Original German WWII Fernglas 08 Field Glasses by Ernst Leitz with Neck Strap, Eyepiece Cover & Case Original Items

Original Item: Only One Available. This is a very nice set of Imperial German WWI Fernglas 08 (Remote Glass 08) or Field Glasses model 1908. These were one of the most used German issued binoculars of WWI. This example is fully functional, with mostly clear optics, and working adjustments. It is nicely marked as follows on the central hinge tension wheel with the maker and serial number:

Fernglas 08
40737
E. Leitz Wetzlar

Ernst Leitz GmbH of Wetzlar Germany is a storied producer of optical devices such as telescopes, microscopes, binoculars, and cameras. It exists today as the four different branches of the LEICA company, named for the first three letters of Leitz and the first two of Camera. 

The field glasses are also marked IX.16 on one of the support arms, which may be a unit marking. Both diopter adjustments work correctly, though the optics could use some light cleaning. The bakelite eye cups are in excellent condition, with no chips or cracks. There is a nice leather neck strap installed, which has a very nice eyepiece cover attached to it. The neck strap is in very good shape, with the expected wear from age.

The included case is made of woven plant fibers, most likely jute or “papercloth”, with leather and steel fittings. The leather hinge has unfortunately broken, but both leather retaining straps on the side are still in good shape. There are also still the leather covers for the sun filters mounted on the lid, though the sun filters are gone. The shoulder strap is unfortunately missing.

Overall a very nice example of the classic eye piece for German infantry officers during WWI!