A sample cell filling device for filling a sample cell to be used remotely from a polarimeter is provided. The filling device includes a liquid-sealed housing, light source and a diffuser viewing screen. The housing has a recess for receiving the sample cell, the sample cell having first and second optical windows at the respective ends. A light source transmits light from one optical window to the other optical window. A diffuser viewing screen receives light exiting from the sample cell such that light from the viewing screen can be observed by a user to determine the quality of the sample fill.