Evident Expands Life Science Imaging with CrestOptics Acquisition
On October 5, 2026, Evident, a leading provider in advanced imaging solutions, announced that it has officially completed the acquisition of CrestOptics S.p.A., a Rome-based company specializing in the development and manufacturing of cutting-edge optical imaging systems, particularly for Spinning-Disk Confocal Microscopy and Super-Resolution Microscopy. This significant acquisition broadens Evident's life science imaging portfolio and enhances its expertise in rapid, high-throughput 3D imaging applications critical for research, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology.
Founded in 2011, CrestOptics has established a reputation for creating advanced imaging modules designed for integration into the microscopes of top manufacturers around the globe. Their notable products include the X-Light family of spinning-disk confocal systems, known for their precise optical sectioning and uniform illumination across a leading field of view. They also offer the compact CICERO widefield and spinning-disk solution, providing entry-level confocal microscopy to laboratories that need powerful imaging capabilities. Additionally, their DeepSIM module brings sub-diffraction imaging accessibility normally reserved for extensive systems.
CrestOptics' cutting-edge products are employed worldwide in laboratories, designed as universally accessible tools to advance scientific progress without barriers. “Researchers are asking increasingly complex questions about biological models, necessitating faster, gentler, and higher-resolution imaging,” stated Wes Pringle, CEO of Evident. He emphasized the importance of continuing to push the boundaries of imaging technology to support the evolving needs of scientists.
Even before the formal acquisition, Evident and CrestOptics had established a productive partnership, with CrestOptics' spinning-disk technology already integrated into Evident's microscope configurations. This acquisition highlights and solidifies the existing collaboration, allowing the two companies to deepen their joint mission to accelerate microscopic research and innovation.
“Joining Evident is a logical next step for CrestOptics,” explained Renato Giacobbo Scavo, CEO of CrestOptics. “We share a commitment to advancing microscope capabilities. With Evident’s global reach, manufacturing expertise, and application knowledge, we can fast-track our innovation strategy and extend our technologies to more laboratories across the world.”
CrestOptics will continue to operate from its headquarters in Rome, maintaining its existing partner and distribution relationships, ensuring it remains a pivotal technology provider in the microscopy sector.
Background on Evident
Evident's legacy in optical precision for microscopy dates back over a century to Olympus, a company renowned for its advanced imaging solutions. Today, Evident inherits this tradition, helping scientists, medical professionals, and engineers visualize the invisible through state-of-the-art imaging technologies that blend world-class optics with digital innovation.
Evident’s life science offerings range from brightfield and darkfield microscopy to advanced fluorescence, 4D analysis, and digital pathology. In the industrial microscopy sector, the company provides laser scanning, digital, and semiconductor systems for inspection, quality assurance, and manufacturing analysis. With its headquarters in Tokyo, Evident boasts R&D and production centers in Japan, the United States, Germany, and China, alongside a global network of distribution and service facilities. For more information, visit
EvidentScientific.com.
About CrestOptics
Established in 2011 in Rome, CrestOptics designs and manufactures advanced optical imaging systems for life science research. Its technologies, including Spinning-Disk Confocal and Super-Resolution SIM, facilitate rapid, high-contrast imaging with reduced phototoxicity, enabling research with living cells, 3D models, and thick tissues that were previously challenging with conventional methods.
CrestOptics offers an array of products such as the X-Light family of spinning-disk systems, the CICERO integrated confocal solution, and the DeepSIM super-resolution module—each designed for comprehensive compatibility with leading microscope platforms. The company also develops custom optical solutions for OEMs across various sectors, including research, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and industry, all from its ISO 9001-certified facility in Rome, where it collaborates with research institutions like the Italian Institute of Technology. For additional details, visit
CrestOptics.com.