Original British WWI MkV. SPL. Officers Leather Covered Binoculars with Leather Case Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice pair of British WWI Officers Field glasses, complete with their original brown leather case. During WWI, there were definitely supply issues with regards to optics, as the U.K. had long imported quality optics from Germany. With the outbreak of war, that was definitely no longer possible. Many sets of field glasses were then purchased in France, though this set seems to be original Manufacture.

The glasses are the standard MkV version used in WWI, and feature extendable sunshields, and the barrels are covered with brown leather. Extending the barrels shows markings on the inner sleeves, with a British Broad Arrow over H* on the left side, and MkV SPL over serial number 70599 on the right. These are probably a special order, which is what the “SPL” abbreviation stands for. There is also the marking M G on the eyepiece cross support. Checking with a magnet indicates that these binoculars are entirely non-magnetic, and look to be made entirely from brass.

The binoculars show a good image, with clear optics, and the focus / magnification control is fully functional. The binoculars also still retain there original neck strap, which is in good shape.

The included case is made from brown leather, and has a British Broad Arrow marking on the bottom front. The interior is lined with paper as well as black velvet. There is also a name written on the bottom under the shoulder strap, but we cannot read it. The shoulder strap itself is a bit short, so it may have been reduced in length at some point. It is however in good condition, with an intact working buckle.

A very nice set of British WWI Field Glasses, ready to display or use!