within the mobile lab, but with varying humidity levels due to recent rainfall outside. The watch glasses performed admirably, effectively trapping condensation and returning it to the beakers. The curvature of the glass seemed optimal for directing the droplets back into the vessel.
Use was straightforward. Simply placing the watch glass over the beaker was all that was required. No special setup or adjustments were needed.
One minor surprise was how effectively the watch glasses prevented splattering. They not only returned condensation but also acted as a shield against minor spills during more vigorous boiling.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of consistent use, the Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 have proven to be a reliable addition to my equipment. Despite regular handling and cleaning, there are no signs of significant wear and tear. The glass remains clear, and the edges are still smooth.
Durability has been excellent. Despite a few accidental bumps and scrapes during transport, none of the glasses have chipped or cracked. The annealed glass seems to be more resilient than I initially anticipated.
Cleaning is easy. A simple wash with laboratory detergent and water is sufficient to remove any residue. The fire-polished edges prevent dirt and grime from accumulating in hard-to-reach places.
Compared to my previous experience with cheaper, thinner watch glasses, the Walter Stern models are a clear step up in terms of durability and performance. They consistently outperform the less expensive alternatives.
Breaking Down the Features of Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12
Specifications
Material: The Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 are constructed from soda-lime glass, which offers a good balance of chemical resistance and thermal stability. This material is commonly used in laboratory glassware for general applications.
Diameter: Each watch glass measures 180 mm (approximately 7 inches) in diameter. This size is versatile enough to cover a variety of standard beaker sizes.
Edge Treatment: The edges are fire-polished, resulting in a smooth, rounded finish. This reduces the risk of chipping and makes handling safer.
Shape: They feature a shallow, concave form. The concave shape effectively captures and returns condensation to the beaker.
Quantity: The product comes in a pack of 12. This provides an ample supply for multiple experiments or replacements.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the functionality and longevity of the product. The material ensures that the watch glasses can withstand typical laboratory conditions. The size provides appropriate coverage for beakers. The polished edges reduce the chance of breakage.
Performance & Functionality
The Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 perform their primary function – returning condensation to beakers – effectively. The concave shape promotes the collection of moisture and directs it back into the vessel.
Their strengths lie in their simplicity and reliability. There’s no complicated setup or maintenance required. The watch glasses simply do what they’re designed to do, consistently and without fuss.
If there’s any room for improvement, it would be in offering different sizes. While the 180mm diameter is suitable for many beakers, smaller or larger options would increase versatility.
These watch glasses meet my expectations and slightly exceed them by also serving as a barrier against splashing.
Design & Ergonomics
The Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 feature a classic, functional design. The clear glass allows for easy observation of the contents of the beaker.
The smooth, fire-polished edges enhance user comfort and minimize the risk of injury. The weight is light enough for easy handling, yet substantial enough to provide stability.
There’s virtually no learning curve. Their use is intuitive and requires no prior experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Given their construction from annealed soda-lime glass, these watch glasses are expected to last for a considerable period with proper care. They should withstand regular use and cleaning without significant degradation.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wash with soap and water is sufficient to keep them clean and functional. Avoid exposing them to extreme temperature changes, which could cause cracking.
Accessories and Customization Options
No accessories are included with the Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12. As a basic piece of laboratory equipment, they are not designed for customization.
They are compatible with virtually any standard beaker or laboratory vessel of appropriate size. They will work with a variety of heating mantles and hotplates.
Pros and Cons of Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12
Pros
- Reliable condensation return. The concave shape is optimally designed.
- Durable construction. The annealed glass withstands regular use.
- Easy to clean and maintain. Simple soap and water is all that’s needed.
- Safe to handle. The fire-polished edges minimize the risk of cuts or scratches.
- Versatile size. The 180mm diameter fits a variety of beakers.
Cons
- Limited size options. Only one diameter is available.
- Glass construction. While durable, glass can still break if mishandled.
Who Should Buy Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12?
These watch glasses are perfect for: laboratory technicians, researchers, chemistry students, and anyone performing experiments that require controlled evaporation or the recapture of condensation. They are ideal for academic, industrial, and field laboratory settings.
Those who should skip this product: individuals needing specialized or high-temperature resistant glassware. Those working with extremely corrosive substances might also require alternative materials.
A must-have accessory: a good pair of laboratory gloves for safe handling.
Conclusion on Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12
The Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 are a reliable and practical addition to any laboratory setup. Their simple yet effective design, durable construction, and ease of use make them a worthwhile investment.
The price of $205.99 for a pack of 12 is justified, considering the quality and longevity of the product. While cheaper alternatives exist, the Walter Stern name guarantees a certain level of performance and reliability.
I would personally recommend these watch glasses to anyone seeking a dependable solution for condensation management in the lab.
If you value accuracy, efficiency, and durability in your laboratory equipment, then the Walter Stern Shallow Form Watch Glasses 110-112, Pack of 12 are an excellent choice. Invest in quality and ensure the integrity of your experiments.