A measuring apparatus for measuring color characteristics of an object is provided. The apparatus includes at least two measuring units, each of which has at least one optical emitter and at least one optical receiver, wherein the measuring units are combined to form a measuring arrangement. The emitter has an illuminating angle and the receiver has a receiving angle, wherein relative to the object these angles are different for each measuring unit. Respective light guide terminals are provided for each measuring unit. A light source is connectable in common for at least two measuring units via a light guide and a light guide terminal. A detector is connectable in common for at least two measuring units via another light guide and light guide terminal. The light guide terminals can be selectively coupled with the light source and the detector.