Secondhand Riken Agent Monitor

Objective AI Report

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Report date: 09.02.2026

RIKEN Gas Indicator Type 18 Analysis Report

Device Identification

The examined visuals belong to a portable, analog, and optical-based gas measuring device. The device is displayed as a complete system, including a heavy-duty leather carrying case, a manual pump (aspirator bulb) used for air suction, and a shoulder strap. The product’s design language, the materials used (leather, cast metal body, chain-attached covers), and its labeling indicate that it is a vintage measuring instrument intended for industrial safety purposes.

Brand and Model

As a result of a detailed examination of the metal label on the device shown in the visuals, the brand and model information has been clearly identified. The inscriptions on the metal plate in the fifth visual were used as reference.

• Brand: RIKEN (Manufacturer: RIKEN KEIKI FINE INSTRUMENT CO., LTD.)
• Model: GAS INDICATOR Type 18
• Origin: MADE IN JAPAN (Japan)

The patent information on the product (USA, England, West Germany, Belgium, Canada) confirms that the brand is an established manufacturer with international standards.

Originality and General Condition

Based on visual evidence, the device consists entirely of original parts. The metal information plate on the device, its riveted assembly, the embossed logo on the leather case, and typical industrial Japanese craftsmanship support its originality. No subsequently added or fabricated parts have been observed.

Areas of Use

The RIKEN Gas Indicator Type 18 is a device primarily used in mining, tunnel construction, tankers, manholes, and industrial facilities to measure the concentration of gases (typically methane or flammable gases) in the environment. Operating on the principle of interferometry (light refraction), this device is designed to ensure the safety of personnel working in hazardous environments.

Quantity Information

The visuals show 1 (one) complete product set. The contents of the set include:

• 1 Main Measuring Device
• 1 Original Leather Carrying Case (with strap)
• 1 Aspirator Assembly (Air pump and hose setup)

Physical Deformation and Cosmetic Condition

The product is a used device and shows expected signs of wear commensurate with its age:

• Device Body: The black “crinkle” paint on the metal body is generally well-preserved, but there are paint abrasions on the edges and corners. No cracks or fractures have been detected.
• Leather Case: The leather case maintains its integrity, but surface abrasions, color fading, and signs of use are noticeable. The stitching and rivets appear solid. The carrying strap shows wear due to friction.
• Metal Parts: Slight dulling and signs of oxidation due to age may be visible on the chrome/nickel-plated caps, buttons, and chains, but there is no deep corrosion apparent in the visuals.

Mechanical and Accessories Examination

The mechanical parts and accessories of the device have been analyzed as follows:

• Aspirator Pump (Bulb): The black rubber pump located on the left side is connected to the device with its hose. While the visual does not allow for determining if the rubber material has lost its flexibility, it appears physically intact and in one piece.
• Adjustment Knobs: The vernier (fine adjustment) knob and protective screw cap are present on the upper part. The chain-attached caps are designed to prevent loss and are in place.
• Optical Reader (Viewing Port): The viewfinder aperture located on the top of the device is intact.

Label Information and Technical Instructions

On the metal plate on the side of the device, the following instructions are clearly legible under the heading “HOW TO USE”:

• Check Daily on Surface in Fresh Air: Steps such as checking if the “Vernier” knob is set to zero and cleaning the gas chamber by operating the aspirator at least five times are described.
• Test for Gas: Procedures to be followed during a gas test (resetting the adjustment knob, using the aspirator, and reading on the scale) are listed in bullet points.
• On the upper label, the inscription “ASPIRATOR” is located next to the hose inlet.

Mechanical Components

The outer casing of the device features movable parts (adjustment screw, key mechanism). The knobs appear to be in place. The chains of the protective covers are not broken, and their attachment points are solid.

Estimated Year of Manufacture

Considering the product’s design, metal label style, typeface used, and the “West Germany” patent attribution, this device is estimated to have been manufactured between the 1950s and the late 1980s (the “West Germany” indication points to pre-1990).

Potential Failure Risk and Assessment

As a result of visual inspection, no critical damage (body fracture, missing main component) was observed on the device. However, materials such as the rubber hose and pump may harden and crack over time, potentially requiring maintenance for sealing integrity. Since the device operates on sensitive optical and chemical principles, its calibration status cannot be determined from visuals. It is an industrial antique with high collector’s value, excellent visual condition, and complete parts.