WW1 Aitchison London 8x Binoculars with Original Leather Case

Description

A fine example of early 20th-century British craftsmanship — this pair of Aitchison London 8x binoculars comes complete with its original leather case and strap.

These compact binoculars feature the distinctive black enamel finish and leatherette body covering typical of pre-war Aitchison optical instruments. The focusing wheel operates smoothly, and internal lenses and prisms have been cleaned where accessible, providing clear viewing for their age.

Features:

• Maker: Aitchison & Co. Ltd., London

• Magnification: 8x

• Origin: United Kingdom

• Period: Circa 1915–1930 (Aitchison produced field glasses for both civilian and military use during WWI and interwar years)

• Material: Brass body with black enamel finish and leather covering

Dimensions:

• Width: 95 mm
• Height: 110 mm
• Depth: 45 mm
• Fixed IPD (Interpupillary distance): approx. 65 mm
• Weight: ~350 g

Condition:

• Good vintage condition with some paint, leather covering and edge wear consistent with age and use

• Internal lenses and prisms have been cleaned where accessible. The binoculars achieves clear images

• Smooth focusing mechanism

• Leather case intact, with moderate age-related wear and patina

Historical Context:

Aitchison & Co., established in London in the late 19th century, was a prestigious maker of optical instruments, field glasses, and spectacles. They merged with Dollond in 1927 to form Dollond & Aitchison, one of Britain’s most famous optical firms. This model likely dates from the WWI to early interwar period (c.1915–1930), just before the merger.