WW2 German Kriegsmarine 7x50 LEITZ U-BOAT / U-BOOT ARMORED BINOCULARS NICE
This distinctive rubber-armored pattern was produced for German Navy and was particularly well suited for use aboard U-Boats and surface vessels, where the heavy protective covering helped shield the binoculars from impacts and the demanding conditions encountered at sea. The 7x50 configuration became one of the standard optical formats used by the Kriegsmarine because its combination of seven-power magnification and large 50 mm objective lenses provided an excellent balance of magnification, light-gathering ability, and field of view. German naval binoculars were produced by several major optical manufacturers, including Ernst Leitz of Wetzlar, which used the wartime code beh. Their rugged construction and excellent optical performance made them an important piece of Kriegsmarine observation equipment throughout the war. Made by Ernst Leitz (beh) of aluminum and steel, with original black crackle-finish paint and COMPLETE original rubber armor...
This example is in EXCELLENT used condition! 95% of the original black crackle finish, with only normal scratches, marks and wear from use and age.
The original rubber armor remains complete and presents extremely well, although age-related drying and shrinkage have produced several cracks and splits along with some localized hardening and accumulated surface dirt. There are no dents, damage, corrosion or cracks! Both original individual-focus eyepieces turn smoothly and function correctly, and the center hinge retains proper tension. The original eyecups remain intact, though there is some slight splitting on the rubber.. The objective and ocular lenses are free of cracks, chips, fungus, haze, or separation, and the interior optics are EXCEPTIONALLY clean with virtually no visible internal dust!The binoculars are clearly marked " 7x50 beh " together with serial number " 473934, " identifying manufacture by Ernst Leitz, Wetzlar. Optical clarity is near perfect and among the best I have seen in this pattern, with EXCELLENT brightness and sharpness! They are also in PERFECT collimation! A neck strap is included and appears period, although is not believed to be an original German military-issued strap.
Also included is a correct-pattern Ersatz leather Carrying Case of the type used with these binoculars. The case is unmarked and carries no visible German maker or acceptance markings, its front closure clasp has been replaced, and the rear belt-carrying straps are broken or missing. The binoculars themselves would benefit from a careful exterior cleaning but have intentionally been left as found. Overall this is an EXCELLENT and highly complete example of a classic Kriegsmarine 7x50 rubber-armored naval binocular, with exceptional optics and strong original finish, PERFECT for any WW2 German Kriegsmarine, U-Boat, naval optics, or military binocular collection or display!