Abstract: An apparatus and method is provided for generating a 360.degree. view of a surface area of a three-dimensional object, such as a wire or cable, and for inspecting the surface area for flaws or imperfections. A receiving lens defines an optical axis extending through the object, and an origin located on the optical axis within the object and spaced a predetermined distance from the receiving lens, for generating a direct image of a front surface section of the object. A first mirror is spaced a first predetermined distance from the origin on another side of the object relative to the receiving lens for generating a first mirror image of a first rear surface section of the object. A second mirror is spaced a second predetermined distance from the origin on another side of the object relative to the receiving lens, and on another side of the optical axis relative to the first mirror, for generating a second mirror image of a second rear surface section of the object.