Who Owns Leica Microsystems?

Leica Microsystems traces its origins to 1869 when Ernst Leitz I founded the Optical Institute in Wetzlar, Germany. The company was established to manufacture microscopes and optical instruments for scientific research, building on the optical expertise that had been developing in the Wetzlar region since the early 19th century.

Ernst Leitz II, who took over leadership in 1888, transformed the company into one of the world's leading optical instrument manufacturers. Under his leadership, the company developed innovative microscope designs and expanded its product range to include photographic lenses and other optical instruments. The Leitz name became synonymous with precision optics and scientific excellence.

In the early 20th century, the company's optical expertise led to the development of the Leica camera (the name derived from Leitz Camera), which became one of the most influential cameras in photographic history. The Leica M-series cameras, introduced in 1954, became iconic tools for photojournalists and documentary photographers. However, the camera business eventually separated from the microscopy business, with Leica Camera AG and Leica Microsystems becoming distinct companies.

Leica Microsystems focused on advancing microscopy technology throughout the 20th century, developing innovations including fluorescence microscopy, confocal microscopy, and digital imaging systems. The company's microscopes became essential tools in biological research, medical diagnostics, materials science, and industrial quality control.

In 1986, the microscopy division was reorganized and the Leica Microsystems brand was established as a distinct entity. The company continued to develop cutting-edge microscopy systems, including the first confocal laser scanning microscope and advanced digital imaging platforms.

Danaher Corporation acquired Leica Microsystems in 2005 for approximately $800 million, integrating it into its life sciences portfolio alongside other scientific instrument companies. Under Danaher's ownership and its Danaher Business System (DBS) operational framework, Leica Microsystems has continued to innovate, developing advanced systems for super-resolution microscopy, digital pathology, and automated imaging for research and clinical diagnostics.