Description
This binocular style aiming gunsight represents a top performing example in the development of Zeiss optics. Its special design made it extremely durable for the rough conditions present while at sea. The B.Z. schr. E.C/1A (Binokulares Zielfernrohr mit Schragem Einblick C/1A) 5x/10x, with 45 degree oculars was used exclusively on large German warships (equipped with the 10.5cm gun) for direct fire at at land and sea targets. This variant was mounted of either the left or right side of the gun. The optical parts are specially embedded in the housing to withstand the strong vibrations from the recoil of the gun. The magnification is “5 x 14 / 10 x 70”, which indicates 5x and 10x magnification with 70 mm lenses. The field of view at 5x magnification is 14 ° = 245m / 1000m…and at 10x magnification, it is 7 ° = 122m / 1000m. The gunsight is characterized by its high optical performance, especially when used in twilight and at night, and features bellows-shaped, rotatable and internally ventilated rubber eyecups. They are also designed with an extension on the sides as protection against side light from entering. It has a an elaborate wide-angle eyepiece construction, with eyepiece lenses that are mounted on the inside in a resilient metal housing. When focusing, there are two separate knobs that are turned left or right, thus adjusting the focus on each lens. Also features a wheel for adjusting the eye width, with the eye relief indicated in millimeters on a central scale. There is a large knob that adjusts between 5x to 10x magnification, by internally placing a separate lens assembly in front of the 70 mm objective lenses. It has a large padded rubber forehead support for long-lasting, comfortable observation…and a smaller forehead pad when the larger one is moved out of the way.
Made of solid brass, aluminum, and steel, by “blc” (Carl Zeiss Militarabteilung, Jena), and dating around 1943, this 5×70 / 10×70 power Kriegsmarine Gunsight Binocular is in VERY NICE used condition! It retains approx. 90% original paint, with some obvious marks, scratches, and wear due to the age, but noting that detracts. Though these are complete, they will need a cleaning as most of the adjustments are currently frozen. it appears due to storage conditions, that a bit of moisture/dirt has entered the housing, causing the gears and such to not activate when using any of the adjustments. I did not take photos of the optical view, as they are quite foggy with spotting. It is quite a complex way to focus a lens (which is probably why the design was changed later in the war), but all of this should be quite easy to fix/clean. Head pad is present, but has deteriorated over time. Eye cups are replacements. The optic features a variety of options including “Augenabstand” (Pupillary distance) which are activated by turning the knob at the bottom right. The two levers placed at the ends of the eyepieces independently activate the insertion of the two relative reticles. On the upper part of the structure there are two levers useful for inserting the filters, “Farbglas Wechsel”, “T” (Tag = day – yellow filter) and “N” (Nacht = night). Again, all of these features are currently frozen in place, from moisture. The flip-up rain shields are present, which is VERY rare, as they were usually removed post-war. The left side body features the original data plate, showing all information, including the 3-digit code of “blc” (Carl Zeiss), and the KM serial number, “131147“. This was number 122 (out of 150 made), making this one of the last ones that were ever built. Also features a large “T” engraved into the side, indicating that the lenses have an anti-reflective coating. I have shown it in use in the last photos. Though it definitely needs a full cleaning and lubrication, it is still a BEAUTIFULLY engineered optical gunsight with outstanding performance! Would make a PERFECT addition to any collection or display! |
