As light bulbs and batteries got smaller, and new materials, such as Bakelite, plastic, and lighter metals were discovered the otoscope became smaller and easier to use. An all in one tool for examining the ears and the throat was available to physicians in the 1930s, and by the 1960s, became the instrument known today.

The combination otoscope and ophthalmoscope in the image is from the 50s or the 60s. Batteries are stored in the handle and illuminates both an otoscope head and an ophthalmoscope head. Three cone speculum, in plastic, are included. There are also extra bulbs in the case. The ophthalmoscope is used to examine the eye and has a similar fascinating history.