Description
A charming pair of antique opera glasses marked LE SPORTING CLUB – PARIS around the eyepieces, accompanied by a blue velvet-covered carrying case.
The glasses have a traditional central focusing wheel, metal fittings and dark textured barrel coverings. The metalwork has developed an attractive aged patina, with general surface wear consistent with age. The case has a decorative blue velvet exterior, braided handle and metal clasp.
Condition: Antique, pre-owned condition. The optics are intact and clean, and the glasses achieve clear images. There is visible wear, tarnishing and surface marking to the binoculars. The velvet case shows wear, particularly around the edges and opening. Please examine the photographs carefully, as they form part of the description.
Approximate date: Late 19th to early 20th century.
A decorative and collectible example of traditional opera glasses, suitable for display or an antique optics collection.
- Objective lens diameter: 30mm
- Eyepiece diameter: 18mm
- Size: 105mm (W) x 65mm (H) x 42mm (D)
- Weight: 276 g
Note: Case and provenance –
The opera glasses are marked “LE SPORTING CLUB – PARIS” on the eyepieces, indicating a French retail or trade connection.
The accompanying blue velvet-covered case bears an attractive gilt inscription for H. Cerf, Ingénieur Opticien de Sa Majesté le Roi des Belges, 59 Rue de la Madeleine, Bruxelles. This identifies a Brussels optician and suggests that the case was supplied or retailed through H. Cerf.
The glasses and case therefore carry different trade markings. It is not known whether the case was originally supplied with this particular pair, but it is a suitable period-style accompaniment. The case shows age-related wear, particularly around the opening and lining, as illustrated in the photographs.
