Apparatus (Oblivion)

Apparatuses are tools used to create potions. Their quality can vary depending on their level.

Quality Levels
Excluding certain Apprentice-level apparatuses, no higher level apparatuses will be available until you have met the required level. However, you don't have to be, for example, an Expert Alchemist in order to use an Expert Mortar. You can save time and money by getting and using the highest level apparatus available as soon as you find it, rather than trying to build complete sets of all five quality levels.

Novice

 * Quality level 10. Can be found at any level.

Apprentice

 * Quality level 25. Can be found in dungeons beginning at level 5, in stores at level 6.

Journeyman

 * Quality level 50. Can be found in dungeons beginning at level 9, in stores at level 14.

Expert

 * Quality level 75. Can be found in dungeons beginning at level 13, in stores at level 18.

Master

 * Quality level 100. Can be found in dungeons beginning at level 17. Master-level apparatuses cannot be found in stores.

Mortar and Pestle
The only item required for creating potions via Alchemy. Advance in the Mage's Guild quest track until you are sent to kill Mannimarco. Go through the killing of Mannimarco and then search the entire area that was surrounded by bone wall. In a chest you will find a Master Mortar and Pestle.
 * Can find many in every Mages Guild
 * Fort Sejanus and Fathis Aren's Tower each have one guaranteed Apprentice Mortar and Pestle.

Retort
An optional Alchemy component. Retorts increase the magnitude and duration of positive effects.
 * Cloud Ruler Temple, Fort Rayles, and Fathis Aren's Tower each have one guaranteed Apprentice Retort.

Calcinator
An optional Alchemy component. Calcinators increase the magnitude and duration of all effects, both positive and negative.
 * Cloud Ruler Temple and Fathis Aren's Tower each have one guaranteed Apprentice Calcinator.

Alembic
An optional Alchemy component. Alembics reduce the magnitude and duration of negative effects in potions (but not poisons).
 * Fort Cuptor, Fort Roebeck, Chorrol Castle and Fathis Aren's Tower each have one guaranteed Apprentice Alembic.