Vintage Military Field Glasses (Army & Navy Engraved)
This is a pair of vintage military field glasses, likely from the early 20th century, consistent with the reported 'Army & Navy' engraving and overall design that precedes more modern prism binoculars. The binoculars measure approximately 6 inches in height and 5 inches in width. They are constructed primarily of metal, strongly suggesting brass or a similar durable alloy, which originally featured a dark painted or blued finish. This finish has largely degraded, revealing the tarnished metallic surface underneath. The optical components consist of glass lenses, which appear to be intact, though their clarity cannot be fully assessed from the image. The construction is robust, featuring two primary barrels connected by a central hinge and a visible focusing mechanism. Observable condition issues include significant wear to the original dark finish, particularly on the cylindrical barrels and the eyepiece components, where the underlying metal is broadly exposed. This exposure shows signs of age-appropriate patina, light rust, scratches, and nicks across the metallic surfaces, indicating extensive use over time. The eyecups, seemingly made of leather or hard rubber, exhibit considerable deterioration, appearing brittle, chipped, and worn down. Despite these cosmetic imperfections, the central focusing knob is present and appears to be operated by a knurled disc, suggesting a traditional open-bridge design. The engraving 'ARMY & NAVY' is clearly visible on one of the barrels, serving as a significant identifier of its likely intended purpose and era. The overall impression is one of sturdy, functional design built for demanding conditions, typical of military-grade equipment from its period. The craftsmanship reflects industrial manufacturing, prioritizing durability and utility over elaborate aesthetics. The fact that they are reported as 'fully functioning and work perfectly' despite their cosmetic wear speaks to the underlying quality and robust engineering of their original construction.
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Estimated Value
$120-180
Basic Information
Category
Optical Instruments
Appraised On
August 28, 2025
Estimated Value
$120-180
Additional Details Provided By Owner
User Provided Information
Item(s): Binoculars, military field glasses Dimensions: 6" H x 5" W Weight: Artist: Brand: Model: Serial Number: Markers: "ARMY & NAVY" engraved on the barrels. Materials: Metal, likely brass or a similar alloy, with a dark painted or blued finish. Glass lenses. Style: Vintage military equipment Condition: Fair, consistent with age and use. Damage: Significant wear to the finish, revealing the underlying metal. Scratches, nicks, and some rust or patina are visible on the metal parts. The leather or rubber on the eyecups appears to be brittle and chipped. Provenance: Family inheritance Where was item acquired: Date of Acquisition: Documentations of Authenticity: N List of Documents: Has item undergone repairs? No - all original materials Other information: Fully functioning and works perfectly, despite cosmetic wear.
Item Description
This is a pair of vintage military field glasses, likely from the early 20th century, consistent with the reported 'Army & Navy' engraving and overall design that precedes more modern prism binoculars. The binoculars measure approximately 6 inches in height and 5 inches in width. They are constructed primarily of metal, strongly suggesting brass or a similar durable alloy, which originally featured a dark painted or blued finish. This finish has largely degraded, revealing the tarnished metallic surface underneath. The optical components consist of glass lenses, which appear to be intact, though their clarity cannot be fully assessed from the image. The construction is robust, featuring two primary barrels connected by a central hinge and a visible focusing mechanism. Observable condition issues include significant wear to the original dark finish, particularly on the cylindrical barrels and the eyepiece components, where the underlying metal is broadly exposed. This exposure shows signs of age-appropriate patina, light rust, scratches, and nicks across the metallic surfaces, indicating extensive use over time. The eyecups, seemingly made of leather or hard rubber, exhibit considerable deterioration, appearing brittle, chipped, and worn down. Despite these cosmetic imperfections, the central focusing knob is present and appears to be operated by a knurled disc, suggesting a traditional open-bridge design. The engraving 'ARMY & NAVY' is clearly visible on one of the barrels, serving as a significant identifier of its likely intended purpose and era. The overall impression is one of sturdy, functional design built for demanding conditions, typical of military-grade equipment from its period. The craftsmanship reflects industrial manufacturing, prioritizing durability and utility over elaborate aesthetics. The fact that they are reported as 'fully functioning and work perfectly' despite their cosmetic wear speaks to the underlying quality and robust engineering of their original construction.
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