Description
An unusual pair of antique folding pocket binoculars / opera glasses, believed to date from approximately c.1900–1920.
These are an ingenious early compact design in which the binocular mechanism is incorporated directly into its leather-covered folding case. When closed, the glasses form a remarkably slim and portable package suitable for carrying in a pocket or bag.
The binoculars feature a black-finished metal optical body with small brass-edged eyepieces, larger objective lenses and a central focusing wheel which is accessed through the leather outer covering.
The exact maker has not been identified and no clearly readable manufacturer’s mark has been found. Based on their design and construction, they are believed to be of European manufacture, probably dating from the early 20th century.
Optical condition:
The optics are intact and clean and the binoculars remain usable.
The central focusing mechanism works and the lenses are in particularly good condition considering the age of the instrument.
External condition:
The original leather covering is in heavily worn antique condition.
There is extensive age-related deterioration to the leather, including surface wear, cracking, losses, splits and missing sections around the edges and upper portion of the case. The leather around the focusing-wheel opening is also torn and worn.
There is general age-related wear and patination to the metal fittings and binocular body.
Despite the deterioration to the outer leather, the optical components themselves have survived well and remain intact and clean.
Please examine all photographs carefully, as they show the condition and form an important part of the description.
An interesting and relatively unusual example of an early folding pocket binocular / theatre glass design, suitable for a collector of antique binoculars, optical instruments, opera glasses or early portable technology.
Approximate date: c.1900–1920
Origin: Probably European
Maker: Unidentified
Objective lens diameter: 28mm
Overall size when closed: 120mm (W) x 85mm (H) x 15mm (D)
