WW1 Austro-Hungarian Zeiss Doppelfernrohr – M.8/12 Z 15×60 ARTILLERY BINOCULARS

You are bidding on a VERY RARE example of a WW1 Austro-Hungarian M.8/12 Z 15×60 Artillery Observation Binocular, manufactured by Zeiss Károly of Gyor! This long-range military binocular was designed for artillery observation, battlefield ranging, and extended-distance reconnaissance, providing far greater magnification and light-gathering ability than standard field binoculars.

The M.8/12 Z belonged to the family of large Austro-Hungarian observation binoculars developed for artillery and specialist military use before and during WW1. With 15-power magnification and large 60 mm objectives, these instruments allowed observers to identify distant targets, monitor artillery fall, and study battlefield positions from fixed observation points. The heavy optical body incorporated individual focusing eyepieces, extendable sunshades, and an integral mounting arrangement for use with a supporting tripod or observation stand. Examples manufactured by Zeiss Károly, Gyor represent the Hungarian branch of the Zeiss organization and are highly desirable pieces of Austro-Hungarian military optical equipment.

Made of a solid brass, aluminum, and steel by Carl  Zeiss Károly Gyor, this set of M.8/12 Z Binoculars are in VERY GOOD original used condition! The binocular appears to have received an older black repaint at some point in its life, but remains structurally complete with NO major dents, cracks, repairs, corrosion damage, or missing screws! Both original eyecups are complete and undamaged (a couple of tiny chips), the individual focusing mechanisms operate smoothly, and the binocular retains its original extendable sunshades and mounting adapter to fit to a tripod! They are clearly marked:

M.8/12 Z
15 fach mit Skala
Doppelfernrohr
Nr.377667

 The optics are EXCEPTIONALLY clear and sharp with perfect collimation, NO haze, fungus, fogging, or balsam separation. There is one small chip on an internal prism, but it does NOT intrude into the field of view and does not affect optical performance. The binocular incorporates the original side control lever associated with the adjustable reticle mechanism; however, the lever is currently EXTREMELY stiff, and when carefully moved no reticle or scale appears in the right optical channel. I cannot determine whether the reticle was removed at some point, or otherwise just no longer engaging (may need a clean/lubrication). The binocular remains fully usable as an optical instrument and delivers an outstandingly bright, sharp, and properly aligned image. I have shown the EXACT binoculars in use by the Austro-Hungarian Army in the last photos. Would make a SUPERB addition to any collection or display! A VERY RARE and impressive surviving Austro-Hungarian artillery observation binocular and an excellent addition to any advanced WW1, K.u.K., Zeiss, artillery, or military optics collection!