Original Items: One of a Kind. This is a very nice set of Early style British WWI Feldstecher (Field Glass) Binoculars, made by the legendary optical company Carl Zeiss of Jena, Germany. British forces had long imported quality optics from Germany, so at the start of WWI, many officers were equipped with this type of binocular. They complete with their original brown leather carry case with burgundy velvet lining. The back of the barrels are marked with the maker information:
CARL ZEISS
JENA
FELDSTECHER
8 FACH
The case and binoculars are in very good condition, especially given that these items are a century old. The finish on the case is mostly present, with some splitting on the corners. The shoulder strap is unfortunately missing from the case, and the lid handle is torn. However the top is embossed nicely with S. R. McS., the initials of the soldier who owned them. The leather has shrunk a bit, and the closure strap is in delicate condition.
The field glasses are fully functional, and have resin/bakelite eyepieces that have no chipping or cracks. Optics are mostly clear, with a bit of dust from the years, and could use a cleaning. No cracks or chips, and the focus diopter controls work smoothly, though they are bit stiff. There is some wear the the aluminum and brass fittings, but nothing major. The bottom of the right side was engraved post manufacture with STEWART R. McSHEA, the name of the soldier who owned them. The leather covering on the barrels is intact, though it has shrunk a bit and pulled away from the body.
A great WWI Item, ready to use and display.