Description
Antique German Busch “Sollux” prism binoculars, retailed in Britain by Aitchison & Co., London & Leeds.
The binoculars are marked on the left prism plate:
AITCHISON & CO.
BUSCH
PRISMA-BINOCLE
and on the right prism plate:
London & Leeds
MOD
SOLLUX
These markings indicate that the binoculars were sold through Aitchison & Co. in Britain, while the Sollux model was made by Busch in Germany. Busch was a well-known German optical manufacturer based in Rathenow.
This style of binocular dates from the early 20th century, most likely around the 1900s to 1910s, and is typical of the quality continental prism binoculars imported into Britain during that period.
The objective lenses measure approximately 30 mm in diameter. The magnification is not marked, but based on the known Busch Sollux range and the 30 mm objectives, these are most likely approximately 6×30.
The binoculars retain their original-style leather covering and leather neck strap. They show considerable age-related cosmetic wear, including rubbing, surface wear to the leather covering and black finish, oxidation/patina and general marks consistent with an item of this age.
The optics are intact and clean, and the binoculars still produce a clear image for their age. The central focusing mechanism and eyepiece diopter adjustment operate well.
A very interesting early German-made optical instrument with British retailer markings, suitable for collectors of antique binoculars, military-era optics, German optical equipment or early 20th-century scientific instruments.
Main Features:
- Objective lens: 30mm
- Magnification: likely 6x (see above)
- Central focusing
- Diopter adjustment at the right eyepiece
- Size (when closed): 165mm (W) x 105mm (H) x 48mm (D)
- Weight: 610 g
- Leather neck strap attached
