WW1 Imperial Prussian Army Scherenfernrohr – S.F. 14 TRENCH PERISCOPE – NORMANDY

You are bidding on a NICE used example of WW1 Imperial Prussian Army Selbstfahrlafetten-Zielfernrohr S.F. 14. G 8×10 Sighting Trench Periscope! This was brought back by a US Serviceman who captured it after the D-Day landings.

In 1894, Carl Zeiss introduced a new and unusual type of prism binocular.  Zeiss called its invention the Scherenfernrohr (scissors telescope) – an 8 x 10 power device fitted with adjustable twin periscopic extensions connected by a hinge. An observer could position the tubular “ears” upright and parallel to each other or splayed out horizontally for greater depth perception (stereoscopic vision), causing objects to appear in modelled relief, strongly distinct from the background and thus estimate the range.  This hybrid between binoculars and a periscope enabled the observer to remain safely concealed in dug-outs, behind walls or even tree trunks with only the objective lens visible to the enemy.

It was to be used for: Observation and reconnaissance; Measuring angles of azimuth; Measuring angles of site and elevation; Measuring height of shell bursts; Establishing safety zones for advancing friendly troops; and to lay field guns.

After the war, it was developed into the S.F. 14 Z Rabbit Ear, which can be found quite easily, as they were made in high numbers.

Made of aluminum, brass, and steel, by C.P. Goerz, Berlin, this aiming periscope was manufactured in July of 1918. Though it is missing the tripod mount, it still retains approx. 95% of the original wartime paint and finish, and is VERY solid! Some damage on the sun shields, as well as the bakelite eye pieces. The optics are out of alignment, and a bit hazy, so they will need to be cleaned. All focus adjustment still turn freely. The data information is stamped into the top, indicating:

C.P. GOERZ BERLIN
SF 14 G   *
8912
VIII. 18.

This was used in WW2, as it was brought back by a US Serviceman just after the D-Day landings. It features a tag indicating, “D-Day – Ray Crossland”. Various marks and wear throughout, as well as some missing screws. Needs some TLC to bring it back to its original condition. I have shown the EXACT type in use in the last photo. Would make a PERFECT addition to any collection or display!